Philippians 1:1-2 - Homilies By R. Finlayson

Introduction.

This Epistle of Paul breathes throughout the tenderest affection and most passionate longing toward the Philippians. It was called forth by a token of their affection in a contribution for his support sent by Epaphroditus. It is pervaded by a deeper tone of satisfaction than any other of his Epistles. It is characteristically epistolary in its freedom of plan and familiarity of expression. Written without a dogmatic purpose, there is one important doctrinal passage in it; and there is a breaking off to warn against two antagonistic types of error —Judaic formalism and antinomian licence. With all that was commendable in the Philippians, there was something of the spirit of rivalry among them. The counteracting of this gives, in several places, a turn to the thought.

I. ADDRESS .

1 . The writers. "Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus." The Philippians are so loyal to Paul that he does not need to make use of his official designation. He associates with himself Timothy, as both of them standing in common subordination to Christ as Savior. They are both his servants, i.e. bound to carry out the ends of his salvation. Timothy was known to the readers of this Epistle, as having assisted in the foundation of their Church and as having subsequently visited them. From the natural interest he thus had in them he was to be at no distant period Paul's ambassador for the purpose of inquiring into their state. There can be no doubt that Paul is properly the writer of the Epistle; for, in the third verse, Timothy is lost sight of, and, when he is afterward referred to, it is in the third person. At the same time, Timothy must be regarded as joining with Paul, not only in the salutation, but in the whole sentiment of the Epistle. Written down by him, or read over by him or to him, he was of one mind with Paul in every expression he used to the Philippian Church.

2 . The persons addressed.

II. THE SALUTATION (same as in Ephesians).

1 . The two words of salutation. "Grace to you and peace." The best security for others being blessed is the Divine graciousness which makes all the Divine dealings mean peace.

2 . The twofold source to which we look in salutation. "From God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." The Father who has blessed us bless them too. Jesus Christ, who has revealed the Father's power to bless, as Lord dispense to them out of the stores in his Father's house as he has dispensed to us.—R.F.