Partner Together in the Work of the Gospel

Exegetical Outline

I. Letter Opening

A. Salutation (Philippians 1:1-2)

B. Thanksgiving & Prayer (Philippians 1:3-11)

Thanksgiving

i. (JOY) Joy from Philippians' partnership (Philippians 1:3-5)

a. They sent a gift supporting the spread of the gospel

b. The gospel was why they met

c. The spread of the gospel was the goal of their fellowship

ii. (CONFIDENCE) Confidence in God's completion of "good work" He began Philippians 1:6

a. nature of the work (Giving evidenced the maturity of their thought and action. The good work in 1:6 refers to what lay behind their generosity, the calling and Christian maturity of the church. [Melick, 58]).

b. time orientation involved (until the day of Christ Jesus).

iii. (PROPER) Affection toward Philippians as partakers of grace and partnership Philippians 1:7-8

Note: Not regarding his confidence, but regarding his gratitude.

a. They're in his heart

b. Fellow service in the apostolic ministry.

c. Deep affection of Christ Jesus

Specific Prayer

iv. (SPECIFIC PRAYER) Prayer for fruit of righteosness abounding to the glory and praise of God Philippians 1:9-11

a. that your love may abound, with knowledge and discernment (penetrating into personal relation with God and situations of practical conduct)

b. purpose: approve what is excellent.

c. be pure and blameless in preparation for Christ's return, characterized by fruit of righteousness [anticpates Ch.2 where they work out their own salvation]

d. ultimate end goal: glory and praise of God.

II. Co-laborers in Ministry of the Gospel (Philippians 2:19-30)

A. Plans to Send Timothy Philippians 2:19-24

i. Genuine concern for their welfare

2. Proven: Service in the ministry of the gospel

B. Plans to Send Epaphroditus Philippians 2:25-30

1. Brother, fellow worker, fellow soldier, messenger, minister

2. Receive him with honor