Writing the closing to a letter can be a tricky, even agonizing, proposition. One must consider the circumstances or occasion for writing, the pre-existing relationship, and of course, the emotional state of the recipient. These and more elements influence the tone utilized, the words used, and the length of the closing employed. The closing can summarize and lend emphasis to the letter’s content or leave the reader confused and unfulfilled.

Paul concludes possibly his most personal letter in a manner that some might find a bit odd. The history he and the Philippian believers have shared includes the ups and downs of partnering in the gospel. It is not surprising then that the overall tone of the epistle communicates this flock’s special place in Paul’s heart. Yet, unlike his letter to the Romans or his second letter to Timothy, Paul’s concluding words to the Philippians are brief and concise. The conclusion includes very little in the form of an admonition or encouragement. It also lists no one by name. Paul’s closing recorded in Philippians 4:21-23 sounds abrupt and gives the impression of carelessness. But is that a fair characterization? Here are the apostle’s words:

Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar's household. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit!

It is important to note that Paul has incorporated a three-fold greeting into his closing words. Each greeting conveys an essential ingredient in the relationship and partnership the writer shares with his brothers and sisters. First, Paul asks his friends to greet every saint. His request implies a personal greeting to each individual, deliberately communicating value and importance to each believer. Furthermore, Paul tells the Philippian church that the brothers that are with him send their greetings. It is a sweet reminder that each individual is part of a greater whole - a faithful “local” community, which in turn, is part of a “global” spiritual family. What an encouraging greeting that reminds us that a believer is never alone, but a part of a vast and diverse multitude that marches together on a mission. Therefore, it is unnatural for Christians to live in isolation. The final greeting spills out of the previous one. Paul reveals that “All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household. Wow! These words must have been the most reassuring to the Philippian believers, who have experienced their share of persecution and hardship for the gospel’s sake. The power of the gospel has no peer nor equal. Nothing can stop the gospel. Nothing! Whether the opposition comes in the form of earthly totalitarian governments or dark spiritual forces, the good news of the sinless and risen Savior cannot be thwarted. Jesus “disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them” (Col 2:13-15). Even as shackles bound the apostle’s wrists, he proclaims that “the word of God is not bound” (2 Tim 2:9). God’s powerful grace is truly amazing!

And that is exactly how Paul concludes his farewell. He writes, “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit” (Phil 4:23). God’s grace saved us, freeing us from sin and making us new. But the grace Paul is speaking of in his closing words is the grace that carries us through every day and from one moment to the next - it enables and sustains us. It actively empowers us to live the life that God called us to and nourishes our inner spiritual life so we can do so victoriously. Paul gives his dear friends confidence in the gospel and in their Savior. His words sound similar to the words of the writer of Hebrews, who tells his readers to “... Consider Him who endured from sinners such hostility against Himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted” (Heb 12:1-3).

Every true follower of Christ is part of a glorious community that spans time and space. We need each other - bound together through Jesus, who is our Savior and Joy. What a sweet union we have been baptized into! May our common bond in Christ and the power of His grace catapult us into our families, neighborhoods, places of work, and even nations around the world so that the light of the gospel might reach the places it has not yet illuminated!

Titus 2:11-14 (ESV) - For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.