Philippi was named after its founder King Philip II, the father of Alexander the Great. Located in Northern Greece, it became a prosperous Roman colony whose citizens prided themselves in Roman customs. It was prosperous because of its strategic location and the nearby gold mines. It lasted as a city for about 1600 years.
Paul writes to the Philippians during his first imprisonment in Rome. It is 61-62 A.D. and he is under house arrest for two years. During this time, he is living in a rented house where he is allowed to receive visitors and teach the gospel. According to verse 13, he is evidently free to go about and teach in all places including the palace meaning the praetorium. The praetorium was a very large building that was the commander's house. The Philippians are evidently very faithful as this is Paul's most positive and happy epistle.
Paul's sure knowledge of the Savior is indicated when he says that he can't decide between staying in mortality or dying and being able to be with the Savior. He would prefer the latter, but hates not being with the people of the church, especially those like the Philippians.
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