Introduction to Philippians GR 616

Philippians is Paul's most personal letter to a church. It is a book which shows the practical application of Christian truth to everyday living. The last chapter is especially practical in this regard and is sometimes referred to as the Christian counselor's handbook. But while writing an intensely practical book to these believers, Paul did not avoid the weightier matter of doctrine. The second chapter contains one of the most significant doctrinal passages on the incarnation of Christ to be found anywhere in the Scriptures. The theme of this epistle is Joy in Unity. The joy of these believers is not based on favorable external circumstances. Indeed, they faced few such luxuries in their day as believers were frequently called on to suffer for their faith in Christ. Rather, their joy is based on their confidence in God as the God of their circumstances.