The Purpose of Paul's Letter

As I write this letter . . .



Paul writes his letter to the Philippians for the following reasons:

1. To thank them for a gift he's received from them (Phil 4:10-11).

2. To instruct them to receive Epaphroditus back into their fellowship (Phil. 2:29-30). Paul sent him back to Philippi for having an unpronounceable name! Actually Mr. E. was ill and Paul urged him to return to his home. E. was supposed to stay with Paul to assist him in his time of imprisonment. Paul wanted to make sure that the Philippians knew that Epaphroditus had not deserted Paul.

3. To encourage them during their time of trails and persecutions (Phil. 1:28-30).

4. To appeal for unity. Chapters 2 & 3 deal with this subject.

An early Christian writer named Polycarp was well aware of Paul's letters to the Philippians. He once wrote to them, "when he (Paul) was absent he wrote letters to you." I always get a kick out of the tarp company named, "Polytarp." Their founder must have studied early church history!

Let's begin.


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