86 Philipians

Philippians: Another group of people Paul is writing to.

Paul writes again. This time he's writing with his pal, Timothy, and he's sending this special letter to the church in Philippi. Paul is pleased with everyone. He compliments them on their generosity to him. Also, all the work they've done helping him spread the gospel. Paul recognizes their good work and hopes that they've got even more in them. That way, when Jesus comes again, he'll be able to see how incredibly awesome they are right away. Paul's writing this letter from prison and Paul sees his imprisonment as a good thing. For example, all the prison guards know he's there for Jesus, so that's a plus. He also thinks that other Christians are inspired by his devotion to Christ. Actually, some of Paul's Christian enemies have been taking digs at him while he's in prison, too. They've got "selfish" motives and they like to kick a guy when he's down. But Paul's not sweating it. Even if these guys are acting like jerks, they're still telling people about Jesus in the process, and that's good enough for Paul. So he's in a pretty good mood, even though things aren't looking that good for him. Paul's in jail now and getting ready for his upcoming trial. It's quite possible that the authorities might decide to sentence him to death. Personally, Paul doesn't care whether he lives or dies. Actually, he might prefer death, since that means he gets to go home with Jesus a little earlier than planned. But living might be all right, too, since the Philippians would probably like to see him again. That is the question. He hopes that they're acting like upstanding Christian citizens while he's not there. Paul also doesn't want them to back down from the naysayers who oppose him. He knows that the folks in the church are struggling now, but really, suffering for Jesus is a good thing.

Paul keeps encouraging. He tells the Philippians that they should stick together and love each other. Don't be selfish or arrogant, just look out for each other. Sharing is caring. Jesus should be their role model. Even though he was equal with God, Jesus didn't walk around like some big shot all the time. He actually did the opposite. He lowered himself to become human, almost as low as a slave. He was so humble that he even died on the cross just to prove how great God was. Because of that, God declared Jesus to be the most awesome guy on Earth. Everyone should pretty much bow down and worship him whenever they get the chance. So, Philippians, just try to be like that. Don't complain and argue all the time, and you'll "shine like stars" in this dark and dreary world. As long as they're keeping the faith, Paul can be proud of the work he's done there. It makes prison seem a whole lot more bearable. Pretty soon, Timothy will probably come see them. Timothy really stands out from other Christians. He really cares about the Philippians. He's been like a son to Paul. Paul's also gonna send Epaphroditus their way, too. He was sick and almost died, but he's doing much better now.

Paul warns the Philippians to watch out for "evil workers" who "mutilate the flesh." He means Christians who advocate for circumcision. Paul says that real Christians don't need to worry about being physically circumcised. They're spiritually circumcised. Circumcision in the Old Testament is the equivalent of baptism in the New Testament. Both baptism and circumcision have the same purpose—to terminate our natural being and bring us into resurrection. Trust him—Paul knows a thing or two about being circumcised. He was born a Jew and was circumcised when he was only eight days old. He's descended from the tribe of Benjamin ( That's Jacob's youngest son from way back in Genesis). Paul even grew up to be a Pharisee. Paul was so into obeying Jewish law that he used his free time to persecute Christians. He regrets that now. But whatever good stuff Paul had going for him back then, he threw it all away when he came to believe in Jesus. Now, his relationship with God comes through Jesus—not from Jewish law. Paul's main goal is to become closer to Jesus by suffering like him and even dying if need be. We'd say Paul's well on his way. Of course, he's not there yet. He really would like to be like Jesus, but he has to keep struggling and fighting every day to live the kind of life God wants for him. So does everyone else.. Paul tells the Philippians that they should try to be just like him. They shouldn't worry about what goes in their stomachs (like some Christians Paul won't name here). They need to keep their focus on Jesus alone.

Paul starts to wrap up his letter with some mentions. Euodia and Syntyche: you ladies need to start getting along. Paul's is big into everyone getting along. He asks someone else (who's not named) to step in and help mend fences here if need be. Paul also doesn't want the Philippians to worry. Instead, they should be happy and joyful when they think of God. He'll put them at peace no matter what's going on. In fact, they should think of good things—that'll help them keep those peaceful, easy feelings coming. And Paul thanks for the gifts. Paul totally appreciates it. He's learned to go without in situations like this, but he's so touched that they thought of him and sent him some good things in prison. The Philippians have always been like this. No other church has helped Paul out as much as them. Even when he was in Thessalonica, they supported him on more than one occasion. Peace, love, and lots of greetings to everyone there!