Philippians: A Theological, Pastoral, and Missional Commentary

Philippians is one of the most beloved Pauline letters. Favorite passages have been memorized by generations of Christians. But what if this letter is far more than a collection of uplifting verses? What if it holds a unified, challenging, and transformative vision for Christian life?

In this rich commentary, renowned Pauline scholar Michael J. Gorman brings a lifetime of expertise to bear on one of the New Testament's most intriguing texts. Gorman offers a bold thesis: that the entire letter is an extended interpretation of the Christ-poem in Philippians 2:6–11, and that Paul wants his readers to embody that remarkable poem in their community life and their engagement with the world.

Through verse-by-verse exposition, Gorman illuminates the letter's theological depth, spiritual richness, and missional urgency. Each unit of text is accompanied by theological reflections, questions for contemplation, and suggestions for further reading. An original translation runs parallel to the NRSVue, and the commentary engages non-Western interpreters for perspectives that expand and challenge familiar readings.

Written for both the pastor preparing a sermon series and the student or layperson exploring Philippians in depth, as well as for biblical scholars and theologians, this commentary invites readers to engage with the letter as a beautifully unified whole—and to discover its message anew, including contributions to scholarship on the letter. Readers who appreciate Gorman's commentaries on Romans and 1 Corinthians will welcome this new addition to his body of work.