OCCASION
OCCASION
We can discern a number of factors that may have called forth this letter. First, there is the matter of Epaphroditus. This man had been sent to Paul by the Philippian church "to take care of [Paul’s] needs” (Phil. 2:25). He apparently had discharged his task but had fallen ill, so ill indeed that he nearly died. The Philippians had heard of the illness, and Epaphroditus was upset about this (2:26-27). Paul repeats his reference to the serious nature of the illness (2:30). The Philippians perhaps had not realized just how serious Epaphroditus’s illness had been, or perhaps some were critical of the time he had stayed with Paul. So Paul tells them to honor people like this man (2:29). It is also possible that there had been some criticism of Paul for keeping Epaphroditus with him instead of sending him back earlier. Whatever the exact circumstances, Paul writes to make clear to the Philippians that their messenger had done his task well and that he had undergone great danger in discharging it. Paul is sending him back with a warm commendation.
Then there is the fact that the Philippian church had sent a gift to Paul (Phil. 4:14-18; cf. 2:25). Since he leaves mention of this until quite late in the letter, it is probable that this is not the first time Paul has expressed his thanks. But it is plain that he greatly appreciated the help that this church had given him; he writes warmly about their generosity. A genuine appreciation of all that the Philippians had done for him is certainly part of the reason this letter.
Third, Paul gives the Philippians news about his own circumstances (Phil. 1:12ff.).
The Philippians had been praying for him (1:19), and Paul recognizes them as partners with him in the gospel (1:5). Accordingly, he acquaints them with enough of his circumstances for them to see the way the gospel had been advanced by what was happening to him.
Fourth, although the Philippian church was in general a thriving Christian community, there were some problems. Paul recognizes their need for unity and specifically pleads with two women to be at peace with each other (Phil. 4:2). His exhortation to wholehearted service (1:27-2:18) may be connected with a recognition that all is not well. Paul offers warnings against false teachers (3:2-4), people who are "enemies of the cross of Christ” (3:18).
A further reason for writing may have been to commend Timothy to them and possibly to prepare the way for a visit he himself would pay (Phil. 2:19-24). His commendation of Timothy suggests that the Philippians did not know him well. Paul wants to ensure that his young colleague will receive a warm welcome when he comes to Philippi.