Philippians — Faves of Dave - Bible Study

Phil. 1:1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus,

To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons:

Phil. 1:2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

This is a letter written by the Apostle Paul in the early 60s AD. It is one of four letters (Ephesians, Philemon, and Colossians) that he wrote while under house arrest. His incarceration was due to charges brought against him that stirred up people, and spoke contrary to the Jewish Law and against the temple. (Read Acts for Paul’s story of his conversion and ministry leading to his arrest.)

Some of Paul’s letters convey a clear message that his intended recipients have gone astray in their faith and worship and need correction. This letter to the church in Philippi (a city in Greece), is primarily a letter of encouragement.

He opens this letter by stating that this message is coming from himself and his disciple Timothy. Even though Timothy is younger and a disciple of Paul, Paul identifies them both as “servants of Christ Jesus.” This identifier is something we should not overlook. The Apostle Paul is often considered one of the most important and influential people in the Christian faith. Yet, he considers himself essentially a slave of Jesus Christ. In our society today, it is not uncommon for people to identify themselves with specific terms they believe elevate them as superior to others, rather than demeaning them. These identifiers might come in the form of denominational affiliation (Baptist, Methodist, Catholic, Lutheran, etc.), systematic theological convictions (Calvinist, Arminian, other) or other terms that may reflect cultural tendencies such as “Christ follower” or Christian. Think about what would happen in our society if those of us who claim to believe in and follow Jesus thought of ourselves and acted as though our primary identity was to do whatever Jesus might want us to do, and not concern ourselves with being “better than” or “more right” than others around us.

Paul then addressed his intended audience. They are all the saints, including those who serve in a specific capacity to the church. What Paul is about to share in this letter applies to every single believer at Philippi. Given that the Church has identified this letter as inspired by God and to be treated as holy Scripture, it would seem reasonable to suggest that, whether Paul understood it or not, the LORD wants us to receive the message of this letter as well. As with any other Scripture written to a specific audience, we ought to use discretion and discernment in how we do that.

After addressing all the saints in Philippi, Paul gives us a summary of what is on his heart for these believers. He wants them all to receive and experience grace and peace “from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” What a concise, but amazing expression of encouragement from Paul.

I write this blog post on January 1, 2026. Often, at the close of one year and the beginning of another, we reflect on the past as we anticipate what may come. We are aware of the challenges and trials of recent years and understand that the new year will bring its own set of trials. Yet, we seek and desire hope. What better encouragement than to anticipate God’s favor and peace that He offers through Christ Jesus.

May God’s favor and peace be upon you this coming year.