Philippians: The joy of fellowship in the gospel

PostedJune 22, 2022

UpdatedFebruary 15, 2025

ByDNW

A. Introduction, 1:1-11

His greetings, 1:1-2
His thanksgiving, 1:3-8
- For their fellowship in the gospel
- For his confidence in Christ’s work
- For their partnership in grace
His prayer, 1:9-11
- That their love may abound
- That they may approve that which is excellent
- That they may be filled with the fruits of righteousness

His current experiences, 1:12-18
- His witness to the guards
- His impact on his brethren
- His rejoicing in the gospel
His future expectations, 1:19-26
- That he will be delivered
- That he will not be ashamed
- That Christ will be honoured in his body
- That he will remain in the flesh for their progress in the faith

For their unity of spirit, 1:27-2:11
- The call to unity, 1:27-30
- The ground of unity, 2:1-2
- The necessity of humility, 2:3-4
- The example of humility, 2:5-11
For their progress in the faith, 2:12-16
- Working out their salvation, 2:12-13
- Shining as lights in the world, 2:14-15
- Holding fast the word of life, 2:16
For their mutual encouragement, 2:17-30
- Through Paul’s example, 2:17-18
- Through Timothy’s example, 2:19-24
- Through Epaphroditus’ example, 2:25-30
For their doctrinal protection, 3:1-21
- From legalists, 3:1-16
  - His warning, 3:1-2
  - His testimony, 3:3-7
  - His goals, 3:8-14
  - His exhortation, 3:15-16
- From antinomians, 3:17-4:1
  - Follow my example, 3:17
  - His warning, 3:18-19
  - His reminder, 3:20-4:1
For their peace of mind, 4:2-9
- The role of joy, 4:2-5
- The role of prayer, 4:6-7
- The role of meditation, 4:8-9

For their expression of concern, 4:10-13
- Not that he speaks of his need
  - He has learned contentment
  - He has learned that his strength is in Christ
For their sharing in his distress, 4:14-20
- Not that he seeks the gift
  - He seeks fruit for their account
  - God will supply their need