Key word: Joy
The epistle to the Philippian church has a more relaxed feel than that to the sin-laced Corinthians, the gospel-diluting Galatians, and the doctrinally-heavy Ephesians. There seems to be no major doctrinal issue at Philippi, unless it was some confusion over the nature of the incarnation. And no outstanding sins, which needed correction, except for that fact that they were having a problem getting along. As a matter of fact, unity is one of two major themes running through the letter. We see this need for unity best in 2:1-2. The remedy for disunity is having the attitude of Christ (2:5), which was that of a humble servant. The opposing attitudes are mentioned in the letter: selfcenteredness (2:21), and Christ-centeredness (1:21), which will be our key verse.
There is another theme found in the epistle – that of joy. The words “joy” or “rejoice” are used 17 times in this little letter. But Paul’s joy was not found in creature comforts – after all, he was a prisoner in Rome. But he rejoices because the gospel is being proclaimed (1:18), because the Lord uses him (1:25), when he witnesses harmony in the church (2:2), when they maintain doctrinal purity (3:1), in his fellowship with fellow believers (4:1), when God’s people are living in relational and personal peace (4:4, 5-9). Conflict, either outward or inward robs us of joy and peace. Therefore, Paul calls on the Philippian believers to lay aside their anxiety, let their minds dwell in the virtues of Christ, and practice the lifestyle Paul had modeled for them (4:5-9).
Paul closes by rejoicing in God’s financial provisions for both himself and the Philippian church. Joy is found in Christ and the strength He provides (1:21, 4:13).
Key verse: Philippians 1:21 – For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
