Paul's Letter to the Philippians
Philippians was written during Paul's first Roman imprisonment in about A.D. 61, and is known as a "Prison Letter" (along with Ephesians, Colossians and Philemon). The church at Philippi had sent Paul a gift by way of Epaphroditus, their messenger. Epaphroditus had become sick in Rome, and the Philippian Christians were concerned about him. This made Epaphroditus all the more eager to return home. Paul therefore wrote this letter to his Christian friends in Philippi, expressing his grattitude for their love and help.
The theme of the book is "joy, or "rejoicing in the Lord." The word "joy" in its various forms occurs sixteen times. There were also perils to watch for, because there were enemies of the church, both inside and outside. Paul warns the Philippians of the present dangers of a self-seeking attitude and an attitude of pride, both of which could lead to harmful divisions. The book of Philippians also contains the most profound statement of the meaning of the incarnation (2:5-11).
I. Greetings, Thanksgiving and Prayer (1:1-11)
II. Paul's Personal Circumstances (1:12-26)
III. Exhortaions (1:27-2:18)
A. Live a Life Worthy of the
Gospel (1:27-30)
B. Follow the Servant Attitude
of Christ Jesus (2:1-18)
II. Paul's Personal Circumstances (1:12-26)
III. Exhortaions (1:27-2:18)
A. Live a Life Worthy of the
Gospel (1:27-30)
B. Follow the Servant Attitude
of Christ Jesus (2:1-18)
IV. Paul's Associates in the Gospel (2:19-30)
V. Warnings Against Judaizers and Libertines (3:1-4:1)
VI. Final Exhortations, Thanks and Conclusion (4:2-23)
In Chapter 1, Paul writes about his sufferings and that through his imprisonment the Kingdom was increased. “Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel” (1:12). Christians are to surrender their lives in service to Christ Jesus. And what do Christians expect in this life for doing this? Suffering, “For to you it has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, experiencing the same conflict which you saw in me, and now hear to be in me” (1:29-30). Jesus said, “Count the cost”… (Luke 14:25-33). Jesus referes to the rejection He experienced from this world. We will experience the same rejection from this fallen world as we walk in union with Him.
In chapter 2, Paul explains the benefits of believers in unity with the “mind of Christ”. He teaches a theological lesson about the humanity of Jesus Christ as He laid down His glory and became a perfect human man.
In chapter 3, Paul expounds on the joys of a Christian and encourages the church to press forward with the Gospel. He displays his testimony when he said, “I
have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ” (3:8).
have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ” (3:8).
In chapter 4, Paul again mentions joys in Christ as he teaches believers to rejoice in the Lord. It is important for the believer to be well grounded in prayer and thanksgiving. To offer praise and to give God thanks for the many provisions they are blessed with, “my God shall supply all your needs” (4:19).
continue to Colossians...
continue to Colossians...