The Epistle to the Philippians, penned by the Apostle Paul during his imprisonment, stands as a beacon of joy and gratitude amid adversity. Addressed to the Christian community in Philippi, a city of Macedonia, this letter is infused with a spirit of camaraderie and heartfelt thanksgiving. Paul’s words resonate with a deep sense of affection and partnership, as he shares his own experiences and encourages the believers in their faith journey. The themes of joy, humility, and unity weave through the fabric of this epistle, offering timeless wisdom and inspiration for all who seek to live out their faith in the face of trials and tribulations. Let us embark on this journey through Philippians, exploring its profound teachings and discovering its relevance in our lives today.
Paul’s primary purpose in writing this letter was to thank the Philippians for the gift they had sent him upon learning of his detention at Rome. However, he makes use of this occasion to fulfil several other desires: (1) to report on his own circumstances; (2) to encourage the Philippians to stand firm in the face of persecution and rejoice regardless of circumstances; and (3) to exhort them to humility and unity.
The Philippians felt a very deep interest for the apostle. The scope of the epistle is to confirm them in the faith, to encourage them to walk as becomes the gospel of Christ, to caution them against Judaizing teachers, and to express gratitude for their Christian bounty. This epistle is the only one, among those written by St. Paul, in which no censures are implied or expressed. Full commendation and confidence are in every part, and the Philippians are addressed with a peculiar affection, which every serious reader will perceive.
Matthew Henry