Philippians 3:1 1Finally, my brothers [and sisters], rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me but as a safeguard for you.
Paul makes a major shift in the letter at this point. It almost appears as if he is now ready to close the letter. This has raised questions for some interpreters, that perhaps someone has added two letters or fragments together at this point. Although this is certainly possible, there are other explanations as well, such as a shift in thinking or additional thoughts that came to Paul as he wrote. He has dealt with several major topics thus far: his own suffering and imprisonment, the suffering of the Philippians and their need to be unified in service and humility, and the ministries of Timothy and Epaphroditus. The first verse of chapter 3 is a transition to another topic of concern that will be addressed beginning in verse 2.
The key response Paul hoped for in the letter is repeated again in verse one: rejoice in the Lord. The Philippians needed to be optimistic that God was at work in their midst through the grace found in Christ Jesus. It can be difficult to be joyful when there is trouble, persecution, division, selfishness, and false teaching. These obstacles to the ministry and mission of the church can be overcome through humility and dependence upon Christ. Paul will take up this topic also in this coming chapter. Paul was taking some risk in writing a letter like this. There are some strong words of confrontation. He was careful in his rhetoric lest he alienate the church and cause more problems. The answer to all church problems is found in Jesus and what Jesus has done for us on the cross. Cross-style living is the door to resurrection possibilities.
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