1. GREETINGS (PHIL 1: 1, 2)

1.      GREETINGS (PHIL 1: 1, 2):

Paul acknowledges that he is writing the letter along with Timothy, and mentions themselves as servants of Christ Jesus, and he writes the letter to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons. Paul is closely knit with Timothy as a mentor, and there is a possibility that Timothy is well-known among the Philippians, as he and Paul were ministering together there. Also, there is a prediction that Paul might have dictated the instructions and messages, and Timothy would have written them as a scribe. Paul clearly mentions to whom the letter is being written, and he writes that it is for all the people who are set apart from their sins and have started to kill their selfishness and live for God and the people around them. It is not just for the believers, but also for the leaders of the church, who are primarily called to be overseers and deacons during that time.

Paul greets the Philippians in the grace given to them and peace from God from the Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. The greeting is a more usual one of Paul, who writes that grace to them and peace from God their Father. Grace is undeniably an essential factor for the person to know and enjoy the inheritance as well as privileges of God the Father through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ on the cross, which alone could furnish real peace in our heart and mind.

Stimulations for Self-Reflection:

1.      Who is (are) the author (s) of Philippians?

2.      How does Paul introduce himself and Timothy? Why?

3.      To whom has the letter been written?

4.      Why are the Philippians mentioned as saints?

5.      Who are overseers and deacons?

6.      How did Paul greet Philippians?

7.      How can we really give a hearty and good greeting to our fellow brothers? 

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