Philippians

Introduction

This warm and upbeat letter was written while Paul was imprisoned in Rome around a.d. 61. Despite this circumstance, the key word in Philippians is “joy” or “rejoice,” which occurs 14 times. While the letter is personal, rather than a theological treatise like Romans or Galatians, it contains one of Scriptures’ most powerful affirmations of the Incarnation and exaltation of Christ (2:1-11). The Book of Philippians is also a beautiful expression of the values and motives of Paul himself, and thus an example for Christians of every era.

Outline of Contents

1. Introduction— Phil. 1:1-11
2. Paul’s Imprisonment— Phil. 1:12-30
3. Imitating Christ’s Humility— Phil. 2:1-18
4. News of Epaphroditus— Phil. 2:19-30
5. Warnings— Phil. 3:1-4:1
6. Personal Exhortations— Phil. 4:2-9
7. Thanks and Farewell— Phil. 4:10-23

Reading Guide (4 Days)

If hurried, you may read only the “core passage” in your Bible and the Devotional in each chapter of this Commentary.