“I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.”

Philippians 4:2-3

Unfortunately we are taught that these two Christian women were arguing about something. We are not told what they were discussing, or what the dispute was about, but it wasn’t the price of fish! Perhaps there was a point of theological importance, which had bearing on their serve for God. Perhaps one had made a lifestyle choice that the other thought was ungodly. We don’t know.

The way women are presented in the Scripture, is not the same as from the pulpit. There are many stereotyped ideas about how all women are and women, as a gender, are presented, too often, in a derogatory way. This prejudice has a toll on the lives of women, and many pay a high price in their health and well being, because of this attitude. The unjust nature of this way of thinking, should be put right.

These women, in Philippi, are asked to have the same mind of Christ, which we all must have. A mind of humility, and preferring the other person before ourselves. We seek peace with each other, and fairness in all our dealings.

The Apostle tells us that Euodia and Syntyche, fought for the truth of the Word of God, with him and beside Him. Not under him or watched over or managed by him, but as equal co-workers in the work of God. They were right up there with Paul, on the front line. Paul had many co-workers, and he knew he was not above any of them. Neither did he speak or act like it. He never took money from anyone, and funded his own life and ministry by secular work.

He did not regard women as less, though we in church circles, still struggle with this issue. There are too many vested interests in organisations, and person empire building. Women are not optional extras, but necessary for the proper functioning of the body of Jesus Christ. Leaders give lip service to equality, but cannot step down, so that others can step up. The mind of Christ must be in us, as was in the Apostle who has set us this godly example. If your name is in the book of life, you are a worthy person, regardless for who you are or what you are. All who have life are equal with Christ and we treat each other as such.