Main Themes of the Book of Philippians

Who wrote the Book of Philippians and who did they write it for?

The Apostle Paul wrote the book of Philippians to the church in Philippi.

When did the events in the Book of Philippians happen?

This letter was written between 60-63 AD while Paul was imprisoned in Rome, approximately a decade after he was called to the region via a night vision sent from the Lord (Acts 16:6-10).

What is the setting of the Book of Philippians?

This letter’s destination was the church in Philippi, a major city in Macedonia which was a Roman colony and the first church established in Europe. Philippi had a very progressive culture where women of the time had a lot of independence.

What is the purpose of the Books of Philippians?

1. Prayers and proclamations (Philippians 1)
2. Light of Christ (Philippians 2)
3. Living for Christ (Philippians 3)
4. Commitment to Christ (Philippians 4)

How does the Book of Philippians apply to my life?

• Encourages Christians to live a life committed to Jesus Christ in practical ways through all circumstances.
• Encourages Christians to have joy in serving the Lord and living generously.
• Reminds Christians to live humble, united, and as partners of the gospel.
• Calls on Christians to share in fellowship among one another in our mission of furthering the gospel in all circumstances.
• Exhorts Christians to grow in knowledge and discernment according to the Word of God.
• Instructs Christians in avoiding false teachings.
• Reminds Christians of the importance of a committed relationship with Jesus Christ.

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Summary

The letter of Philippians was one of the four letters the Apostle Paul wrote while under house arrest in Rome. He had visited Philippi several times in the years before writing this letter, the church in Philippi being the first city Paul preached in Europe.

Philippi was a progressive place of the time. In particular, the women were very independent, vastly different from the culture in much of the rest of the world. Part of the reason for this letter was because the women were causing some strife in church.

This letter is fairly short, but it packs a vital punch for all believers of Jesus and exhorts with crucial reminders of who we are called to be and how we are called to live as Christians. Followers of Jesus will find encouragement in their faith walk, and reminders to hold tight to their relationship with and commitment to Jesus.

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