Philippians

Author: the apostle Paul
Place of writing: Rome
Time of writing: 60 or 61 A.D.

When Paul wrote this letter to the Philippian church, in part to thank them for their financial support (4:10-19), his situation seemed to leave no reason for joy or hope. He was in prison at Rome, and to compound the problem, insincere brothers in Christ were attempting to increase his affliction (1:17); but in reality, Paul had every reason for joy, because of the gift of the gospel, and the fellowship that he was able to have with Jesus and with all his fellow-believers; and he had every reason to believe that the gospel would continue to advance in spite of all hindrances.

Paul’s primary purpose in writing this letter is to give believers a right perspective on the place of difficulties and obstacles in the work of the gospel, so that they do not lose heart when trials come. He emphasizes repeatedly that, if we know Jesus, we always have cause for joy, and we may always be confident of victory, no matter what the circumstances may be.

Paul begins his letter by joyfully thanking God for the fellowship he has with the Philippian believers, because of their joint participation in the gospel, and expressing his confidence that God would complete the work that he began in them. He goes on to relate his difficult circumstances, but again expresses his confidence that through everything, whether in life or death, God would be glorified and Paul would be saved. Then, he exhorts the believers to live in a manner that is worthy of the gospel, following the example of Christ’s amazing humility and love, and pursuing purity in the midst of an evil world. After relaying some news about Timothy and Epaphroditus, he warns them of those who trust that they will be accepted by God because of their own good works, and exhorts them to trust only in Jesus’ righteousness for justification. Then he also warns them about those who serve their own fleshly desires, and are enemies of the cross of Christ. Finally, he exhorts them all to be unified and full of joy, thanks them for their financial support, and reminds them of God’s abundant provision for all their needs.

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