Philippians 4:2 I exhort Euodia, and I exhort Syntyche, to think the same way in the Lord. 3 Yes, I beg you also, true partner, help these women, for they labored with me in the Good News with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.
We can't be sure what "to think the same way in the Lord" means. Possibly a doctrinal disagreement, but, if that were the case, it seems likely that Paul would have judged one of them to be correct, and the other not so. Perhaps thinking the same way in the Lord refers to what might be considered, compared to doctrine, trivial matters: when to hold the service, and where; who is responsible for various duties; what should be worn; what color the carpet should be; are children allowed in the meeting; what songs to sing. Sound familiar? Perhaps the two had a disagreement over something that the 21st Century church doesn't even think about. But the 21st Century church does have disagreements, some over doctrine, and some over other matters, such as those suggested. The main thrust of Paul's admonishment is that Euodia and Syntyche "think the same way," or, possibly, that they don't, but don't let disagreement mar their fellowship, their service, or harm the church as a whole.
We aren't sure who Paul's "true partner" is.
Thanks for reading.
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