INTRODUCTION TO PHILIPPIANS
The Book of Philippians was written by Paul in Rome around 60-62 A.D. and is considered one of his Prison Epistles (along with Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon). Philippi was a Roman colony and a leading city in Macedonia, along the Via Egnatia highway connecting Rome to the East. Philippi profited from its gold ore, and many Roman soldiers retired there. Though situated in Greece, the city used Latin as its official language, followed Roman customs, and was called, 'Little Rome.' Its people were proud Roman citizens, and women enjoyed financial success and social freedom.
Philippi was the first church in Europe. The Philippian Christians actively supported Paul financially and had sent Epaphroditus to deliver their support and to be his helper. After Epaphroditus became ill, Paul sent him back with this letter to thank them for their support, explain why Epaphroditus was returning, report on Paul's condition in prison, warn them against false teachers, and urge them to be united. His letter also addresses complacency and self-reliance, which are enemies of the cross.
Thus, Paul emphasized the life in Christ. He refers to Jesus Christ 51 times in 104 verses. The key verse of this book is Philippians 1:21, 'To live is Christ, to die is gain.' This was the secret to joy in Paul's life. He was passionate in his desire to be Christlike. Let's learn the secret to joy and victory through pursuing Christlikeness!

1. God will complete us in Christ (1-6)

In prison, Paul did not despair or shrink back. Paul was thankful and joyful by remembering the Philippians' strong partnership in the gospel. He prayed for them day and night and gained an assurance that God who began a good work in them will complete his work until the Day of Christ. Through his Christlike struggle to be thankful, joyful, and prayerful, Paul could have a vision of Christ's final victory and salvation!

2. This is my prayer (7-11)

Instead of worrying, Paul prayed earnestly for them to abound in love and insight. Abound means to overflow. By abounding in love and insight, they could discern what is best and be pure and blameless on the Day of Christ, filled with the fruits of righteousness in Christ, glorifying God!


Application: Lord, instead of worrying, help me to pray for others day and night, trusting God to complete the good work he began in them until the Day of Christ.
One Word: Completed in Christ!