Paul’s letter to the Philippians provides practical advice for living a Christian life, including an exhortation to focus our thoughts on things that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise (Philippians 4:8). The phrase “of good report” appears in this verse and refers to things that have a good reputation and reflect well on the Christian faith.
The Broader Context of Philippians 4:8
To understand this phrase, it is helpful to look at the broader context of Philippians 4. In this chapter, Paul encourages the believers in Philippi to stand firm in the Lord (v. 1), live in harmony with each other (v. 2), rejoice in the Lord always (v. 4), be gentle to all people (v.5), avoid anxiety through prayer and thanksgiving (v. 6), and fill their minds with godly virtues (vv. 8-9).
In the midst of this practical advice for Christian living, Paul exhorts the Philippians: “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (v. 8).
The virtues listed reflect godly characteristics that honor Christ and benefit others. By filling their minds with such noble thoughts, the believers’ conduct and attitudes would also reflect the light of Christ.
Meaning of “Of Good Report”
In the midst of this list of virtues, Paul includes the phrase “of good report.” The Greek word is euphemos, which combines eu meaning “good” and phemi meaning “speaking.” Thus, it refers to something spoken of favorably, having a good reputation, or deemed praiseworthy.
The King James Version translates this phrase as “of good report.” Other translations render it as:
– “admirable” (NIV)
– “commendable” (ESV, NASB)
– “of good repute” (NRSV)
– “highly spoken of” (NET)
So this phrase conveys the idea of focusing our thoughts on virtues and qualities that have earned positive acclaim and reflect well on the Christian faith and its high moral standards.
Examples of Things “Of Good Report”
Based on the context of Philippians 4 and other New Testament teachings, what might be some examples of things “of good report” that Paul is exhorting believers to dwell on?
– Displays of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
– Acts of compassion and care for those in need (Matthew 25:34-40).
– Esteeming others above oneself and looking to their interests (Philippians 2:3-4).
– Forgiving those who have wronged you (Colossians 3:13).
– Giving generously to advance God’s work (2 Corinthians 9:6-15).
– Praying diligently for others (Ephesians 6:18).
– Proclaiming the gospel with courage and conviction (Philippians 1:14).
– Teaching sound doctrine with grace and humility (Titus 2:7-8).
– Administering justice fairly and impartially (Leviticus 19:15).
– Conducting business with integrity and honesty (Psalm 15:1-5).
– Developing skills and talents to the glory of God (Matthew 25:14-30).
– Creating works of art that reflect truth, beauty and creativity (Exodus 31:1-11).
– Discovery of scientific truths that reveal God’s majesty (Psalm 19:1).
As this sampling demonstrates, many constructive thoughts and activities could fit Paul’s admonition of focusing on whatever is “of good report.” Such virtuous thinking benefits the believer and makes the gospel attractive to others.
A Guard Against Impurity and Immorality
Dwelling on what is “of good report” is part of a broader exhortation by Paul to think on what is morally excellent. This guards the believer’s mind against impurity, lust, greed, and other vices that dishonor God. Paul wrote similar admonitions, such as:
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind” (Romans 12:2).
“Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them” (Ephesians 5:11).
“Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Philippians 4:8).
Fixating our thoughts on what is “of good report” is an essential part of pursuing holiness and guarding against temptation. If we fill our minds with what is ignoble and degrading, eventually our conduct will follow. But saturating our minds with what is morally excellent will reinforce righteousness in our lives.
A Contrast to Gossip and Slander
Thinking on what is “of good report” also implies avoiding harmful speech about others. Gossip, backbiting, slander and false accusations all originate from impure thoughts. They assassinate reputations and breed distrust.
So by emphasizing what is “of good report,” Paul implicitly cautions against gossip, rumors, and thoughtless speech that tears down others’ credibility and reputations. As he wrote in another letter:
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear” (Ephesians 4:29).
Cultivating a Spirit of Gratitude and Praise
Dwelling on what is “of good report” cultivates a spirit of gratitude and praise toward God. When our minds affirm all that is morally excellent, admirable and praiseworthy, it directs our focus to the Giver of every good gift (James 1:17).
Paul hints at this connection when he continues in Philippians 4:9, “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me – practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”
As believers put into practice Paul’s admonition to focus on the virtuous, commendable and praiseworthy, they simultaneously draw nearer to God who epitomizes moral perfection.
A Guard Against Cynicism and Pessimism
In a world filled with bad news and negativity, meditating on what is “of good report” counters our tendency toward cynicism and pessimism. It guards against a critical spirit that sees only the worst in people and situations.
Choosing to notice what is right, noble and admirable – though imperfect – develops an attitude of wisdom, grace and optimism. With eyes open to both good and evil in the world, the believer can then pursue the former while redeeming the latter.
Cultivating Thankfulness and Contentment
By focusing our thoughts on what is excellent and praiseworthy, we cultivate greater thankfulness and contentment. The apostle Paul knew the secret of maintaining joy and peace in every situation:
“…I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need” (Philippians 4:11-12).
The antidote to discontentment is developing eyes to see God’s goodness and grace at work, even in the midst of hardship. What is “of good report” directs our focus to where it should be.
Strengthening Our Resolve to Live Righteously
Finally, training our minds to dwell on what is morally excellent strengthens our resolve to live righteously. Though bombarded with ungodly influences, the believer focused on what is “of good report” will increasingly manifest excellence in their own life. As Paul wrote:
“Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:8-9).
The virtues we fixate on have a way of shaping our lives into their likeness.
Conclusion
In summary, Paul’s admonition to dwell on what is “of good report” challenges believers to fix their minds on what is morally excellent, admirable and praiseworthy. This fills our thoughts with goodness and guards against impurity, gossip and cynicism. It cultivates thankfulness, contentment and righteousness within. Lastly, it directs our gaze toward the supreme God, the giver of every good and perfect gift. Christians who heed this wise advice will walk in greater joy, peace and hope.
