The reference to Euodia and Syntyche is a practical example of those things that may threaten unity within in the community of faith. What we know is that these women were at odds with each other, and the dispute between them had stained the Church, polarizing the saints as they took sides.
What the difference was between these women is not important. We presume that it wasn’t a matter of doctrine. And many divisions between Christians have less to do with doctrine and more to do with other things.
Regardless, Paul appeals to these women to agree in the Lord. Paul is saying that they should find agreement in the fundamentals of the faith, the simple Gospel message. Surely all Christians should agree that all are sinners, separated from God and deserving of God’s eternal wrath, and are saved only by faith in the atoning work of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary. Believers may not agree on the incidentals, but they should agree on the fundamentals.
Then, we are given keys to preventing disharmony in the Church. First, celebrate. Euodia and Syntyche had lost their first love and had become sour. Reveling in the Lord is a safeguard. Joyful people are not at each other’s throats; unhappy people often are, as we see repeatedly illustrated in human history.
Then, employ gentleness. The emphasis of these words seems to be on one’s resolution and perseverance. Paul is hoping for a willingness to change one’s course. Christians should be filled with joy, even amid trials, and they should have an eagerness to forgive that dissipates anger and avoids strife.
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