Philippians study section

Philippians themes

Philippians develops joy in Christ, gospel partnership, the mind of Christ, and contentment.

1. Joy in Christ in All Circumstances

Paul rejoices, and calls the church to rejoice, even amid imprisonment and suffering, because joy flows not from circumstances but from the Lord. “Rejoice in the Lord always.”

2. Partnership in the Gospel

The Philippians share with Paul in the work and cost of the gospel through their prayers, gifts, and fellowship. Christian partnership binds believers together in a common cause and joy.

3. The Humility and Exaltation of Christ

The Christ hymn traces Jesus’ descent from glory to the cross and His exaltation as Lord. His self-emptying humility is both the ground of our salvation and the pattern for our life together.

4. Knowing Christ and Righteousness by Faith

Paul counts all his advantages as loss to gain Christ and to be found in Him, clothed in God’s righteousness through faith, not his own. Knowing Christ is the supreme treasure and goal.

5. Contentment and God’s Provision

Paul has “learned in whatever situation... to be content,” strengthened by Christ, and assures the church that “God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

6. Pressing On Toward the Goal

The Christian life is a race not yet finished; forgetting what lies behind, believers “press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus,” awaiting the transformation to come.