Philippians 1: An Epistle of Joy and Gospel Partnership
Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:
Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,
Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,
For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;
Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.
For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.
And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment;
That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;
Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.
But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;
So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places;
And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.
Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:
The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:
But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.
What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.
For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,
According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.
For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.
For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:
Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.
And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;
That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again.
Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;
And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.
For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;
Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.
Philippians 1 introduces us to the heart of Paul's letter to the Philippian church, a vibrant community he deeply loved. Often called "the epistle of joy," Philippians radiates gratitude, strength, and an unwavering focus on the Christian life. This chapter lays the foundation for the themes Paul will explore, including the importance of gospel partnership, the progress of the gospel even in suffering, and the ultimate gain found in Christ, whether living or dying. Paul uses this chapter to encourage the Philippians by reminding them that God can use every experience, positive or negative, for His glory. This sets the tone for the rest of the letter, where Paul will continue to emphasize the importance of living out the Christian life, starting with the right attitude and approach.
Introduction: Authors, Audience, and Grace (Philippians 1:1-2)
The letter opens with Paul and Timothy identifying themselves not as apostles demanding respect, but as "servants of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:1). This humble self-designation sets the tone for the entire letter, foreshadowing the emphasis on humility and service that Paul will develop further in chapter 2. Paul includes Timothy, his trusted companion and "son in the faith," acknowledging Timothy's prior ministry in the Philippian region (Acts 16:1-15).
Paul addresses "all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the overseers and deacons" (Philippians 1:1). This inclusive greeting acknowledges the entire congregation, while specifically recognizing the leaders – the overseers (bishops or elders) and deacons – who were entrusted with guiding and serving the church. The Philippian church, about twelve years old at the time of writing, had clearly matured in faith and developed a strong leadership structure. The mention of deacons is noteworthy as 1 Timothy 3 is the only other New Testament book to specifically speak of deacons.
The introduction concludes with a concise yet profound summary of the gospel: "Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ" (Philippians 1:2). This blessing encapsulates the core of Christian experience: God's unmerited favor (grace) bringing wholeness and reconciliation (peace) through Jesus Christ.
Thanksgiving and Prayer for the Philippians (Philippians 1:3-11)
Paul immediately expresses his deep gratitude to God for the Philippians: "I thank my God in all my remembrance of you" (Philippians 1:3). Years after his initial ministry in Philippi (Acts 16:11-40), the church remained constantly in his thoughts and prayers. He cherishes their value to him as a church and as brothers and sisters in Christ, missing them and desiring their welfare and blessing. This heartfelt thanksgiving stems from their ongoing "partnership in the gospel from the first day until now" (Philippians 1:5). He rejoices in their shared mission. This "partnership" refers to their consistent support of Paul's ministry, both spiritually and materially.
Paul expresses confidence that God, who initiated this "good work" in them, "will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ" (Philippians 1:6). This is a powerful reminder that God is faithful to finish what He starts. While people often start projects with enthusiasm only to see their zeal fade, God is not like us. He never undertakes anything that he doesn’t finish. When he begins a good work in a believer’s heart, it’s as good as done.
Paul's affection for the Philippians is rooted in their shared grace and their unwavering support of his ministry, even during his imprisonment. He considers them partners in grace because they supported him in his imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel (Philippians 1:7). They were not fair-weather Christians; when the gospel was spreading powerfully, they supported him, and when Paul's ministry landed him in jail, they remained true to him. His deep connection with them is evident in his words: "For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:8).
Paul's prayer for the Philippians focuses on their spiritual growth: "that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment" (Philippians 1:9). He desires that their love be informed by truth, rooted in knowledge and discernment, not mere sentimental emotion. Discerning love helps us approve the things that are superior so that we don’t waste our lives on inferior things (Philippians 1:10). This will lead them to "approve what is excellent, so that you may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God" (Philippians 1:10-11). Ultimately, Paul prays that their lives will be characterized by righteousness, bearing fruit that brings glory to God.
The Progress of the Gospel (Philippians 1:12-18)
Paul addresses his current circumstances, his imprisonment, not as a setback, but as an opportunity for the gospel to advance. He wants the Philippians to know that God is using his suffering to promote the gospel. He explains, "I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel" (Philippians 1:12). His imprisonment has become widely known "throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest" (Philippians 1:13). All of the guards knew about his faith, and Paul was clearly willing to preach to his own captors.
Furthermore, Paul's chains have emboldened other believers to speak the word of God "with greater boldness and without fear" (Philippians 1:14). Other Christians were emboldened because they knew that Paul’s imprisonment was for Christ (Philippians 1:13). They gained confidence and spoke the word fearlessly because of him (Philippians 1:14). This brings up an important point: The gospel is not hindered by struggle and persecution when they are tied to our faith and witness.
Interestingly, Paul acknowledges that some preach Christ "from envy and rivalry," while others do so "from good will" (Philippians 1:15). Some detractors were jealous of Paul’s impact and giftedness. Such people proclaimed Christ out of selfish ambition (Philippians 1:15). They wanted to see Paul even more troubled (Philippians 1:17)! Thankfully, many others preached Christ out of good will and love (Philippians 1:15-16). Regardless of their motives, Paul rejoices that "Christ is proclaimed" (Philippians 1:18). It takes a radical kind of God-centeredness to rejoice in gospel proclamation—even when the preachers intend your harm (1:18). But as long as Jesus was exalted and people were believing in him, Paul was content.
To Live is Christ, and to Die is Gain (Philippians 1:19-30)
Paul expresses his confidence that through the prayers of the Philippians and the help of the Spirit, he will be delivered (Philippians 1:19). He declares that he will be vindicated through the prayers of the saints and help from the Spirit of Jesus Christ despite those working against him (1:19). His ultimate desire is that "Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death" (Philippians 1:20). Because of his love for and commitment to Christ, Paul’s main concern is that Christ will be highly honored whether by life or by death (1:20).
Paul's profound statement, "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain" (Philippians 1:21), encapsulates his entire worldview. Without a hint of exaggeration or bravado, Paul writes, For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain (1:21). Paul’s purpose was to glorify Christ, come what may. The Lord Jesus was his all-consuming focus. For Paul, life is defined by Christ, and death is not to be feared, but welcomed as an entrance into His presence. He even admits his desire to depart and be with Christ—which is far better than remaining alive in this fallen world (1:23).
While Paul longs to be with Christ, he recognizes that his continued ministry is "more necessary" for the sake of the Philippians (Philippians 1:24). Ministry requires self-sacrifice, and Paul was pleased to contribute to the spiritual growth of others so that their boasting in Christ Jesus could abound (1:26). He anticipates that his return will lead to "greater rejoicing in Christ Jesus" for them (Philippians 1:26). By willingly laying down his life for the Philippians, Paul was simply following in the footsteps of his Master, Jesus Christ.
Paul urges the Philippians to "live in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ" (Philippians 1:27). Paul wants to make sure these Philippian believers will honor Christ no matter what happens to him—whether I come and see you or am absent. He doesn’t know what the future holds for him, but he wants them to be strong and unified in the faith and in the gospel, living courageously for Christ and modeling faith to a watching world despite opposition. This involves standing firm in "one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel" (Philippians 1:27). Their unity is also crucial to Paul because division can hurt the spread of the gospel (see 2:1-4; 4:2-3). Paul’s hope is to hear of them standing firm in one spirit, in one accord, contending together for the faith of the gospel.
Furthermore, they are not to be "frightened in anything by [their] opponents" (Philippians 1:28). Courage is crucial to our gospel witness. Paul says the Philippian Christians’ unashamed witness is a sign of destruction for their opponents but one indicating their own salvation. Their courage in the face of opposition is a sign of God's favor, both for their salvation and for the judgment of their adversaries. Of course, all of this is from God, the sovereign King who can embolden failing hearts and eradicate stumbling blocks.
Paul reminds them that suffering for Christ is not an anomaly, but a privilege: "For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake" (Philippians 1:29). Paul goes so far as to say that their suffering is a sign of God’s favor: For it has been granted to you on Christ’s behalf not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him. Suffering may appear to be a strange gift, but it’s not. Suffering for the sake of Christ is purposeful, not purposeless. He allows it for our good and for his glory—and that makes all the difference. They are engaged in the same struggle that Paul is experiencing (Philippians 1:30).
Philippians 1 provides a powerful introduction to Paul's letter, emphasizing the importance of gospel partnership, the advancement of the gospel even in suffering, and the ultimate gain found in Christ. It calls believers to live lives worthy of the gospel, marked by love, unity, courage, and a willingness to suffer for His name. Believers in Jesus Christ are called to take a stand for the gospel in love and truth regardless of repercussions, knowing that some people will support us and others will oppose us. That’s to be expected. The goal, whether it leads to life or death, is to make Christ look good and glorify his name. He takes note of everything and will not forget it. The Philippians endured the same struggle as Paul. And we too are called to live for Christ despite struggle and opposition. Far from being a miserable existence, though, this is the only way to find true life and purpose. The one who lived for us, died for us, and rose to live again calls us to experience the only life that is truly life.
Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:
Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,
Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,
For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;
Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.
For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.
And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment;
That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;
Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.
But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;
So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places;
And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.
Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:
The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:
But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.
What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.
For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,
According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.
For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.
For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:
Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.
And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;
That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again.
Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;
And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.
For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;
Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.
Philippians 1 introduces us to the heart of Paul's letter to the Philippian church, a vibrant community he deeply loved. Often called "the epistle of joy," Philippians radiates gratitude, strength, and an unwavering focus on the Christian life. This chapter lays the foundation for the themes Paul will explore, including the importance of gospel partnership, the progress of the gospel even in suffering, and the ultimate gain found in Christ, whether living or dying. Paul uses this chapter to encourage the Philippians by reminding them that God can use every experience, positive or negative, for His glory. This sets the tone for the rest of the letter, where Paul will continue to emphasize the importance of living out the Christian life, starting with the right attitude and approach.
Introduction: Authors, Audience, and Grace (Philippians 1:1-2)
The letter opens with Paul and Timothy identifying themselves not as apostles demanding respect, but as "servants of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:1). This humble self-designation sets the tone for the entire letter, foreshadowing the emphasis on humility and service that Paul will develop further in chapter 2. Paul includes Timothy, his trusted companion and "son in the faith," acknowledging Timothy's prior ministry in the Philippian region (Acts 16:1-15).
Paul addresses "all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the overseers and deacons" (Philippians 1:1). This inclusive greeting acknowledges the entire congregation, while specifically recognizing the leaders – the overseers (bishops or elders) and deacons – who were entrusted with guiding and serving the church. The Philippian church, about twelve years old at the time of writing, had clearly matured in faith and developed a strong leadership structure. The mention of deacons is noteworthy as 1 Timothy 3 is the only other New Testament book to specifically speak of deacons.
The introduction concludes with a concise yet profound summary of the gospel: "Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ" (Philippians 1:2). This blessing encapsulates the core of Christian experience: God's unmerited favor (grace) bringing wholeness and reconciliation (peace) through Jesus Christ.
Thanksgiving and Prayer for the Philippians (Philippians 1:3-11)
Paul immediately expresses his deep gratitude to God for the Philippians: "I thank my God in all my remembrance of you" (Philippians 1:3). Years after his initial ministry in Philippi (Acts 16:11-40), the church remained constantly in his thoughts and prayers. He cherishes their value to him as a church and as brothers and sisters in Christ, missing them and desiring their welfare and blessing. This heartfelt thanksgiving stems from their ongoing "partnership in the gospel from the first day until now" (Philippians 1:5). He rejoices in their shared mission. This "partnership" refers to their consistent support of Paul's ministry, both spiritually and materially.
Paul expresses confidence that God, who initiated this "good work" in them, "will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ" (Philippians 1:6). This is a powerful reminder that God is faithful to finish what He starts. While people often start projects with enthusiasm only to see their zeal fade, God is not like us. He never undertakes anything that he doesn’t finish. When he begins a good work in a believer’s heart, it’s as good as done.
Paul's affection for the Philippians is rooted in their shared grace and their unwavering support of his ministry, even during his imprisonment. He considers them partners in grace because they supported him in his imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel (Philippians 1:7). They were not fair-weather Christians; when the gospel was spreading powerfully, they supported him, and when Paul's ministry landed him in jail, they remained true to him. His deep connection with them is evident in his words: "For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:8).
Paul's prayer for the Philippians focuses on their spiritual growth: "that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment" (Philippians 1:9). He desires that their love be informed by truth, rooted in knowledge and discernment, not mere sentimental emotion. Discerning love helps us approve the things that are superior so that we don’t waste our lives on inferior things (Philippians 1:10). This will lead them to "approve what is excellent, so that you may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God" (Philippians 1:10-11). Ultimately, Paul prays that their lives will be characterized by righteousness, bearing fruit that brings glory to God.
The Progress of the Gospel (Philippians 1:12-18)
Paul addresses his current circumstances, his imprisonment, not as a setback, but as an opportunity for the gospel to advance. He wants the Philippians to know that God is using his suffering to promote the gospel. He explains, "I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel" (Philippians 1:12). His imprisonment has become widely known "throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest" (Philippians 1:13). All of the guards knew about his faith, and Paul was clearly willing to preach to his own captors.
Furthermore, Paul's chains have emboldened other believers to speak the word of God "with greater boldness and without fear" (Philippians 1:14). Other Christians were emboldened because they knew that Paul’s imprisonment was for Christ (Philippians 1:13). They gained confidence and spoke the word fearlessly because of him (Philippians 1:14). This brings up an important point: The gospel is not hindered by struggle and persecution when they are tied to our faith and witness.
Interestingly, Paul acknowledges that some preach Christ "from envy and rivalry," while others do so "from good will" (Philippians 1:15). Some detractors were jealous of Paul’s impact and giftedness. Such people proclaimed Christ out of selfish ambition (Philippians 1:15). They wanted to see Paul even more troubled (Philippians 1:17)! Thankfully, many others preached Christ out of good will and love (Philippians 1:15-16). Regardless of their motives, Paul rejoices that "Christ is proclaimed" (Philippians 1:18). It takes a radical kind of God-centeredness to rejoice in gospel proclamation—even when the preachers intend your harm (1:18). But as long as Jesus was exalted and people were believing in him, Paul was content.
To Live is Christ, and to Die is Gain (Philippians 1:19-30)
Paul expresses his confidence that through the prayers of the Philippians and the help of the Spirit, he will be delivered (Philippians 1:19). He declares that he will be vindicated through the prayers of the saints and help from the Spirit of Jesus Christ despite those working against him (1:19). His ultimate desire is that "Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death" (Philippians 1:20). Because of his love for and commitment to Christ, Paul’s main concern is that Christ will be highly honored whether by life or by death (1:20).
Paul's profound statement, "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain" (Philippians 1:21), encapsulates his entire worldview. Without a hint of exaggeration or bravado, Paul writes, For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain (1:21). Paul’s purpose was to glorify Christ, come what may. The Lord Jesus was his all-consuming focus. For Paul, life is defined by Christ, and death is not to be feared, but welcomed as an entrance into His presence. He even admits his desire to depart and be with Christ—which is far better than remaining alive in this fallen world (1:23).
While Paul longs to be with Christ, he recognizes that his continued ministry is "more necessary" for the sake of the Philippians (Philippians 1:24). Ministry requires self-sacrifice, and Paul was pleased to contribute to the spiritual growth of others so that their boasting in Christ Jesus could abound (1:26). He anticipates that his return will lead to "greater rejoicing in Christ Jesus" for them (Philippians 1:26). By willingly laying down his life for the Philippians, Paul was simply following in the footsteps of his Master, Jesus Christ.
Paul urges the Philippians to "live in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ" (Philippians 1:27). Paul wants to make sure these Philippian believers will honor Christ no matter what happens to him—whether I come and see you or am absent. He doesn’t know what the future holds for him, but he wants them to be strong and unified in the faith and in the gospel, living courageously for Christ and modeling faith to a watching world despite opposition. This involves standing firm in "one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel" (Philippians 1:27). Their unity is also crucial to Paul because division can hurt the spread of the gospel (see 2:1-4; 4:2-3). Paul’s hope is to hear of them standing firm in one spirit, in one accord, contending together for the faith of the gospel.
Furthermore, they are not to be "frightened in anything by [their] opponents" (Philippians 1:28). Courage is crucial to our gospel witness. Paul says the Philippian Christians’ unashamed witness is a sign of destruction for their opponents but one indicating their own salvation. Their courage in the face of opposition is a sign of God's favor, both for their salvation and for the judgment of their adversaries. Of course, all of this is from God, the sovereign King who can embolden failing hearts and eradicate stumbling blocks.
Paul reminds them that suffering for Christ is not an anomaly, but a privilege: "For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake" (Philippians 1:29). Paul goes so far as to say that their suffering is a sign of God’s favor: For it has been granted to you on Christ’s behalf not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him. Suffering may appear to be a strange gift, but it’s not. Suffering for the sake of Christ is purposeful, not purposeless. He allows it for our good and for his glory—and that makes all the difference. They are engaged in the same struggle that Paul is experiencing (Philippians 1:30).
Philippians 1 provides a powerful introduction to Paul's letter, emphasizing the importance of gospel partnership, the advancement of the gospel even in suffering, and the ultimate gain found in Christ. It calls believers to live lives worthy of the gospel, marked by love, unity, courage, and a willingness to suffer for His name. Believers in Jesus Christ are called to take a stand for the gospel in love and truth regardless of repercussions, knowing that some people will support us and others will oppose us. That’s to be expected. The goal, whether it leads to life or death, is to make Christ look good and glorify his name. He takes note of everything and will not forget it. The Philippians endured the same struggle as Paul. And we too are called to live for Christ despite struggle and opposition. Far from being a miserable existence, though, this is the only way to find true life and purpose. The one who lived for us, died for us, and rose to live again calls us to experience the only life that is truly life.