Philippians ?» Chapter 1 ?» exegesis

Philippians » Chapter 1 » exegesis

Introductory Matters

In grammar school I was taught some rudimentary rules about writing letters: that there are basically two types (personal/friendly and business); that one (business) has an inside address, while friendly letters do not; but that both begin and end the same way (with a greeting, such as “Dear Father,” and a closing, “Your son, Gordon”).

Letters in the Greco-Roman period had this pattern in reverse, with a threefold salutation at the beginning: “Gordon, to his father: Greetings.” Very often the next item in the letter was a wish (sometimes a prayer) for the health or well-being of the recipient. Paul’s letters, which follow this standard form, usually include a thanksgiving report and sometimes, as here, a prayer report (telling his recipients specifically how he prays for them). In contrast to most first-century letters, where (as in ours) these formal items were stereotyped, Paul tends to elaborate them; and in his hands they become distinctively Christian.

On this day...

• Christ is interceding on our behalf - 2011
• NECK OR NOTHING - 2009
• CAN YOU COME DOWN? - 2009
• THE OLD CROSS AND THE NEW - 2009
• one has begun to stop living - 2009
• Rejoice in knowing that you belong to God - 2009
• AND EVERY VIRTUE WE POSSESS - 2009
• God Gave Man a Harp - 2009
• Moses - Man of great faith - 2009
• The heavens declare the glory of God - 2009
• Acts 16:16-40 (GNT) - 2009
• Discerning What is False - 2009
• GETTING THERE - 2009
• John 16:8 - 2009
• Trading Spaces - Rubble Trouble - 2009