Name
The title “Philippians” comes from the intended audience designated in 1:1, “To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi.” The epistle’s body makes it clear that Paul’s intended audience in Philippi is both Jewish and Gentile Christians.
Author
Paul claims the authorship of Philippians in 1:1. Also attesting to Pauline authorship is the description of his life in Philippians 3:4-6. Additionally, the first-person pronouns “i” and “my” appear 51 times.
Externally, many early church fathers attribute the book of Philippians to Paul, including Clement of Rome, Ignatius, Polycarp, Irenaeus, Clement of Alexandria, and Tertullian of Carthage.
Genre
Epistle
Literary Form
The epistle to the Philippians is a personal letter that includes a section written as poetry (2:5-11) that may have been an early hymn.
Time Frame
Paul was in prison in Rome in A.D. 60-61 when he wrote the letter to the Philippians.
Emphasis
The emphasis of Philippians is on Paul’s explanation for his situation in Rome, an exhortation to the Philippians to remain united in the faith, a warning to be wary of those Judaizers who preach legalism, the importance of remaining steadfast in the faith, and to thank the Philippians for their support of him while he was imprisoned.
Outline
- Introduction (1:1-2)
- Prayer of Thanksgiving (1:3-1:11)
- Paul’s testimony to the saints (1:12-1:30)
- Exhortations to living the Christian life (2:1-4:9)
- Final thanks, greeting, and benediction (4:10-4:23)
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