Philippians 4:9

KJV

Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

KJV (with Strong's)

Those things {G5023}, which {G3739} ye have {G3129} both {G2532} learned {G3129}, and {G2532} received {G3880}, and {G2532} heard {G191}, and {G2532} seen {G1492} in {G1722} me {G1698}, do {G4238}: and {G2532} the God {G2316} of peace {G1515} shall be {G2071} with {G3326} you {G5216}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Keep doing what you have learned and received from me, what you have heard and seen me doing; then the God who gives shalom will be with you.

Berean Standard Bible

Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me, put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

American Standard Version

The things which ye both learned and received and heard and saw in me, these things do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Philippians 4:9 serves as a profound capstone to Paul's practical exhortations, urging believers to embody the Christian principles they have learned, received, heard, and observed in his own life. It presents a clear call to active obedience and practical application of faith, promising that such a life lived in accordance with God's revealed will will result in the tangible and abiding presence of the "God of peace." This verse underscores the inseparable link between virtuous living and experiencing divine tranquility.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse acts as the culminating exhortation in a section of Paul's letter focused on practical Christian living, particularly concerning inner disposition and outward conduct. Immediately preceding it, Paul encourages the Philippians to cultivate a spirit of prayer and supplication, assuring them that "the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" ([Philippians 4:6-7](/philippians/4-6-7 "Philippians 4:6-7 - Peace through Prayer")). This promise of peace is then followed by a powerful directive to focus their thoughts on "whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things" ([Philippians 4:8](/philippians/4-8 "Philippians 4:8 - Virtuous Thinking")). Philippians 4:9 then transitions from the internal realm of thought and prayer to the external realm of action, calling them to "do" these things, grounding their practice in Paul's own lived example. It moves from thinking rightly to living rightly, with the ultimate promise of God's presence.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote the letter to the Philippians from prison, likely in Rome, around A.D. 60-62. The Philippian church was unique among Paul's congregations for its consistent financial and prayerful support, indicating a deep, affectionate relationship. Philippi was a Roman colony, and its citizens would have been familiar with the concept of *Pax Romana*, the Roman peace enforced by imperial power. Paul's emphasis on the "God of peace" would have contrasted sharply with this worldly peace, offering a divine peace that transcends external circumstances, rooted in God's character and presence. The church itself faced external persecution and internal disagreements (as hinted at in [Philippians 4:2](/philippians/4-2 "Philippians 4:2 - Euodia and Syntyche")), making Paul's call to unity, virtuous living, and the experience of God's peace particularly relevant and urgent for their community.

* **Key Themes:** Philippians 4:9 contributes significantly to several major themes within the letter and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Imitation and Discipleship**, where Paul presents himself as a tangible, living example of the Christian life, inviting believers to follow his pattern. This is a recurring theme in Paul's letters, emphasizing that faith is not merely intellectual assent but a transformative way of life. Secondly, the verse underscores **Practical Obedience and Application**, moving beyond mere theological understanding to the active "doing" of God's will. It asserts that genuine faith is demonstrated through consistent, virtuous conduct. Finally, it reinforces the theme of **Divine Presence and Peace**, portraying God not just as a giver of peace, but as the very source and essence of peace, whose abiding presence is the ultimate reward for a life of obedient faith. This peace is distinct from worldly tranquility, being a supernatural gift that guards the heart and mind.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **seen (Greek, _eídō_):** This verb, often used in past tenses, primarily means "to see" literally or figuratively. By implication, especially in the perfect tense, it can mean "to know" or "to be aware." In this context, it emphasizes that the Philippians had not only heard Paul's teachings but had also visually observed his life and conduct, gaining a deep, experiential knowledge of the principles he espoused. It signifies a comprehensive understanding derived from personal witness.
* **do (Greek, _prássō_):** This primary verb means "to practice," implying repeated or habitual action, differing from *poiéō* which often refers to a single act. It signifies performing continuously or habitually, executing, or accomplishing. Here, it is a command for the Philippians to consistently and habitually put into practice the truths they have absorbed from Paul's teaching and example, emphasizing that Christian faith is an active, ongoing way of life, not merely a passive reception of information.
* **peace (Greek, _eirḗnē_):** Probably from a primary verb meaning "to join," this word signifies "peace" literally or figuratively, and by implication, "prosperity." It encompasses a state of tranquility, harmony, and well-being. When used in the phrase "God of peace," it highlights God as the ultimate source, author, and embodiment of true peace, a peace that brings wholeness and rest, distinct from the world's fleeting tranquility.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do:"** This opening clause serves as a powerful imperative, urging the Philippians to put into practice the comprehensive instruction they had received from Paul. The four verbs—"learned" (referring to formal instruction), "received" (implying tradition or doctrine handed down), "heard" (pointing to his preaching), and "seen" (referring to his practical conduct and living example)—form a rhetorical crescendo, emphasizing the thoroughness and multi-faceted nature of Paul's pedagogical approach. The phrase "in me" highlights Paul as the living embodiment of these teachings, making his life a tangible model for their imitation. The command "do" (Greek: *prássō*) is crucial, demanding not just intellectual assent but consistent, habitual action and practical application of these truths in their daily lives.
* **"and the God of peace shall be with you."** This second clause presents the profound promise and consequence of their obedience. The "God of peace" is a significant theological title, identifying God not merely as one who grants peace, but as the very source, essence, and author of all true peace. His presence is the ultimate blessing for those who align their lives with His will. This promise implies not just an emotional state of tranquility, but the active, abiding presence of God Himself, bringing with Him all the benefits of His character—security, comfort, and stability—regardless of external circumstances. It is a divine companionship that provides ultimate tranquility.

#### Literary Devices
Philippians 4:9 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. The most prominent is **Parallelism** and **Climax** in the series of four verbs: "learned, received, heard, and seen." This progression moves from intellectual acquisition to experiential observation, creating a comprehensive and intensifying description of how the Philippians had absorbed Paul's teaching and example. This also functions as a form of **Ethos**, where Paul leverages his credibility and lived integrity as a spiritual mentor. The verse then employs **Imperative Mood** with the command "do," directly calling for action and emphasizing the practical, volitional aspect of faith. Finally, the verse concludes with a **Conditional Promise** ("do: and the God of peace shall be with you"), establishing a clear cause-and-effect relationship between obedient living and the experience of God's abiding presence and peace.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Philippians 4:9 profoundly connects the practical outworking of faith with the very nature and presence of God. It teaches that true spiritual formation is not passive but requires active engagement with the truths of the Gospel, exemplified by godly leaders. The promise of the "God of peace" being "with you" signifies that divine presence is not merely a comforting feeling but a dynamic reality experienced in the context of obedience. This peace is holistic, encompassing spiritual, emotional, and relational well-being, and it flows directly from the character of God Himself, who is the ultimate source of all shalom. It underscores that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the active presence of God's reconciling and ordering power in one's life.

* [1 Corinthians 11:1](/1_corinthians/11-1 "1 Corinthians 11:1 - Imitate Paul")
* [Romans 15:33](/romans/15-33 "Romans 15:33 - The God of Peace")
* [James 1:22](/james/1-22 "James 1:22 - Doers of the Word")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Philippians 4:9 offers timeless and profoundly practical guidance for every believer. It calls us to a holistic discipleship where our intellectual understanding of truth, our reception of doctrine, our hearing of God's Word, and our observation of godly examples are not ends in themselves, but catalysts for action. We are challenged to move beyond mere contemplation to consistent, habitual practice of the virtues and principles of Christ. This means actively seeking out and imitating those who genuinely embody Christ-like character, and simultaneously striving to be such an example for others. The incredible promise attached to this obedience is not just a feeling of peace, but the very presence of the "God of peace." When we align our lives with His revealed will, we invite His intimate companionship, experiencing a profound sense of His nearness, His comfort, and His abiding peace, regardless of external circumstances. This divine presence is the ultimate assurance and blessing for a life lived in devoted obedience.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life are you being called to "do" what you have "learned, received, heard, and seen" from godly examples and God's Word?**
* **Who are the "Pauls" in your life—those whose example you can genuinely imitate in their walk with Christ? How are you actively learning from them?**
* **How does the promise of "the God of peace shall be with you" motivate or challenge your commitment to practical obedience?**
* **What does it mean for you, practically, to experience the "presence of the God of peace" in your daily life?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Paul's emphasis on "in me" in this verse?**

Answer: Paul's emphasis on "in me" is profoundly significant because it highlights his role as a living, tangible example of the Christian principles he taught. It moves beyond abstract theology to embodied discipleship. The Philippians had not only received Paul's verbal instruction ("learned," "heard") and doctrinal transmission ("received"), but they had also "seen" these truths lived out consistently in his own life, even amidst suffering and imprisonment. This personal demonstration provided a powerful, credible model for their own conduct. It underscores that genuine faith is not just about intellectual assent or theoretical knowledge, but about practical, observable transformation. Paul's life served as a concrete illustration of how the virtues he listed in [Philippians 4:8](/philippians/4-8 "Philippians 4:8 - Virtuous Thinking") could be lived out, making his exhortation to "do" these things all the more compelling and achievable.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Paul presents himself as an exemplary model in Philippians 4:9, the ultimate fulfillment of this call to imitation and the promise of divine presence is found in Jesus Christ. Paul's life was a reflection, albeit imperfect, of Christ's perfect obedience and peace. Jesus Himself is the ultimate example of one who perfectly "learned, received, heard, and seen" the Father's will, and flawlessly "did" it, even to the point of death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility")). He is the embodiment of peace, the "Prince of Peace" ([Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - The Prince of Peace")), who declared, "My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you" ([John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Christ's Peace")). Believers are called to imitate Christ ([1 Peter 2:21](/1_peter/2-21 "1 Peter 2:21 - Christ Our Example")), to walk as He walked, empowered by the Holy Spirit, who produces the "fruit of the Spirit," including peace ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - Fruit of the Spirit")). Thus, the "God of peace" who is "with you" is ultimately the triune God, whose presence is mediated through Christ and sustained by the indwelling Spirit, enabling believers to live out the virtuous life exemplified by Paul, and supremely, by Jesus Christ Himself.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

James 1:22

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

Philippians 3:17

¶ Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.

2 Peter 1:10

Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:

1 Thessalonians 4:1

¶ Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort [you] by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, [so] ye would abound more and more.

1 Thessalonians 4:8

He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy Spirit.

John 13:17

If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

Romans 16:20

And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. Amen.