Aspect Details
Author Apostle Paul
Date Written Approximately 62 AD
Location The letter was written by Paul while he was in prison in Rome.
Recipients The Christian church in Philippi, a city in Macedonia.
Historical Background Philippi was a Roman colony established in 356 BC by Philip II of Macedon. It became a significant city during the Roman Empire. The Philippian church was one of the first Christian communities in Europe, founded by Paul during his second missionary journey (around 49-50 AD) as recorded in Acts 16:12-40.
Main Themes
  • Joy in the Christian life
  • Humility and unity among believers
  • Paul's personal experiences and example
  • Exhortation to live worthy of the Gospel
Purpose
  • To express Paul's gratitude for the Philippians' support
  • To encourage them to remain steadfast in their faith despite persecution
  • To promote unity and humility within the community
  • To address specific issues within the church, such as disputes and false teachings
Key Verses
  • Philippians 1:6 – "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
  • Philippians 2:3-4 – "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."
  • Philippians 4:13 – "I can do all this through him who gives me strength."


Chapter Summary
Chapter 1 Paul's Greeting and Thanksgiving: Paul expresses gratitude and joy for the Philippians' partnership in the gospel. He prays for their growth in love and knowledge. Paul speaks about his imprisonment, emphasizing that it has served to advance the gospel. He encourages the Philippians to conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the gospel, stressing unity and steadfastness in the face of opposition.
Chapter 2 Imitating Christ's Humility: Paul urges believers to adopt Christ-like humility, looking out for the interests of others. He presents Christ's example of humility and obedience, culminating in His exaltation by God. Paul encourages the Philippians to work out their salvation with fear and trembling, knowing that God works in them. He also discusses his hope to send Timothy and Epaphroditus to them.
Chapter 3 Warning Against False Teachers: Paul warns against the Judaizers who impose circumcision and other Jewish customs on Gentile converts. He recounts his own background and achievements but considers them worthless compared to the value of knowing Christ. Paul stresses the goal of striving towards the ultimate prize in Christ, maintaining a focus on the heavenly calling.
Chapter 4 Rejoice in the Lord: Paul calls for joy and gentleness, encouraging believers not to be anxious but to present their requests to God through prayer with thanksgiving. He highlights the importance of focusing on what is true, noble, and praiseworthy. Paul thanks the Philippians for their generosity and support for his ministry, assuring them that God will meet all their needs. He closes with final greetings and a benediction.