New Testament · Epistle
The Book of Philippians
Rejoice in the Lord always.
Paul's joyful letter from prison celebrates Christ, partnership in the gospel, and the peace of God.
Author and background of Philippians
Author
Paul
Date written
c. AD 61
Original audience
Church in Philippi.
Written from prison to a beloved church.
Major themes of Philippians
The theology of Philippians centers on god's character and glory and sin, grace, and redemption. Trace these threads as you read.
God's character and glory
Every page reveals more of who God is — His holiness, mercy, and steadfast love.
Sin, grace, and redemption
Scripture diagnoses our brokenness honestly and points us to the rescue God provides.
Covenant and promise
God binds Himself to His people in faithful, unbreakable promises fulfilled in Christ.
Worship and obedience
Faith expresses itself in a life of worship, repentance, and joyful obedience.
Key characters in Philippians
Paul
Joyful prisoner.
Timothy & Epaphroditus
Faithful partners.
Every chapter of Philippians explained
Verse-by-verse explanations and reflections for every chapter of Philippians — ideal for personal study, devotionals, and small group discussion.
Key verses from Philippians
"To live is Christ, and to die is gain."
"Do not be anxious about anything..."
How to apply Philippians today
Philippians is not just history — it is God's Word for your life this week. Try these practical steps:
- Read prayerfully, asking the Spirit to teach and convict you.
- Identify one truth about God and one truth about yourself in every chapter.
- Look for Christ — every book testifies of Him (Luke 24:27).
- Turn what you read into prayer and obedience this week.
Pray Philippians back to God
- Father, open my eyes to behold wondrous things in Your Word (Ps. 119:18).
- Lord, give me a soft heart that trembles at Your Word (Isa. 66:2).
- Spirit of God, conform me to Christ as I read.
- Help me to be a doer of the Word and not a hearer only (James 1:22).
Study Philippians more deeply
Explore themes, characters, historical context, application guides, and devotionals built for Philippians.
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Philippians — Dennis Johnson
Christ-centered commentary on Philippians.
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The Message of Philippians — Alec Motyer
Classic devotional-scholarly commentary.
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Bible study journal
A journal for notes, prayer, and reflection as you work through this content.
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Philippians — frequently asked questions
+Who wrote the book of Philippians?
Paul — written around c. AD 61.
+What is the main message of Philippians?
Rejoice in the Lord always.
+How many chapters are in Philippians?
Philippians has 4 chapters.
+Who was Philippians written to?
Church in Philippi.
+What are the key themes of Philippians?
God's character and glory; Sin, grace, and redemption; Covenant and promise; Worship and obedience.