Philippians

1:3-10

Paul’s personal affection for the church, arising from their partnership in the Gospel (1:5), their prayers (1:19) and giving (4:10-19) is clear. The warmth he feels for these people permeates the whole letter.

1:19-26

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. (21) Always a striking statement of devotion and its radical consequences for how he views his life in the world.

1:27-30

Paul is concerned that the Philippian Church should avoid disputes, cultivate unity and resist opposition.

2:5-11

This passage is often referred to as the ‘Hymn of Christ’. See the Global Study Bible notes at https://www.esv.org/Philippians+2/ It’s not hard to imagine that this glorious study of the humility of Christ was composed for worship. Scholars note the language of Isaiah 45:22-24 used here, and particularly the affirmation of Jesus as ‘Lord’.

2:14-18

Lights in the world. A description of a way of life that is as different from life outside the church as light is from darkness.

3:2-11

Paul applies a term of abuse (dogs) apparently used sometimes by Jews about Gentiles, to the Judaizers who were teaching ritual observance of Jewish law. According to Paul, it is those who are 'in Christ', who worship by the Spirit and whose righteousness is based on faith in Jesus who are ‘the circumcision’, that is God’s own people. 

3:12-16

Paul's single-minded resolve is clear from his phrase ‘pressing on’ in verse 12. Here are two translations, with slightly different emphasis, but both worthy of reflection:

• Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. (NIV)

• Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. (ESV)

3:17-21

Paul instructs the Philippians to follow his example, in contrast to the ‘enemies of the cross of Christ’ (18). A reference either to the teachers of mere human religion in verse 2, or to the world in general. But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Saviour from there, the Lord Jesus Christ… (20)

4:1

Having celebrated the profound theological truths of the Gospel he now applies them practically to their situation. Therefore... stand firm...

4:4-7

Rejoice and don’t be anxious, but pray! NIV is simple and direct here:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

The ESV cross-reference to Matt 6:25-34 is helpful.

4:8-9

Whatever is true, whatever is honourable... Counsel for prayerful contemplation of 'things that inspire worship of God and service to others' [Global Study Bible notes]. This follows from rejecting anxiety in favour of prayer (6) and from the peace guarding their hearts and minds (7).