Introduction to the Book of Philippians (May 23, 2025)

Author

The letter to the Philippians is written by the Apostle Paul, as stated in the opening verse:

“Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 1:1, ESV).

Though Timothy is mentioned alongside Paul, the letter is unmistakably Pauline in authorship, tone, and theology. Paul writes with apostolic authority, yet calls himself a servant (douloi in Greek, meaning bondservant or slave), underscoring humility and glad submission to Christ.

Audience

The letter is addressed to:

“All the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons.” (Philippians 1:1, ESV)

Philippi was a Roman colony in Macedonia (modern-day northern Greece), known for its military history and civic pride. Paul had founded the church there during his second missionary journey (Acts 16:6–40), making it the first Christian community established on European soil. Its early members were a diverse group: Lydia, a wealthy merchant; a formerly enslaved girl; and a Roman jailer and his family—each converted through sovereign grace and the power of the gospel.

Context and Setting

Paul wrote Philippians while imprisoned—most likely in Rome around A.D. 60–62. Under house arrest and awaiting trial before Caesar (cf. Acts 28:16, 30–31), Paul’s external circumstances were bleak. Yet the letter overflows with joy, thanksgiving, and gospel hope.

The word joy (Greek: χαρά) and its cognates appear at least sixteen times in this brief letter, which is often referred to as Paul’s “Epistle of Joy.” It is one of four Prison Epistles, alongside Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon.

Purpose of the Letter

Though sparked by a financial gift delivered through Epaphroditus (Philippians 4:18), Paul’s letter goes far beyond gratitude. It is:

A pastoral encouragement:

“Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ… stand firm in one spirit…” (Philippians 1:27, ESV)

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4, ESV)

A theological reflection:

“Though he was in the form of God… he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” (Philippians 2:6, 8, ESV)

A personal testimony:

“For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21, ESV)

“I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14, ESV)

A gospel-centered call to holy perseverance:

“Our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 3:20, ESV)

Major Themes

Joy in Christ, Not in Circumstances

Paul’s joy flows from the gospel, not from favorable conditions.

“Yes, and I will rejoice…” (Philippians 1:18b–19)

“Rejoice in the Lord always…” (Philippians 4:4)

“I am glad and rejoice with you all.” (Philippians 2:17)

The Humility and Lordship of Jesus Christ

The Christ Hymn (2:5–11) is central to Paul’s theology of the Incarnation.

“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 2:5–11)

“Every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord…” (Philippians 2:11)

Partnership in the Gospel and Missions

The Philippians are not merely recipients of Paul’s ministry—they are partners.

“Your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” (Philippians 1:5)

“No church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only.” (Philippians 4:15)

The Surpassing Worth of Knowing Christ

Paul treasures Christ above all.

“I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” (Philippians 3:8)

“That I may know him and the power of his resurrection…” (Philippians 3:10)

Heavenly Citizenship and Perseverance

Believers are called to live now in light of their true citizenship in heaven.

“Our citizenship is in heaven…” (Philippians 3:20)

“Let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel…” (Philippians 1:27)

“Hold fast to the word of life…” (Philippians 2:16)

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