Philippians 4:2

Beseech. Gr. parakaleo, “to exhort” (see on Matt. 5:4). The word is repeated to show that Paul exhorts each of the two church members separately, and may imply that both were at fault. But he makes no distinction as to who was right or who was wrong in this case. Today, in cases where church members are at variance, each should seek reconciliation with the other, without waiting for the other to take the initiative (see on Matt. 18:15).

Euodias. Rather, “Euodia,” meaning “prosperous journey.” Both Euodia and Syntyche are feminine Greek names. For the prominence of women in the Macedonian church see on Acts 16:13; 17:4, 12.

Syntyche. Gr. Syntyche, from suntungchano, “to meet with,” hence meaning, perhaps, “pleasant acquaintance.”

Of the same mind. It appears that there was a difference of opinion between Euodia and Syntyche, but we are not informed as to the cause of the contention. It may not have been an important matter so far as the church as a whole was concerned, but even a small problem in a peaceful and orderly community becomes disturbing to the group. So Paul applies the admonition given earlier in the letter (see on ch. 2:2). Again the idea of “in the Lord” is introduced. If each were like-minded with Christ, each would be in harmony with the other. Spiritual union with Christ is the remedy for the church’s ills.