Nothing hinders a church’s witness—and its day-to-day existence—like conflict from within. Paul, in his letter to the church in Philippi, responded to a church body whose personal battles were worsened by outside hostility and adversity.

Paul thus chose to reinforce friendship and morality in his letter, along with their “partnership in the gospel,” their shared suffering for Jesus, and their essential duty to “stand firm in one spirit.” Paul’s advice is still strikingly relevant today.

Gordon Fee’s commentary describes this letter’s meaning for ancient readers, and how modern readers can apply it to their own lives.