Pauline Epistles · New Testament

Philippians

c. AD 61

Section: Pauline Epistles · New Testament
Events span: c. AD 61
Written: c. AD 61, from Roman imprisonment
Author: Paul the Apostle

Writing from prison with remarkable joy, Paul thanks the Philippians for their partnership and urges them to rejoice always. He points to Christ's humility as the pattern for unity, counts all things loss for knowing Christ, and promises the peace of God that passes understanding.

Key themes

Joy in all circumstances
Christ's humility and exaltation
Unity and humility
Knowing Christ
The peace of God

The letter's message

Paul rejoices that even his imprisonment has served to advance the gospel Phil 1c. AD 61
The mind of Christ, who humbled himself to death and was highly exalted Phil 2c. AD 61
Paul counts all things loss for the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Phil 3c. AD 61
"Rejoice in the Lord alway"; the peace of God guards the heart Phil 4c. AD 61
Contentment in every circumstance through Christ who gives strength Phil 4c. AD 61

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

Philippians 4:13 KJV