The Letter of the Apostle Paul to the
PHILIPPIANS
Author:
Paul an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Date:
Sometime about 60 AD.
Themes:
Paul had founded this Church during his second missionary journey (Acts 16:12-40). Now he is in prison, being persecuted for preaching the gospel of Christ. However the key words of this letter are “joy” and “rejoice”. Though encountering many troubles and dangers Paul did not give in to discouragement, did not complain about anything. He was rejoicing and he encouraged others to rejoice. Another theme of this letter is the proclamation and spread of the gospel (Phil 1:4, 7, 12, 18, 27; 2:15, 22). For the sake of Christ’s gospel Paul renounced his own aims and desires and patiently endured all things that he might make it known. He found his joy, his ability to endure and persevere, his righteousness, his strength and power in Christ alone, and revealed to the believers at Philippi (and to us) the way of life that is satisfying and fruitful, the kind of life that brings glory to Christ. Another important theme is renunciation – Phil 2:5-8; 3:8-10.
Contents:
Paul’s love, prayer, and thanksgiving for
the believers in Philippi 1:3-11
Paul’s imprisonment resulted in further spread
of the gospel 1:12-26
Good and bad motives in preaching 1:13-18
Paul’s confidence that he would be released 1:19,25
Paul’s aim in living or in dying 1:20-26
Living a life worthy of the gospel of Christ 1:27—2:4
Jesus Christ the great example of renunciation 2:5-11
His deity 2:6
His renunciation, humility, obedience 2:7-8
His exaltation 2:9-11
Working out salvation 2:12-18
Timothy and Epaphroditus 2:19-30
Warning concerning false teaching 3:1-2
No confidence in the flesh 3:3-7
Joyfully renouncing all things for Christ 3:8-11
Running for the goal 3:12-17
Two kinds of persons, two different ends 3:18-21
Words of encouragement and exhortation 4:2-9
How to live without worry 4:6-7
Contentment in every situation 4:10-13
The Philippians’ gifts to Paul 4:14-19
Closing remarks 4:20-23