At the end of the short four chapter book of Philippians, Paul asks the members of the congregation to encourage Euodias and Syntyche to reconcile their differences. Although it isn’t known exactly what that difference concerned, like many Christians today, they caused problems through their disagreement. Not only did the situation cause possible rifts in the congregation at Philipi, but it showed nonbelievers a bad example.
How often Christians get distracted with petty differences and discourage seekers from becoming believers. That kind of behavior was active in the early church as well as now – 2000 years after Christ set the example. Paul’s counsel is as relevant today as it was then.
Don’t be too quick to consider this is a message only for women. Unfortunately, men suffer from the same temptations and disagreements. As the body of Christ, believers are asked to love one another and encourage one another. If people are distracted with personal issues and disagreements, Paul teaches that the matter needs to be settled.
Being a Christian is not only about believing in Christ, but is also about reconciliation. Jesus Christ came and sacrificed for mankind so that we could be reconciled to God the Father. Euodias and Syntyche are mentioned in Paul’s letter as examples of how people are not supposed to act.
The Bible reveals stories and circumstances of all kinds that can teach people the right way to live and shows examples of ways not to live. Each time people commit sinful acts the example is followed by the consequences that they suffered. Although in this letter the consequences of the relationship between the two women are not spelled out, Paul is encouraging them to reconcile.
The apostle Paul shares that both women have labored in the gospel. The letter entreats all believers to be of one mind. The women are also said to be in the book of life, indicating they were believers in Christ.
Paul wrote, “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” Philippians 4: 8. This is a message to all men and women to rise above petty differences and keep their eyes on Jesus Christ.
Many people think that women in the Bible are pictured as second class citizens but this example shows that women have been leaders in the faith since the early church. They represent examples and lessons to be learned for everyone.
