Philippians - Conclusion

As Paul drew the letter to a conclusion, he thanked the Philippians for their giving, yet also shared the "secret" of contentment no matter the circumstances:  "I can do all this through him who gives me strength" (4:13).   Then, he could not help breaking out in doxology, giving glory to God as he declared that ""my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus" (4:19)

Throughout the book, Paul developed his theme of joy, starting by talking about joy and rejoicing, then rejoicing IN THE LORD, and then in Chp 4 "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"

 A summary of Philippians can be outlined with 4 "P"s:

• PRAYER - Paul started in Chapter 1 with prayer for the Philippians, and in Chp 4, encouraged them not to be anxious but to PRAY with thanksgiving
• PERSPECTIVE - Paul's perspective helped him to remain joyful despite circumstances, by seeing God at work, looking towards "the day of Christ", and recognizing that "to live is Christ and to die is gain".     He encouraged them to keep their minds on things excellent and praiseworthy; and to see that there is nothing that compares with "the surpassing worth of knowing Christ"
• PURPOSE- Paul encouraged them to follow godly examples, with Christ as the ultimate example, pressing on toward the goal of being like Christ in glory.  He encouraged to live OUT what God as doing IN them, shining as lights and holding forth the gospel.
• PARTNERSHIP - Not only were the Philippians partners with Paul in ministry and giving; they were partners with each other, encouraged to serve together in UNITY