Phil. 1:18-30 He knows that the outcome of his trial is uncertain and he could be condemned to death. But, for Paul, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. He is pulled in two directions: On the one hand, he wants to leave this life and be with Christ; on the other, he wants to see the Philippians again so he can encourage them in their faith.
Phil. 2:1-8 Paul urges the believers to be kind and compassionate, and to give up selfish desires. They should seek the attitude of Jesus Christ who “was like God in everything” (Philippians 2:6), but “gave up his place with God, and made himself nothing” (Philippians 2:7).
Jesus was born as a human-being “And when he was living as a man, he humbled himself and was fully obedient to God, even when that caused his death – death on a cross” (Philippians 2:7-8).
Phil. 2:9-11 Paul looks forward to the time when “every knee will bow to the name of Jesus – everyone in heaven, on earth, and under the earth. And everyone will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord and bring glory to God the Father” (Philippians 2:10-11).
"Every knee will bow... and everyone will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord" (Philippians 2:10-11)
Phil. 2:12-18 In the meantime, the believers should stand apart from corrupt and sinful people. They should “shine like stars in the dark world” and “offer the teaching that gives life” (Philippians 2:15-16).
Paul commends his fellow-workers
Phil. 2:19-24 Paul commends Timothy to the believers and says he hopes to send him to them soon. They will remember that Timothy was with Paul and Silas when Paul first established the church in Philippi some ten years earlier (see Acts 16:1-3 & 12-40).
Phil. 2:25-30 Paul also commends Epaphroditus who has recently come from Philippi to Rome and is taking this letter back to the believers in Philippi (see Philippians 4:18). Epaphroditus has been ill and nearly died, but he is now restored to full health.