Philippians 1 vs. 3-26

At bible study we are working our way through the book of Philippians, if any of the verses stand out to me I will share them with you here.

I would just like to share some background information on Philippians.

Purpose: To thank the Philippians and to encourage them in the belief that true joy comes from Jesus Christ

Author: Paul

To Whom Written: Christians at Philippi and all believers

Date Written: About AD 61, from Rome, during Paul’s imprisonment

Setting: Paul and his companions founded the church at Philippi on the second missionary journey. This was the first church established on the European continent. This group of believers sent a gift with Epaphroditus to be delivered to Paul

Key People: Paul, Timothy, Epaphroditus, Euodia and Syntyche

Key Place: Philippi

In verses 1-4 Paul says that the Philippians were a source of joy when he prayed. By helping Paul, they were helping to spread the gospel. Paul knew that the Philippians were willing to be used by God for whatever task he had in store for them.

Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.

So it is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a special place in my heart. You share with me the special favour of God, both in my imprisonment and in defending and confirming the truth of the Good News. God knows how much I love you and long for you with the tender compassion of Christ Jesus.

For I know that as you pray for me and the Spirit of Jesus Christ helps me, this will lead to my deliverance.

For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed but I will continue to be bold for Christ as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honour to Christ, whether I live or die. For to me living means living for Christ. But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. Knowing this I am convinced that I will remain alive so I can continue to help all of you grow and experience the joy of your faith. And when I come to you again, you will have even more reason to take pride in Christ Jesus because of what he is doing through me.

May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.

I pray that your love will overflow more and more and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation, the righteous character in your life be Jesus Christ for this will bring much glory and praise to God.