The Epistle to the Philippians, one of the Apostle Paul's most personal and affectionate letters, provides a rich tapestry of historical, cultural, and theological insights. Understanding the historical background of Philippians not only enhances our comprehension of the text but also deepens our appreciation for the enduring relationship between Paul and the believers in Philippi.
The City of Philippi
Philippi was a significant city in the region of Macedonia, located in northeastern Greece. Founded by King Philip II of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great, around 356 B.C., the city bore his name and became a strategic military and economic hub. Its prominence grew further after the famous Battle of Philippi in 42 B.C., where the forces of Mark Antony and Octavian defeated those of Brutus and Cassius, the assassins of Julius Caesar. Following this decisive battle, Philippi was established as a Roman colony, which conferred upon its inhabitants the privileges of Roman citizenship, including exemption from certain taxes and the right to own land.
As a Roman colony, Philippi was heavily influenced by Roman culture, law, and governance. The city was also situated along the Via Egnatia, a major Roman road connecting the eastern provinces of the Empire with Rome. This strategic location made Philippi a bustling center of trade and communication, attracting a diverse population including Romans, Greeks, and Thracians.
The Founding of the Church in Philippi
The establishment of the church in Philippi is recounted in Acts 16:6-40. During his second missionary journey, Paul received a vision of a man from Macedonia pleading for help (Acts 16:9-10). Interpreting this vision as a divine call, Paul and his companions, including Silas, Timothy, and Luke, traveled to Macedonia and arrived in Philippi.
Upon reaching Philippi, Paul and his team sought out a place of prayer by the river, where they encountered a group of women. Among them was Lydia, a wealthy merchant dealing in purple cloth. Lydia, described as a worshiper of God, listened to Paul's message and, along with her household, was baptized (Acts 16:13-15). Lydia's conversion marked the beginning of the Philippian church, and her home likely served as the meeting place for the fledgling congregation.
The narrative in Acts 16 also recounts the dramatic events leading to the conversion of the Philippian jailer. After Paul and Silas were imprisoned for casting out a spirit from a slave girl, an earthquake miraculously freed them from their chains. The jailer, fearing the prisoners had escaped, was on the verge of suicide when Paul intervened, assuring him that all the prisoners were present. Deeply moved, the jailer asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" Paul and Silas responded, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household" (Acts 16:30-31). The jailer and his entire household were subsequently baptized, further strengthening the Philippian church.
The Relationship Between Paul and the Philippians
The bond between Paul and the Philippian believers was exceptionally strong and characterized by mutual love, respect, and support. Unlike some of Paul's other letters, which address doctrinal disputes or moral failings, Philippians is largely a letter of encouragement and gratitude. The Philippians had consistently supported Paul, both financially and through personal involvement, throughout his ministry.
Paul's deep affection for the Philippians is evident in the opening verses of the letter: "I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now" (Philippians 1:3-5). This partnership, or koinonia, underscores the close-knit relationship and shared mission between Paul and the Philippian church.
The Occasion and Purpose of the Letter
Paul wrote the Epistle to the Philippians during his imprisonment, likely in Rome, around A.D. 60-62. The letter was delivered by Epaphroditus, a member of the Philippian church who had been sent to assist Paul (Philippians 2:25). Epaphroditus had fallen seriously ill during his mission, but he recovered and was able to return to Philippi with Paul's letter.
Several factors prompted Paul to write this epistle. Firstly, he wanted to express his profound gratitude for the financial support the Philippians had sent through Epaphroditus. Paul acknowledges their generosity in Philippians 4:15-18, noting that they were the only church to share with him in the matter of giving and receiving during his early missionary efforts.
Secondly, Paul sought to encourage the Philippians in their faith and to reassure them regarding his own circumstances. Despite his imprisonment, Paul remained joyful and confident in the advancement of the gospel, famously declaring, "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain" (Philippians 1:21). He urged the Philippians to stand firm in their faith, to live in a manner worthy of the gospel, and to rejoice in the Lord always (Philippians 1:27, 4:4).
Thirdly, Paul addressed issues of unity and humility within the church. He exhorted the Philippians to be of one mind, having the same love, and to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Instead, they were to value others above themselves, following the example of Christ's humility and obedience (Philippians 2:1-8).
Theological Themes in Philippians
The Epistle to the Philippians is rich in theological content, offering insights into the nature of Christ, the Christian life, and the believer's relationship with God.
One of the most profound passages in Philippians is the Christ Hymn in Philippians 2:5-11. This passage, which many scholars believe to be an early Christian hymn, eloquently describes the incarnation, humility, and exaltation of Christ. Paul uses this hymn to illustrate the attitude believers should adopt, emphasizing Christ's self-emptying (kenosis) and obedience unto death.
Another key theme is joy. Despite his imprisonment and the challenges faced by the Philippians, Paul repeatedly emphasizes the importance of rejoicing in the Lord. This joy is not dependent on external circumstances but is rooted in the believer's relationship with Christ and the hope of salvation.
Paul also addresses the concept of righteousness through faith. In Philippians 3:7-11, he contrasts his former confidence in his Jewish heritage and adherence to the law with the surpassing worth of knowing Christ. Paul declares that he considers everything a loss compared to the greatness of knowing Christ Jesus and being found in Him, not having a righteousness of his own but that which comes through faith in Christ.
Conclusion
The historical background of Philippians provides a rich context for understanding the depth and significance of Paul's letter. The city of Philippi, with its Roman influences and strategic location, served as a fertile ground for the spread of the gospel. The founding of the church in Philippi, marked by the conversions of Lydia and the Philippian jailer, highlights the transformative power of the gospel.
The close relationship between Paul and the Philippians, characterized by mutual support and affection, is a testament to the power of Christian fellowship. Paul's letter, written from a place of imprisonment, is a remarkable expression of joy, gratitude, and encouragement. It addresses key theological themes such as the humility and exaltation of Christ, the joy of the Christian life, and the righteousness that comes through faith.
By delving into the historical background of Philippians, we gain a deeper appreciation for the timeless truths conveyed in this epistle and the enduring impact of Paul's ministry.
