Yes, I request you too, genuine yokefellow, keep assisting these women who have striven side by side with me in the good news.” (Phil. 4:2, 3)

Surely the apostle was not urging the Philippians to take sides over the difference. That would polarize the congregation, producing faction, jealousy and strife. (1 Cor. 1:10-13; 3:2-9) That is a serious danger that must be avoided. Yet, without busybodying as to the women’s grievances or views, the brothers and sisters, like the “genuine yokefellow” in Philippi, could offer corrective encouragement toward Christian unity, being forgiving and working together in love. (Matt. 5:23-25; Eph. 4:1-6, 31, 32; Titus 2:3-5)