Introduction to the letter to the Philippians
The 50th book of the Bible, the 11th in the New Testament
The church in Philippi, a city in the eastern part of the Roman province of Macedonia, in northern Greece, was the first Christian community on the European continent.
It was founded by the Apostle Paul during his second missionary journey in A.D. 49.
He wrote the Letter to the Philippians from prison. We do not know whether this took place as early as 54/55 in Ephesus or only between 61 and 63 AD from Rome.
It contains very personal information from Paul. He seems to have had a special bond with the church, as evidenced by the fact that he allowed himself to be financially supported by the Philippians through their church member Epaphroditus, something he strictly refused from other churches.
The church in Philippi also faced persecution for its faith and was visited by false teachers from Judaism who likely demanded that believers be circumcised.
Here, Paul encourages steadfastness and reminds us that it is our faith that justifies us, not the blind observance of laws.
The main theme of the letter is true Christian life and its personal implications for us: experiencing Jesus’ victory and his joy in every situation and every area of our lives.
Outline of the Letter to the Philippians:
Chapter 1 – Thanks and prayer for the Philippians, personal report, holding fast to the faith
Chapter 2 – Jesus as Our Example and Exhortation to a Holy Life
Chapter 3 – Christ Our Goal, A Warning Against Legalism as the Enemy of the Cross
Chapter 4 – An Exhortation to Rejoice in the Lord and to Unity, Thanks for the Church’s Care
Content of the letter to the Philippians:
Philippians chapter 1
Philippians chapter 2
Philippians chapter 3
Philippians chapter 4