Verse-by-Verse Commentary
The Book of Philippians
Philippians is Paul's letter of joy, written from prison to his beloved partners in the gospel. It overflows with rejoicing that circumstances cannot touch, holds up the humility of Christ as our pattern, and points to the peace of God that guards the heart. This commentary walks through it verse by verse.
About This Commentary
The Epistle to the Philippians was written by the apostle Paul from prison, likely in Rome around AD 61, to the church at Philippi, his beloved partners in the gospel. Though written in chains, it overflows with joy and thanksgiving. Paul writes to thank the Philippians for their support, to encourage them toward unity and humility, and to help them rejoice in the Lord in every circumstance.
This commentary covers Philippians verse by verse, with the Greek words that sharpen the meaning, verified background, and an Apostolic reading. The letter models a Christ-centered joy that chains cannot steal, holds up the self-emptying humility of Christ as the mind we are to have, and promises the peace of God that surpasses all understanding. References are given at the foot of each chapter.
This commentary on Philippians is now complete, covering all four chapters verse by verse.
Author
The apostle Paul, writing from prison.
Setting
Written to the church at Philippi, likely from Rome, around AD 61.
Key Themes
Joy in Christ, humility, unity, and the peace of God.
Famous Passages
The humility of Christ (2:5-11) and the peace of God (4:6-7).
Translation
King James Version (KJV) throughout.
The Chapters
Philippians Commentary
The chapters below are available now. The rest are being written and will open here as they are finished and verified.
Philippians 1:1-30
To Live Is Christ
Writing joyfully from prison, Paul is confident that God will complete the work He began, holds his life loosely because to live is Christ and to die is gain, and calls for a life worthy of the gospel.
Read Chapter 1 →Philippians 2:1-30
Let This Mind Be in You
'Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus,' who, 'being in the form of God... made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant,' humbling Himself 'unto death, even the death of the cross.' Therefore God 'highly exalted him,' that 'at the name of Jesus every knee should bow' and 'every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.' We 'work out' our salvation because 'it is God which worketh in' us, and 'shine as lights in the world.'
Read Chapter 2 →Philippians 3:1-21
I Press Toward the Mark
Paul counts every fleshly advantage 'but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord,' seeking 'not... mine own righteousness... but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith.' Not yet perfect, he presses on, 'reaching forth unto those things which are before,' toward 'the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus,' with citizenship in heaven, awaiting 'the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.'
Read Chapter 3 →Philippians 4:1-23
The Peace of God
'Rejoice in the Lord alway,' and turn anxiety into prayer, for 'the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.' Think on 'whatsoever things are true... honest... just... pure... lovely.' Paul has learned contentment 'in whatsoever state,' for 'I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me,' and 'my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.'
Read Chapter 4 →