Philippians: A thankyou note

Philippians 1:6 KJV 1900

6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

The book of Philippians is one of the books that Paul wrote by his own hand from prison; likely in Rome although it could have been from Ephesus or Caesarea.

It is a thank you letter to the church in Philippi for raising an offering so that he could survive.

Key themes of the book:

Joy

Encouragement

Call to live faithfully

Grace of God

Chapter 1: Joy in Suffering

Key Theme: Paul expresses gratitude and joy for the Philippians’ partnership in the Gospel.

Message: Even though Paul is imprisoned, he sees his suffering as advancing the Gospel.

He encourages believers to live in a manner worthy of the Gospel and remain steadfast in faith.

Key Verse: Philippians 1:21 – “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

In this first chapter, Paul is clear…

My bonds, chains, circumstance is the bonds that I wear because of my stand for Christ!

I am in a quandary…

I can stay here and live - for your sake!

I can die and see Jesus!

Philippians 1:25 KJV 1900

25 And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;

It would be another 2-7 years that he would “abide” with them…

Chapter 2: Unity Through Humility

Key Theme: Paul urges the church to cultivate unity by imitating Christ’s humility.

Message: Jesus’ example of selflessness and obedience, even to death on a cross, is the model for Christian living.

Paul encourages the Philippians to work out their salvation and shine as lights in the world.

Key Passage: Philippians 2:5-11 – The Christ Hymn, describing Jesus’ humility and exaltation.

Philippians 2:5–11 KJV 1900

5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Key Verse: Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”

Humility: not thinking less of yourself, it’s not thinking of yourself at all!

Chapter 3: Pressing Toward the Goal

Key Theme: Paul warns against false teachings and encourages focus on the eternal prize.

Beware of dogs, evil workers, concision (mutilators)

We have a high call!

Message: Paul counts all his past achievements as loss compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ.

He presses on toward the goal of eternal life, encouraging believers to do the same.

Key Verse: Philippians 3:13-14 – “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

We have a call! A goal! Run toward it!

Chapter 4: Joy and Contentment in Christ

Key Theme: Paul concludes with encouragement to rejoice, trust in God, and find contentment in Him.

Message: Believers are called to rejoice always, pray with thanksgiving, and trust in God’s provision.

Paul shares his own testimony of contentment, whether in need or abundance, through the strength of Christ.

Key Verses: Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.”

Conclusion: Overall Themes

Joy in Christ: Joy is possible in all circumstances through faith in Jesus.

Humility and Unity: Believers are called to follow Christ’s example of humility and selflessness.

Perseverance: Press on toward the eternal prize, forgetting past failures and focusing on Christ.

Contentment: Trust in God’s provision and find peace beyond human understanding.

There is joy for the called who press into purpose, forgetting the past and trust God!

Philippians is a powerful reminder that true joy and peace are found in a life centered on Jesus Christ.