Philippians 1 Commentary
Jesus is called “Christ Jesus” twice in verse 1. He is called “Lord Jesus Christ” in verse 2. These are but names; yet we know Paul is calling Jesus by who He is – a prefix of expectations.
The Philippians were a church that partnered with Paul by providing logistical support for Paul’s missionary trips. He is grateful to God. He prays for them with joy. But Paul knows the church is simply a tool in God’s hand. Verse 6.
Check verses 10 and 11 and see how Jesus is addressed: Simply “Christ” in verse 11 and “Jesus Christ” in verse 11. You see different offices and time slots. The Army Commander will forever address the Head of State as the Command-In-Chief while others may address him or her as simply “President”. There are two different offices through one.
The details in Chapter 1 give away Paul’s current location. He is in Rome under guard. Verse 14 is strange because it gives us yet another reason for suffering. “Brothers and sisters have become more confident in the LORD and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.”
If the devil knows this turn of events – that more proclaim the gospel fearlessly, you guess he would think twice before putting Paul in chains! But the Master is always up to something amazing! An apparent moment of sadness becomes a moment of praise! Who wins against God!
There is more. Because of Paul’s restriction, we have this epistle. A Paul who couldn’t visit churches in person could write! Who wins against God!
Paul epitomizes the saint’s perfect response in situations of intense suffering. Death is a great gain to the saint. Life isn’t a bad option either. Like their Master, what can you do to these people to flatten them! Life doesn’t threaten them; death is their gateway to the paradise of Christ. How they have longed for a meeting with their Master in paradise!
Verse 29 is fully understood. “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him”.
More resources visit http://lovingscripture.com
LOVING SCRIPTURE 