Philippians CommentaryThe Bible Says Commentary on Philippians

The book of Philippians, written by the Apostle Paul around AD 60-62, is a heartfelt letter of encouragement and joy. Paul wrote it from a Roman prison, where he was under house arrest, awaiting trial before the Emperor. Despite his confinement, Paul expresses his thankfulness for the believers in Philippi, who had supported him both financially and through prayer. He reminds them that “He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus” (1:6), revealing his confidence in God’s ongoing work in their lives.

Philippi was a major Roman colony located in Macedonia, in the northern region of what is now Greece. It was situated on the major trade route known as the Via Egnatia, which connected the Eastern provinces with Rome. Because of its strategic position and Roman influence, the church at Philippi found itself in a bustling multicultural environment, encountering many philosophies and religious practices. Paul uses this context to exhort the believers to be united in love, humility, and service to one another.

A central theme of Philippians is the humble example of Jesus Christ. Paul urges his readers to adopt this mindset of selfless love and humility: “Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus” (2:5). He highlights that Jesus, though God, humbled Himself in obedience, showing believers how to love sacrificially. Paul then calls them to rejoice in all circumstances, declaring, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!” (4:4), a remarkable encouragement given his own circumstances of imprisonment.

Paul’s letter ends with an expression of gratitude for the Philippians’ care and support, reminding them that God will supply all their needs in Christ. Throughout the epistle, his deep affection for the church shines through, revealing that the partnership between Paul and the believers in Philippi was rooted in genuine friendship and mutual commitment to the gospel. Philippians remains a powerful testament to God’s faithfulness, calling Christians everywhere to pursue unity, humility, and joy amid both trials and blessings.