Synopses & Reviews
In this clear, concise exegetical commentary, G. Walter Hansen offers rich exposition of the text of Philippians as well as wisdom and maturity in its application. In so doing he emphasizes partnership the social and corporate dimensions of community in the progress of the gospel. / After a moderately sized bibliography, the introduction takes up the historical setting of the city of Philippi, the nature of the letter, the occasion of the letter, and a preview of two key themes, the gospel of Christ and the community in Christ. The commentary itself considers Philippians in light of these themes, considering the greetings, reports of Gospel ministry, recommendations of two Christ-like servants, and other emphases on the gospel and on partners or servants.
Table of Contents
Editor's preface -- Author's preface -- Introduction -- The historical setting of the church in Philippi -- The nature of the letter -- A letter of friendship -- A deliberative speech -- The integrity of the letter -- The occasion of the letter -- Paul in chains -- The church in trouble -- Disunity -- Suffering -- Opponents -- A preview of two themes -- The Gospel of Christ -- The community in Christ -- Greetings and grace (1:1-2) -- Prayers for partners (1:3-11) -- Reports of gospel ministry (1:12-26) -- The progress of the Gospel (1:12-14) -- Motives for preaching Christ (1:15-18a) -- Courage to honor Christ by life or by death (1:18b-26) -- Imperatives for citizens worthy of the Gospel (1:27-2:18) -- Stand firm together in suffering (1:27-30) -- Think of the interests of others (2:1-4) -- Focus on Christ (2:5-11) -- A community mindful of Christ (2:5) -- The Christ hymn : humility (2:6-8) -- The Christ hymn : exaltation (2:9-11) -- Work out your salvation (2:12-18) -- Recommendations of Christ-like servants (2:19-30) -- Timothy (2:19-24) -- Epaphroditus (2:25-30) -- Disclosures of personal experience (3:1-21) -- Boasting in privileges (3:1-6) -- Losing all to know Christ (3:7-11) -- Pressing on toward the goal (3:12-14) -- Mentoring others (3:15-17) -- Mourning over the enemies of the cross (3:18-19) -- Expecting Christ's ultimate victory (3:20-21) -- Final appeals (4:1-9) -- Be of one mind in the Lord (4:1-3) -- Rejoice in the Lord (4:4-9) -- Thanks for gifts from partners (4:10-20) -- Greetings and grace (4:21-23).