Paul"s imprisonment limited his ministry to the Philippian church, but he still prayed for his brethren in Philippi. His prayers were full of joy as he petitioned God for the saints there. Joy is a recurring motif in Philippians where the joy word group appears16 times. The Greek word translated "prayer" (deesis) refers to requests. Several years of absence from these Christians had not led Paul to drop them from his prayer list. Every time Paul prayed for them, he did so with thanksgiving. [source][source][source]
Context Summary
Philippians 1:1-11 - Rejoice In Growth And Seek Increase
It is exceedingly difficult to compress this Epistle, which is the tenderest and most personal of them all. Every word merits consideration; every paragraph is full of linked sweetness long drawn out. In the opening verses we are taught that we may further the gospel, not only by direct efforts, but by helping those who, like the Apostle, are devoted to its spread. From the early beginnings of their friendship, this Church had never faltered in its loving gifts, which Paul sought to repay with prayers on their behalf. He regarded them as comrades fighting the same enemy, on the same field, and sharing in the same grace.
The Apostle's confidence that whatever God begins will have its perfect end, Philippians 1:6, is very reassuring. This is what we need, though we must not take it for granted apart from faith and prayer. Each of the Epistles has its "collect," its comprehensive prayer offered in the name of Christ. This one is especially beautiful. Abounding love will lead to increased knowledge; and this to quicker discrimination between things that differ, however similar they may appear; and this, in turn, to freedom from blame and offense. And all will result in the fruit of a holy life, pleasing to Jesus and bringing glory and praise to God. [source]
Chapter Summary: Philippians 1
1Paul testifies his thankfulness to God, and his love toward the Philippians, 9daily praying for their increase in grace; 12he shows what good the faith of Christ had received by his troubles at Rome; 21and how ready he is to glorify Christ either by his life or death; 27exhorting them to unity; 28and to fortitude in persecution
Greek Commentary for Philippians 1:4
With joy [μετα χαρας] Keynote of the Epistle. Paul is a happy prisoner as in Philippi when he and Silas sang praises at midnight though in prison (Acts 16:25). [source]
Prayer [δεήσει] Rev., better, supplication. See on Luke 5:33. [source]
For you all [] Connect with every prayer of mine. [source]
Request [τὴν δέησιν] Rev., better, my supplication. The article refers to every supplication. [source]
Greek Commentary for Philippians 1:4
Keynote of the Epistle. Paul is a happy prisoner as in Philippi when he and Silas sang praises at midnight though in prison (Acts 16:25). [source]
Rev., better, supplication. See on Luke 5:33. [source]
Connect with every prayer of mine. [source]
Rev., better, my supplication. The article refers to every supplication. [source]
Joy is the keynote of this epistle. Bengel says: “The sum of the epistle is, 'I rejoice, rejoice ye.”' See Phlippians 1:18, Phlippians 1:25; Phlippians 2:2, Phlippians 2:17, Phlippians 2:18, Phlippians 2:28, Phlippians 2:29; Phlippians 3:1; Phlippians 4:1, Phlippians 4:4, Phlippians 4:10. [source]