Paul is writing to the church at Philippi, a gathering of believers which (as we have mentioned earlier in our 10/2 Grow) probably began with the conversion of Lydia (Acts 16:12-14). Paul has a history with these people. What is his attitude in verse 1? What is going on between Euodia and Syntyche? Who does Paul invite to help out? According to verse 3, what is the history of these two women?
Paul and all the believers in Philippi may have had a good relationship when he last saw them, but a dispute seems to have come up. It is clear from what is being stated that dissension has broken out between the two women Euodia and Syntyche. What that dispute is can not be determined, but it must be large enough that it is worth mentioning in a letter from Paul.
Is it possible this disagreement between these women is splitting the church? After all, Paul has encouraged the others in the church to help them resolve their differences. And apparently these are important people, because they have a history with Paul contending at his side for the sake of the gospel.
Well, I would say that it doesn’t matter who these two are or what the disagreement is. Paul urges them to agree “in the Lord.” What could that mean? Agreeing in the Lord could mean that although they may disagree on certain specifics, they agree in that they believe the same things, desire the same success for the church, and they both accept the same Savior.
It could also be a plea from Paul that they learn to agree so that the kingdom of the Lord may be furthered and not hindered.
Regardless, it is important for Christians to learn to agree or disagree in the Lord. It is essential that if an area of contention should arise, we should not allow our disagreement to grow into a dispute, a fight, or any rift where hatred and anger enter in.
We do not have to agree with every aspect of all our Christian brothers and sisters, but we do need to agree to accept one another, love one another, be joyful with one another, and be at peace with one another. Differences between Christians need to find a common ground, be resolved, and be accepted so that peace and love will prevail.
DAILY CHALLENGE: Is there a fellow Christians with whom you disagree? Can you find the common ground you both agree on?
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