PURPOSE OF PHILIPPIANS

The letter being a unit does not mean that Paul only had one purpose in writing the epistle. There were a number of purposes:

1. To communicate his present situation of rejoicing in spite of suffering (1:12-26). To keep them up to date and relieve their anxiety concerning him.
2. To inform them of the visit of Timothy (2:18-24).
3. To communicate to them about Epaphraditus, their representative, ministered to him but had become ill, was recovering, and was a worthy servant (2:25-30). Robertson says this was the immediate purpose.[1]
4. To inform them of the danger of seductive tactics and doctrines of the Judaizers (3:1-4:1)
5. To communicate his affection for the Philippians (cf. 4:1). This is one of the most personal of the epistles of Paul. There is no question but that there was an intimate relationship between them and the Apostle
6. To admonished the spiritual immaturity of Euodias and Syntyche, and to hold to the unity of the faith (4:2-3). To correct division in their ranks.
7. To communicate his thanksgiving for their gift (4:10-20).
8. To send his greetings to all (4:21-23).

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[1]  A.T. Robertson, PAUL’S JOY IN CHRIST, Broadman Press, Nashville, 19.