Sermon Tone Analysis

Overview of this Letter

The Philippian letter is written by Paul to the church at Philippi.

Paul’s and the Philippians’ partnership in the gospel; Christ as the key to all of life, from beginning to end; knowing Christ, by becoming like him in his death (sacrificing oneself for others); rejoicing in Christ even in suffering; unity through humility and love; the certainty and pursuit of the final prize

Paul has had a longtime relationship and friendship with the people at Philippi.

Here you get a good look at what made Paul tick—Christ crucified and raised from the dead, whose story is recounted in 2:5–11.

Emphases of Philippians

Paul’s and the Philippians’ partnership in the gospel; Christ as the key to all of life, from beginning to end; knowing Christ, by becoming like him in his death (sacrificing oneself for others); rejoicing in Christ even in suffering; unity through humility and love; the certainty and pursuit of the final prize.

Walkthrough of Philippians

1:1–11 Salutation, Thanksgiving, and Prayer

1:12–26 Paul’s Circumstances: Reflections on Imprisonment

1:27–2:18 The Philippians’ Circumstances: Exhortation to Steadfastness and Unity

1:12–26 Paul’s Circumstances: Reflections on Imprisonment

Salutation, Thanksgiving, and Prayer

2:19–30 What’s Next?

Regarding Paul’s and Their Circumstances

1:27–2:18

3:1–4:3 The Philippians’ Circumstances Again: Warning and Appeal

Paul’s Circumstances: Reflections on Imprisonment

2:19–30

The Philippians’ Circumstances: Exhortation to Steadfastness and Unity

4:4–9 Concluding Exhortations

4:10–20 Acknowledging Their Gift: Friendship and the Gospel

The Philippians’ Circumstances Again: Warning and Appeal

What’s Next?

Regarding Paul’s and Their Circumstances

Concluding Exhortations

4:21–23 Closing Greetings

Closing Greetings