Book of Philippians

Paul writes a thank-you note to the believers at Philippi for their help in his hour of need, and he uses the occasion to send along some instruction on Christian unity. His central thought is simple: Only in Christ are real unity and joy possible. With Christ as your model of humility and service, you can enjoy of oneness and purpose, attitude, goal, and labor - a truth which Paul illustrates from his own life, and one of the Philippians desperately need to hear. Within their own ranks, fellow workers in the Philippian church are at odds, hindering the work in proclaiming new life in Christ. Because of this, Paul exhorts the church in "stand fast ... be of the same mind ... rejoice in the Lord always ... but in everything in prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known ... and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (4:1, 2, 4, 6, 7).

This epistle is called Pros Philippesious, "To the Philippians." The church at Philippi was the first church that Paul founded in Macedonia.