A Journey through Philippi

Explore the vibrant Greco-Roman backdrop of the Apostle Paul's letter of Philippians. The Roman colony of Philippi was the first city Paul encountered as his missionary journeys expanded into Greece. Paul’s stop in Philippi proved eventful, including casting out a spirit from a servant girl and spending the night in the local jail. Lydia’s acceptance of the gospel message laid the foundation for the beginnings of the Philippian church.

The church in Philippi quickly became known for their generous support of Paul and his message. It was while under house arrest in Rome that Paul would pen his letter of Philippians. His primary message was that, while their earthly citizenship would draw them to the ascending path of honor and glory, their heavenly citizenship would call them to the descending path of servanthood. His encouragement was to follow the example of Christ and take the downward path.

When understood through the worldview of the original hearers – the Philippian church – many Greco-Roman threads can be traced through the letter of Philippians. These include the rights and responsibilities of Roman citizenship, the Roman cursus honorum, or path of honors, and the ancient Olympic games. Embark on a journey through Philippi in this comprehensive exploration of the biblical and historical landscape of the New Testament book of Philippians.