Philippians study section

Philippians chapter summaries

A one-line summary of every chapter. Open any chapter for the full study.

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Chapter list

Chapter 1

To Live Is Christ

Paul’s thanksgiving and joy over the Philippians’ partnership, his confidence that his imprisonment has advanced the gospel, and his resolve that “to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

  • Chapter 1 (c. AD 62): Paul gives thanks for the Philippians, rejoices that his chains advance the gospel, and declares, “To me to live is Christ.”

Chapter 2

The Mind of Christ

The call to humble, unified, self-giving love, grounded in the great hymn of Christ’s descent from glory to the cross and His exaltation as Lord, with the examples of Timothy and Epaphroditus.

  • Chapter 2 (c. AD 62): The call to the humble mind of Christ, who emptied Himself and was exalted as Lord, with Timothy and Epaphroditus as examples.

Chapter 3

Pressing On

A warning against confidence in the flesh, Paul’s counting all things as loss to gain Christ and His righteousness by faith, and his straining forward toward the goal.

  • Chapter 3 (c. AD 62): Paul counts all his gains as loss to know Christ and gain His righteousness, and presses on toward the heavenly goal.

Chapter 4

Rejoice and Be Content

A call to unity, joy, prayer, and right thinking, and Paul’s testimony of contentment and strength in Christ, with thanks for the Philippians’ gift.

  • Chapter 4 (c. AD 62): Rejoice always, be anxious for nothing, think on what is excellent, and be content and strengthened in Christ.

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