Philippians in Context

On Monday, we launched our summer Bible reading series, focused on Philippians. Knowing that original context is deeply important to understanding and interpreting Scripture in our own context, we wanted to provide a little background and insight on this New Testament letter.

Author: Paul

Original Audience: Christians in Philippi. Philippians is a letter Paul wrote to believers at the church in Philippi, located about 800 miles from Rome in the was located in the northeast section of the Roman province of Macedonia. Scholars believe Paul planted the church at Philippi during his second missionary journey. It is considered the first church in Europe.

Date: Traditionally, it is believed Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians during his first imprisonment in Rome, around AD 60-62.

Purpose & Message: While Paul was in prison, Epaphroditus visited Paul, giving Paul a financial gift from the Philippians believers and seeking to encourage Paul. Paul wrote this letter to thank the Philippians for their generosity and to update them on his situation. It's a highly personal letter to people Paul dearly loved and wanted to see grow in the faith. Knowing the Philippian church was facing persecution, Paul sought to strengthen and encourage the Philippians, stressing that true joy comes from Jesus Christ alone. Sometimes called "the letter of joy," it's important to note that it was likely written by a man who was under house arrest and had reason to be less than joyful and more focused on himself than others. Many of Paul's letters can be divided into theological and practical sections, but that can't be said of Philippians. Theological truths are infused throughout the book. Paul is deeply concerned with unity and exhorts his readers to live lives consistent with the truth of Christ who gave up his own life for them.

Question to Ponder as You Read This Week:

Paul urged the Philippians believers to live with joy in the midst of hardship and persecution. What steps will you take today to live with joy in a world filled with hardship and disunity?