Philippians was a fairly young church, about ten years of age. When writing this letter, Paul sensed himself at the jaws of death. Therefore, I encourage all of you to read this book as a valediction, like a father's farewell to his ten-year-old son. What message did the father want to convey to his young son when he could foresee how the orphan would soon be facing the same persecution as he did? Having this in mind, please set aside your intellectual mind and submerge yourself deep into Paul's intense struggles. Hear him saying how he was torn within himself. There was so much to tell and teach these young Christians, yet his time was running out, and worst still, his words were confined within a short letter.

Truly, this is also Paul's last words to us. They are words of wisdom that Paul learned through years of his challenging walk of faith. I prayed that you will be blessed as you study this book and gain insight into Paul's joy formula.

(A seven-week Bible study of the book of Philippians with complete commentary)