“Look at the Book” is Bible Gateway’s series of short blog posts and infographics introducing you to the books of the Bible. Besides including several of the Bible’s most-searched verses, Paul’s brief Letter to the Philippians is also one of its most joyful books.
Scroll to the bottom if you’d prefer to see (and save) this article as an infographic. You’ll also find a handy 30-day reading guide. Or, for a challenge, you can do it in one week using the 7-day reading guide below.
Summary
Encourages believers to be unified and not allow divisions to come between them. Paul also exhorts them to stand firm in the face of persecution and rejoice regardless of their circumstances.
- Category: Epistle
- Theme: Joy
- Timeline: Written around AD 61
Key Verse
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” — Philippians 4:13 (NIV)
Jesus in the Middle
Themes in Philippians:
- Love-filled prayer (Ch. 1)
- Humility and exaltation of Jesus (Ch. 2)
- Human righteousness vs. divine righteousness (Ch. 3)
- Keep your eyes on Jesus (Ch. 4)
The heartbeat of Philippians is for believers to have a Jesus centered vision of life. How do we find joy in all of life’s ups and downs? How do we grow in contentment and generosity? Where should our focus be so that our life makes sense? Jesus!
7 Day Reading Guide
(See 30-day guide below.)
- Day 1: Philippians 1
- Day 2: Philippians 2
- Day 3: Philippians 3
- Day 4: Philippians 4
- Day 5: Colossians 1
- Day 6: Colossians 2
- Day 7: Colossians 3-4
Ode to Joy
Philippians is Paul’s most joyful epistle, and he uses the word “joy” some sixteen times in the letter.
Access the rest of the series. Browse Bible studies for each book of the Bible. Or right-click on the infographic below to download and save the image for your reference.
Chris Fann is the Senior Digital Marketing Manager for Harper Christian Resources. He loves the smell ofa baseball glove, coffee, and old books. He lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with his wife, 2 teenage boys, and their dog, Freya.