Phili 1:1 | MHM | STEP | Apostolic Benediction. This opening section introduces the letter writers, the recipients, and Paul’s greeting. Paul is joined by Timothy, showing humility and respect for his younger companion. He addresses all believers in Philippi, including their leaders, and then gives his usual blessing of grace and peace. These verses highlight the unity of the church and the importance of God’s grace. v. 1 : Paul and Timothy write this letter together. Paul includes Timothy’s name to show his humility and to honor Timothy, even though Paul is the main apostle and writer. Both of them call themselves “the servants of Jesus Christ,” showing that their highest honor is to serve Christ, not to rule the church. The letter is addressed to “all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi,” meaning all Christians in that city. Paul mentions the church before the leaders to remind everyone that church leaders are there to help and serve the people, not to rule over them (2 Corinthians 1:24; 2 Corinthians 4:5 ). Every believer, no matter how rich or poor, is called a saint because they belong to Jesus Christ. Paul also includes the “bishops and deacons,” the two official roles in the early church: elders who guide and teach, and deacons who care for practical needs. In the New Testament, “bishops” and “presbyters” are often the same office, not different ranks.

‏ Philippians 1:1

Apostolic Benediction.

This opening section introduces the letter writers, the recipients, and Paul’s greeting. Paul is joined by Timothy, showing humility and respect for his younger companion. He addresses all believers in Philippi, including their leaders, and then gives his usual blessing of grace and peace. These verses highlight the unity of the church and the importance of God’s grace.

v. 1: Paul and Timothy write this letter together. Paul includes Timothy’s name to show his humility and to honor Timothy, even though Paul is the main apostle and writer. Both of them call themselves “the servants of Jesus Christ,” showing that their highest honor is to serve Christ, not to rule the church. The letter is addressed to “all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi,” meaning all Christians in that city. Paul mentions the church before the leaders to remind everyone that church leaders are there to help and serve the people, not to rule over them (2 Corinthians 1:24; 2 Corinthians 4:5 ^a). Every believer, no matter how rich or poor, is called a saint because they belong to Jesus Christ. Paul also includes the “bishops and deacons,” the two official roles in the early church: elders who guide and teach, and deacons who care for practical needs. In the New Testament, “bishops” and “presbyters” are often the same office, not different ranks.