Philippians

Themes in Philippians

Theme 1: Becoming more like Christ and taking on his character traits of humility, peace, holiness, joy and generosity. Paul stated that Christ who began a good work in them would be faithful to complete it. ( 1:6). He prayed that the Philippians believers would have overflowing love, increased knowledge and insight and would be able to determine the path to holy living being pure and blameless. ( 1:9-11). They are told to be of the same mind, have the same love , be in one accord doing nothing out of selfish motives but in humility consider other people better than themselves. (2:1-3). Christians are to be people of peace, living without grumbling or bitterness. (2:14). Despite the hardships we face we are to continually rejoice in the Lord and be filled with joy. (4:4). Paul concluded his letter to the Philippians church by commending them for their generosity which was a fragrant offering to the Lord. (4:15-18)

Theme 2: The spread of the Gospel is the key mission of believers and our chief function is to be witnesses of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul encouraged the Philippians not to despair about his imprisonment but to be happy that the Gospel was spreading throughout all of the Emperor’s guards and that all knew his imprisonment was for Jesus Christ. (1:12-13). He also stated that despite the intentions or motives of some which were wrong, the important thing was that the Gospel was being spread. (1:18). Paul urged them to live lives worthy of the Gospel so that whether he was with them or absent from them , he could be encouraged that they were united and working together for the spread of the good news. (1:27). Thus the key mission for Christians is the proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Theme 3: Christ is to be the central focus of our life and we are not to focus on earthly things or boast about them but to focus on Jesus. Paul stated that all his accomplishments as a Pharisee and a person devoted to God were garbage and all that mattered was his salvation and relationship with Jesus Christ. (3:4-9). Paul told them that he wanted to know Christ and the power he had evidenced in his resurrection and to share in his sufferings. ( 3:10). He told them that he did not focus on the past but pressed on to what was ahead moving toward the call of Heaven and the call of Jesus Christ. (3:12). Finally he told the Philippians to focus on the true , honorable, just, commendable , pure , pleasing and praiseworthy things of God. (4:8).