Chunks: Paul's Letter to the Philippians

Episode 64: You are not alone

Letters often ended with words of greeting: “Say hi to so-and-so” or “So-and-so says hi.” And in some ways, this is true of Paul’s letter to the Philippians. But Paul uses even this simple convention for a pastoral purpose: he wants the Philippians to know that God is at work, and that they are not alone.

Episode 63: Paid in full

Friendships in the ancient world carried reciprocal expectations. Paul has already used the language of the marketplace to speak of the Philippians’ gift as being “credited” to their account, and now he says that he’s “received full payment” (4:18). But it’s not that Paul thinks they owe him. He wants them to think of their friendship differently, as a three-way relationship that includes God.

Episode 62: It’s to your credit

Though Paul wants the Philippians to hear his gratitude, he also wants to make sure they hear it rightly. “It’s not about the gift itself,” he tells them, again, in a way that might sound a bit rude. But he points them instead to the deeper reason for his gratitude.

Episode 61: A friend in need is a friend indeed

The last words of a letter are important, especially in a context where letters to churches were read aloud. What thoughts would Paul want to leave ringing in the Philippians’ ears? The final theme is friendship, and Paul expresses deep appreciation for their loyal support over the years.

Episode 60: I can do all things

Philippians 4:13 is one of Paul’s best-known sayings, often rendered as "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" on Christian keepsakes. Taken out of context, it might sound like Paul is saying that God will him the power to do anything. But is that what he means?