Studies in Philippians – Introduction and Overview Addressed to “the saints in Christ Jesus…with the bishops and deacons,” Philippians 1:1. Facts about Philippi: – Leading city of Macedonia. – A Roman Colony, Acts 16:12. – Located on Gangites River, about 10 miles from Neapolis, a sea port. – Accessible between the Eastern and Western parts of the world; also several gold mines.

The Establishment of the Church in Philippi: On Paul’s second “missionary journey,” he saw a vision of a man of Macedonia, saying, “come over into Macedonia and help us,” Acts 16:9-12. First preached to some woman at a riverside where they gathered to pray, Acts 16: Converted Lydia and her household; later the Jailer and his household, Acts 16:25-34.

The Church at Philippi: Repeatedly demonstrated its love for Paul, Philippians 1:3-5; 2:25; 4: Was Scripturally organized, consisting of “saints in Christ Jesus…with the bishops and deacons,” Philippians 1:1 The book contains no rebuke with a local bearing. Key words: “love” and “joy;” “the book should be read as a special tonic.”

The Occasion for Writing this Letter: Epaphroditis had brought aid to Paul, while in prison, Philippians 2:25. – While there, Epaphroditus became very ill, but “God had mercy on him,” Philippians 2:27. Paul is sending Epaphroditus back to Philippi, and apparently sent this letter with him; a letter of thanks, but filled with doctrinal and practical lessons.

Outline of Philippians: Salutation, Philippians 1:1,2. Thanksgiving and prayer for the Philippian saints, Philippians 1:3-11. Paul’s condition at Rome, Phil. 1: Proper conduct for Christians, 2:1-18. Paul’s fellow workers, Philippians 2: Warnings Against False Teachers, 3:1-4:1. Final Exhortations, Philippians 4:2-9. Benediction, Philippians 4:21-23.

Some Important Lessons from Philippians – How to look at Reverses: The Way of Christ is the way of the Cross! Problems and Reverses often redound to he advancement of the Gospel! 1: – Stimulates public interest, Philippians 1:13. – Authenticates a person’s conviction, 1:13. – Stimulates others to greater zeal, 1:14. How to look at Reverses. – A time to sing and pray, Acts 16:25. – A time to magnify Christ, Philippians 1:20. – A time to learn the true meaning of life, Phil. 1:21.

Important Lessons – Importance of Unity in the Local Church, 2:1-8. Note the “if” statement of Phil. 2:1. Calls for the elimination of those things which foster division. – Strife, Philippians 2:3. – Vain Glory, Philippians 2:3. – Selfishness, Philippians 2:4. And the incorporation of those things which promote unity. – Concern for others, Phil. 2:3,4. – The mind of Christ, Philippians 2:5. – Effort, Philippians 2:12,13.

Important Lessons – How to Live Before a Watching World, 2: Forward movement, 2:12. Fear and Trembling, 2:12. Avoid murmuring and Disputing, 2:14,15. Moral Purity, 2:15. Holding forth the Word of Life, 2:16. Putting the Lord’s will before our own, 2:19-30.

Important Lesson – The Importance of Rejoicing in the Lord, 3:1-12. Must “beware” of those who lead others astray, 3:2. “Worship God in the spirit,” 3:3. Put confidence in the Lord, not flesh, 3:4-6. Be willing to sacrifice all for Jesus, 3:7,8. Forget past and press forward, 3:13,14. Walk by the same rule, 3:16. Keep eyes on the goal, 3:20,21.

Important Lesson – Requirements for True Happiness, Phil. 4:4-13. Practice moderation (gentleness), 4:5. Spend time praying; not worrying, 4:6,7. Control our thoughts, 4:8. Follow the right example, 4:9. Learn Contentment, 4: Learn the Source of Spiritual Strength, 4:13.

Conclusion: Every book of the Bible is different and serves its own unique purpose. Philippians is not as “heavy” in doctrine as Romans, nor as filled with rebuke as I Corin- thians. It is relatively easy to understand; it is very practical as it relates to life in the world. It contains the divine recipe for happiness.