What does "learned and received" in Philippians 4:9 imply about discipleship? Verse Snapshot “The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:9) Key Words: “Learned” and “Received” • Learned (Greek emanthate): to be taught, instructed, come to understand • Received (Greek parelabete): to accept, take to oneself, welcome as one’s own What “Learned” Reveals About Discipleship • Intentional instruction—Paul had systematically taught truth (Acts 20:20). • Ongoing growth—disciples keep learning; knowledge of Christ never plateaus (2 Peter 3:18). • Mind renewal—a new worldview replaces old patterns (Romans 12:2). • Obedience-oriented teaching—Paul’s aim was “teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ” (Colossians 1:28). What “Received” Reveals About Discipleship • Personal ownership—truth must move from teacher’s lips to disciple’s heart (1 Thessalonians 2:13). • Faith-filled embrace—receiving involves trust, not mere assent (John 1:12). • Submission to authority—“received” signals willingness to live under apostolic doctrine (Acts 2:42). • Guarded deposit—believers steward the message carefully (2 Timothy 1:13-14). The Integrated Model: Learning and Receiving Together • Discipleship is incomplete when knowledge is not embraced; it is sterile when zeal lacks sound teaching. • Paul binds the two actions so the gospel shapes both intellect and will. • The sequence—learn, receive, practice—shows discipleship as a pipeline: information ➜ conviction ➜ imitation ➜ divine peace. Practical Takeaways for Discipleship Today • Prioritize both Bible study and humble acceptance of its authority. • Sit under faithful teachers, but also internalize truth in prayerful meditation. • Measure growth not only by what you know, but by what you have gladly taken to heart and obeyed. • Reproduce the pattern: teach others so they can learn and receive, forming a chain of disciples (2 Timothy 2:2). Supporting Scriptures • Colossians 2:6 – “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in Him.” • 2 Timothy 3:14 – “But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of.” • James 1:21-22 – “Receive with meekness the implanted word…be doers of the word.” • John 13:17 – “If you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” |
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