Exposition of Philippians Introduction Phil 1:1-2

Philippi on Paul’s Second Journey – c. 49-51 AD (Acts 16:9-40) Philippi was 11 miles inland. No mention of a synagogue here; Paul met with worshippers by the river. Lydia was converted, a slave girl was freed from demon possession, which landed Paul and Silas in prison. The jailer and his family were subsequently

The Prison Epistles Philippians also written from here and delivered to Philippi by Epaphroditus (Phil 2:25-30). Ephesians, Colossians, & Philemon written from here and delivered by Tychicus and Onesimus (Eph 6:21; Col 4:7-9). Paul is under house arrest from 60-62 AD. He has decent living conditions, is allowed visitors, and is even permitted to teach the Gospel. Only a few from the circumcision are assisting him (Col 4:10-11). He expects to be released. His condition in this imprisonment is in sharp contrast to the one from which he writes 2 Timothy.

Introductory Matters for Philippians Author: The Apostle Paul, founder of the church at Philippi and now a prisoner for the cause of Christ (Phil 1:12-13). Date: About 62 AD, near the end of Paul’s first Roman imprisonment, and about 10 years after the initial founding of the Philippian church. Audience: The church at Philippi in Macedonia, established on Paul’s second missionary journey (Acts 16:9-40). The church was predominantly Gentile; there is no record of a synagogue here. Occasion for the Letter: Paul takes advantage of Epaphroditus’ return trip (he had earlier brought a gift from the Philippians) to write them a letter of friendship and encouragement. Character of the book: A personal letter of joyful encouragement and gratitude from the Apostle Paul to a church who had faithfully supported him.

Major Themes in Philippians Joy/Contentment in All Circumstances The Gospel Examples Christ Paul Timothy Epaphroditus Warning Against False Teachers Steadfastness/Being of the same mind “Rejoice” or some form of it appears 16 times in the epistle. Paul does not explicitly say “Be imitators of me” in this letter as he does in other places (1 Cor 4:16; 11:1; Eph 5:1)

Purposes for Philippians To provide information to the Philippians on Paul’s circumstances and the ongoing advance of the gospel To express Paul’s affection for these believers who had been faithful partners in the gospel To warn the Philippians against the Judaizers and those leading licentious lives To exhort the Philippians to lives of unity, humility, joy, and thanksgiving

Survey of Philippians Salutation (1:1-2) Paul’s Prayer for the Philippians (1:3-11) Paul’s prayer is one of thanksgiving for the Philippians’ participation in the Gospel and petition for their ongoing growth in knowledge and discernment. Paul’s Report on His Personal Circumstances and Their Advance of the Gospel (1:12-26) Far from restricting the spread of the Gospel, Paul’s imprisonment has caused it to spread throughout the praetorian guard and emboldened others in their witness for Christ. For Paul, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

Survey of Philippians Paul’s Appeal for a Worthy Walk (1:27-3:21) Walk worthy and contend as one, even in suffering (1:27-30) Paul’s Call to Unity (2:1-30) Be of the same mind by humbling yourself, looking to Christ as the example (2:1-11) Work out your salvation with fear and trembling (2:12-18) Paul’s desire to send Timothy and the need to send Epaphroditus (2:19-30) Paul’s Call to Steadfastness (3:1-21) Beware of evil workers (3:1-3) Paul as one who put no confidence in the flesh (3:4-14) The need to follow Paul’s example (3:15-17) and warning against those who don’t (3:18-21)

Survey of Philippians Paul’s Final Exhortations (4:1-21) Stand Firm in the Lord (4:1) Let Euodia and Syntche Live in Harmony (4:2-3) Be Anxious for Nothing (4:4-7) Focus on What Is Excellent (4:8-9) Paul’s Joy in the Partnership of the Philippians (4:10-20) Epilogue (4:21-23)

Next Time: Paul’s Thanksgiving and Prayer for the Philippians No class next week; resume on Sept 29.