Interpretation of the Epistle to the Philippians by St. Paul the Apostle

Blessed Theophylact of Bulgaria gained experience in explaining the Holy Scriptures when, as a rhetorician of the Great Church, he instructed the people. Most of his written interpretations arose at the request of the Greek Empress Maria, whom he calls his pious patron. These works became an outstanding synthesis and transposition of the established patristic traditions, primarily the heritage of the Antiochian theological school and St. John Chrysostom. As a rule, the author presents abbreviated versions of extensive interpretations of the ancient Church Fathers, borrowing only what is necessary for understanding the text. The commentary also includes his own explanations, which often concern disputes with heretics, especially later ones, and issues of dialogue with the Latins. Thanks to his clear, concise presentation and clear semantic emphasis, his commentaries were accessible to a wide range of readers, became widespread and had a significant influence on both Byzantine and Western European theology. In “Interpretation of the Epistle to the Philippians of the Holy Apostle Paul” (4 chapters) the circumstances and nature of this epistle are revealed. Blessed Theophylact notes that the residents of the Macedonian city of Philippi enjoyed special love and respect for the Apostle Paul, who wrote his epistle while in prison in Rome. The main topics raised in the interpretation: a call for unity and humility of spirit, denunciation of the Jews who, under the guise of Christianity, harmed the true teaching, help and goodwill towards those in need. Philippians are residents of the city of Philip, located in Macedonia and named after its founder Philip; at that time they were dependent on the Metropolitanate of Thessaloniki. Paul says a lot of good things about them. He wrote this epistle while he was in bonds, since after the first defense at the trial, which he mentions in the Epistle to Timothy, he was again taken into bonds. The Philippians, having sent him everything he needed through Epaphroditus, at the same time wanted to know about him. Being sure that the Philippians were worried when they heard that their teacher was imprisoned, he writes to them this letter, teaching them that his bonds should not produce anxiety in them, but joy, since they are for Christ's sake. Advises them to be unanimous and humble in spirit. He also denounces those Jews who, under the guise of Christianity, harm the teaching, and calls them dogs and evildoers. Tells them a lot about their lifestyle. He wisely mentions the gifts they sent him; obviously treats them with respect because they have shown great virtue and readiness for faith. There was a woman here who sold scarlet; the leader of the synagogue believed here; here Paul, after being beaten, was imprisoned with Silas; here the prison guard, struck by one sign, believed in Christ with his whole household; here the military leaders, fearing Paul, asked him to leave. In general, Paul's preaching had a brilliant beginning, as we know from the Acts. And here Paul testifies not only to the right faith of the Philippians and to the dangers to which they were exposed because of their faith, but to their good disposition towards those in need. For all this, he shows how much he loves and respects them. You might be interested in: