The Epistle to Philippians - Essay Example

First of all, it would be advantageous to see if there are lots of similarities between the above mentioned versions. One might argue that there are many parts of the text that are similar word for word: the very beginning, some parts in the end and many others. However, its interesting to note that there are two words, namely “true” and “pure”, that coincide in the list of what a Christian should think about, while others are not similar at all. Indeed, there are more differences in the two texts than similarities.

For example, NIV says that Paul “pleads” two women to keep their faith strong, while NRSV uses the word “urges”. It is clear that the latter verb has far stronger meaning. Another difference is seen in the words that are used to modify the word “companion”: NIV’s “true” versus NRSV’s “loyal”. One would make no mistake arguing that the former word has some important connotations. The next suitable example is the difference between the phrases “do not be anxious” (NIV) and “do not worry” (NRSV).

From a psychological point of these two states of mind are different. Now it would be important to perform some exegetical analysis. In the very beginning, Paul greets the congregation warmly. Then he encourages them to stand firmly in their faith in Jesus Christ. Afterwards, he calls two names of the women who need extra support since they might be falling from grace; that is why the believers should unite together. The next statement urges the Christians to rejoice in God all the time. The Apostle says that God is near.

That is why the believers should not worry about anything and pray to God all the time, presenting Him with their concerns. In this case the peace of God will come to them. In the end, Paul lists what Christians should think about: these are universally accepted positive values. Finally, he urges all the believers to put into practice their knowledge and enjoy their faith. The passage from this book is related to the New Testament in that sense that it reflects the spreading of Christian Church and tries to reinforce the newly found faith.

It is also related to the Old Testament in that aspect that people should base their life firmly on their faith in God.