Page 82 - Advanced New Testament Survey Student Textbook

Overview of Ephesians

Philippians: A Call to Stand Firm in Christ

Background

Author: Internal evidence identifies Paul and Timothy as the authors. Paul founded the church in Philippi
(in modern-day northeastern Greece) on his second missionary journey, around AD 49–51 (Acts 16:12).

Provenance and date: The letter to the Ephesians was written from prison (Phil 1:12–14; 4:22).
Suggested locations and dates include: Rome (early 60s AD), Caesarea (around AD 58–60), or Ephesus
(around AD 54–55). However, there is no record of Paul being imprisoned in Ephesus. The suggestion of
Ephesus follows the riot which broke out in Ephesus on Paul’s third missionary journey, which may have
landed Paul in prison, but nothing conclusive can be said about it (Acts 19; compare 2 Cor 11:23).

Recipients: Some scholars have noted that In the letter’s opening, “Paul doesn’t need to declare his
apostleship, as he often does when there is a conflict or doubts about his authority (Phil 1:1; compare 2
Cor 1:1; Gal 1:1; 1 Tim 1:1).” 115 The Philippians had supported Paul financially even when he was not in
Philippi (Phil 4:15–16; compare 2 Cor 8:1–4; 11:9), and it appears that they recently had sent
Epaphroditus to deliver gifts to Paul in prison (Phil 2:25; 4:18). However, Epaphroditus became sick
during the journey (2:30), and Paul writes to tell the Philippians that their friend is recovering. He also
thanks the believers for their ongoing support and gives an update on his situation. 116

115 Barry, J. D., et all
116 Ibid

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