Paul's letter to the Philippians reveals the unique, close relationship between the apostle and this congregation. While Philippians is Paul's most famous "imprisonment letter," his tone betrays neither frustration not anxiety. Although he cannot personally be with the Philippians, the rapport between these believers and the apostle is so congenial that he speaks to them in supreme confidence that they both will understand his words and act accordingly.

Paul and the Philippians had worked closely together in the past they had suffered together for the common faith and therefore the apostle remains convinced that they will continue to work with him and support him. Paul is so buoyed by this conviction that despite his imprisonment, his absence and his concern over the wrong theology being t…