Historical Background
The historical background of Philippians is traditionally gathered from two main primary New Testament sources: (1) informative internal data from the letter itself and (2) related information garnered from the rest of the New Testament Canon. In the latter's case, this would specifically include the Acts of the Apostles, and other related Pauline Epistles.
Other primary information is derived from external historical sources related to the chronological connections between Paul's association with Philippi, its political and economical setting, and its social and religio-philosophical context as well.
According to the document itself, the Philippians had sent Epaphroditus, their envoy ("messenger and minister " Phil. 2.25), with contributions as an expression of their "partnership" and "concern" to meet the needs of Paul (Phil 1:3-5,Phil 2:30, and Phil 4:10-19).
During the execution of his responsibilities of travel to deliver their "gift" (Phil 4:17), Epaphroditus contracted some life-threatening debilitating illness (esthenese, cf. Phil 2:26-27). At some point he recovers. It is at this time, whether premeditated or due to an extended stay with the apostle various internal matters are revealed to Paul on the part of Epaphroditus (Phil 1:27-30,Phil 2:19-24, Phil 3:2-3, Phil 17-20,Phil 4:2-3, and Phil 9).
Upon Epaphroditus' return to health, Paul sends word to the Philippians through Epaphroditus of his upcoming sentence in Rome and of his optimism in the face of death (1.18b-26), along with exhortations to imitate his capacity to rejoice in the Lord despite one's circumstances (2.14-18). Moreover, Paul sends counsel regarding spiritual adversaries among the Philippians (3.1-21), and conflicts within their fellowship (4.2-3). Lastly, he provides receipt of both Epaphroditus' heroism (3.25-30) and the arrival of "the gift" (4.10), along with his promise of a divine accounting (4.17-20).
Within the letter is also found an optimism where Paul's belief of his release is the basis upon which he promises to send Timothy to them for ministry (3.19-23), and an anticipation to also pay them a personal visit (3.24). With this communication Epaphroditus sets out on his homeward journey (3.28-29).
Read more about this topic: Epistle To The Philippians
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“Nature never rhymes her children, nor makes two men alike. When we see a great man, we fancy a resemblance to some historical person, and predict the sequel of his character and fortune, a result which he is sure to disappoint. None will ever solve the problem of his character according to our prejudice, but only in his high unprecedented way.”
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