A Joy that Endures
Philippians is a book about an enduring Christ-centered joy in all things. It’s about Christian unity through the path of Christian humility. It’s also about standing firm in the face of persecution and rejoicing in all circumstances. As background, Philippi was a Roman colony known for its affluence and patriotism. It was named after Philip of Macadon, father of Alexander the Great. Its citizens were citizens of Rome, dressed like Romans and spoke Latin. They prided themselves on this affiliation.
The church at Philippi was the first ancient Jesus community that the apostle Paul started in Europe (in Acts 16). Fast forward a few years later, and Paul was put in prison, this church sent him a gift and he intended to thank them. In so doing, he was able to, with proper perspective, see his trial as fitting into the sovereign plan of God which resulted in the expansion of the gospel of Jesus Christ. For Paul, his life was defined by the story of Jesus, his humiliation which preceded his exaltation. Therefore, whether Paul went on living, or whether he was called to die, Paul was also living out the story of Jesus, which involved suffering for the glory of God. This is why the book centers around the beautiful kenosis hymn or poem of Philippians chapter 2 (Phil 2:6-11), and this helps us to see how living as a Christian is a way of living out this pattern which Jesus set before us.
Because of our relationship with Christ, and knowing Him, we can have an enduring joy. Knowing Christ is what we want to pursue above all else (Ch 3), this is what offers us joy and the peace that passes understanding, and this is the secret of contentment (Ch 4), no matter our circumstances. Like them, we too, can learn to do all things through Christ who strengthens us.
