Read Philippians 1:27-30

   Paul encouraged the believers to be unified, as they stood side by side, fighting together for the Gospel. How sad that much time and effort are lost in some churches by fighting against one another instead of uniting against the real opposition. It takes a courageous church to resist infighting and to maintain the common purpose of serving Christ. 

Read Philippians 1:20-26

   To those who don’t believe in God, life on earth is all there is, and so it is natural for them to strive for this world’s values: money, popularity, power, pleasure, and prestige. For Paul, however, to live meant to develop eternal values and to tell others about Christ, who alone could help them see life from an eternal perspective. Paul’s whole purpose in life was to speak out boldly for Christ and become more like Him. Thus, Paul could confidently say that dying would be even better than living, because in death he would be removed from worldly troubles, and he would see Christ face to face (1 John 3). If you’re not ready to die, then you’re not ready to live. Make certain of your eternal destiny; then you will be free to serve: Devoting your life to what really counts, without fear of death. 

Read Philippians 1:12-19

   How did Paul end up in chains in a Roman prison? While he was visiting Jerusalem, some Jews had him arrested for preaching the Gospel, but he appealed to Caesar to hear his case (Acts 21 thru 25). He was then escorted by soldiers to Rome, where he was placed under house arrest while awaiting trial: Not a trial for breaking civil law, but for proclaiming the Gospel of Christ.At that time, the Roman authorities did not consider this to be a serious charge. A few years later, however, Rome would take a different view of Christianity and make every effort to stamp it out of existence. Paul’s house arrest allowed him some degree of freedom. He could have visitors, continue to preach, and write letters such as this one. A brief record of Paul’s time in Rome is found in Acts 28. 

Read Philippians 1:3-11

   This is the first of many times Paul uses the word joy in his letter. The Philippians were remembered with joy and thanksgiving whenever Paul prayed. By helping Paul, they were helping Christ’s cause. The Philippians were willing to be used by God for whatever he wanted them to do. When others think about you, what comes to their minds? Are you remembered with joy by them? Do your acts of kindness lift up others? 

Read Philippians 1:1-2

 

   This is a personal letter to the Philippians, not intended for general circulation to all the churches, as was the letter to the Ephesians. Paul wanted to thank the believers for helping him when he had need. He also wanted to tell them why he could be full of joy despite his imprisonment and upcoming trial. In this uplifting letter, Paul counseled the Philippians about humility and unity and warned them about potential problems. 

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