Section 10
saints, or the work, we are actually giving to God Himself and to His concern, His economy.
The matter of giving and receiving in the way described in Philippians 4 is not a matter of nat ural generosity, of donating something out of a willingness to sacrifice. No, what is described here is an actual experience of Christ. If we give according to Paul's word, we give not in our selves, but in Christ. When our gift is presented in Christ and through Christ, it becomes some thing of life that blossoms. Furthermore, it be comes a sweet odor, a sacrifice well-pleasing to God. This will cause God's glory to be manifested to us. This is the experience of Christ in giving material things for the Lord's interest.
GLORY TO OUR GOD AND FATHER
FOREVER AND EVER
Paul concludes this portion of Philippians with the words, "Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen" (Phil. 4:20). Notice that in this verse Paul speaks of "our God and Father." This indicates that God is not only the apostle's God, but also the believers' God.
To our God and Father is the glory forever and ever. As we have indicated, glory is God ex pressed in His splendor and excellency for our