AUTHOR: Paul
DATE: Probably written while in prison in Rome around A.D. 60 – 62
SETTING: Philippi was the first church in Europe. The city was located on the Egnatian Way which connected the eastern provinces of the Roman empire to the city of Rome. Philippi became the leading city in Macedonia. The church in Philippi was composed of multiple races, cultures, and social classes.
THEMES: The most prominent theme is that of joy, specifically the joy of serving Jesus. It is interesting that an epistle of joy was written from prison. Paul had the ability to share the Gospel even in times of difficulty. Paul was able to see God working through difficult situations. A second theme is that of “partnership in the gospel.” Paul uses the Greek word koinonia with words like “fellowship”, “partakers”, and “shared.” The Philippians were involved in Paul’s ministry, and, with their support, the Philippians had become partners with Paul in furthering the Gospel of Jesus Christ. A third theme was the identifying of a few weak areas for improvement. One of these was the need for love with discernment. Paul proclaims Jesus’ life as the model for believers to emulate.
OUTLINE:
I. Salutation1: 1 – 2
II. Paul’s prayers for the Philippians 1:3 – 11
A. Praise for the Philippians 1: 3 – 5
B. Promise: Paul’s confidence in Christ and His work 1:6 – 7
C. Prayer for the Philippians 1:8 – 11
III. The biography of Paul 1:12 – 26
A. Success in jail: the Gospel proclaimed by Paul and others 1:12 – 18
B. Success in Jesus: Paul’s desire and determination to glorify Christ 1:19 – 26
IV. The body of the letter 1:27 – 4:9
A. Excellence in conduct 1:27 – 2:18
1. The privilege of suffering for Christ
2. The priority of submitting to others
3. The picture of Christ’s humble suffering
4. The priority of sacrificing oneself
B. Examples of good conduct: Timothy and Epaphroditus 2:19 – 30
C. Examples of commitment: Paul’s rejection of the world for Christ 3:1 – 21
D. Excellence in commitment: dedication to Christ 4:1 – 9
V. Blessings 4:10 – 20
A. For Paul 4:10 – 18
B. For the Philippians 4:19 – 20
C. Benediction and greetings 4:21 – 23
(Resource: Nelson Study Bible)
On a personal note, Philippians 2:5 – 11 is one of my most favorite passages in all the Bible. It is a precious and powerful passage depicting the Deity and humility of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His obedience to the Father and His love for us are absolutely unwavering and unparalleled! His name is highly exalted and some day we will all bow at His feet and confess that He is Lord to the glory of God the Father. What an awesome day that will be!
In Him, Mark Ritter