“Finally, brethren, 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.”
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable — if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things — the sevenfold virtue list (alētheia, timē, dikaiē, hagnē, prosphilē, euphēma) and twin summaries (aretē, epainos) orient thought toward the good. 'Think about' (logizomai, calculate, reason toward) shows active mental discipline. Virtue ethics is Stoic-influenced but re-centered on Christ. The thought-life shapes the character.
Church Fathers on Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are honorable, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are just.” What is “Finally”? It stands for, “I have said all.” It is the word of one that is in haste, and has nothing to do with present things.
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS
Publish a reflection on this verse
No reflections on this verse yet. Be the first to write one!