Studies in Philippians – Introduction and Overview Addressed to “the saints in Christ Jesus…with the bishops and deacons,” Philippians 1:1. Facts about.

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 16:13-15.

• 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; 4:14-18.

• 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. 1:12-30.• Proper conduct for Christians, 2:1-18.• Paul’s fellow workers, Philippians 2:19-30.• 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! 1:12-14.– 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, 2:12-18.

• 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, 4:10-12.• 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.