Grace and peace were Paul"s favorite words of blessing in his epistles. He wished that God would bestow these gifts on the Philippians even more than He had. Grace refers to God"s unmerited favor and divine enablement. Peace is the cessation of hostilities and the inner tranquillity that are the result of God"s grace. Charis (grace) is a variation on the word usually used in Greek salutations, namely, chairein meaning "greetings." Shalom (peace) was the traditional Jewish greeting that meant the full measure of divine blessing (cf. Numbers 6:24-26). [source][source][source]
The source of these blessings is God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul believed that Jesus possesses full authority with the Father. [source][source][source]
". . . How is one to begin to attack selfishness and disunity? By subtly showing from the very beginning that in the Church seniority and high calling do not put one Christian leader above another (Paul and Timothy together are one-they are slaves of Christ Jesus) and that "church supervisors" are not above serving, but are by virtue of their office, called to serve (to be diakonoi) ministering to the needs of their fellows." [1][source]
Hawthorne favored the view that the "and" between "bishops" and "deacons" should be interpreted epexegetically as "bishops who are deacons, i.e, servants." He saw only one type of church official in view, namely, bishops. This is a minority opinion. [source][source][source]
Context Summary
Philippians 1:1-11 - Rejoice In Growth And Seek Increase
It is exceedingly difficult to compress this Epistle, which is the tenderest and most personal of them all. Every word merits consideration; every paragraph is full of linked sweetness long drawn out. In the opening verses we are taught that we may further the gospel, not only by direct efforts, but by helping those who, like the Apostle, are devoted to its spread. From the early beginnings of their friendship, this Church had never faltered in its loving gifts, which Paul sought to repay with prayers on their behalf. He regarded them as comrades fighting the same enemy, on the same field, and sharing in the same grace.
The Apostle's confidence that whatever God begins will have its perfect end, Philippians 1:6, is very reassuring. This is what we need, though we must not take it for granted apart from faith and prayer. Each of the Epistles has its "collect," its comprehensive prayer offered in the name of Christ. This one is especially beautiful. Abounding love will lead to increased knowledge; and this to quicker discrimination between things that differ, however similar they may appear; and this, in turn, to freedom from blame and offense. And all will result in the fruit of a holy life, pleasing to Jesus and bringing glory and praise to God. [source]
Chapter Summary: Philippians 1
1Paul testifies his thankfulness to God, and his love toward the Philippians, 9daily praying for their increase in grace; 12he shows what good the faith of Christ had received by his troubles at Rome; 21and how ready he is to glorify Christ either by his life or death; 27exhorting them to unity; 28and to fortitude in persecution
Greek Commentary for Philippians 1:2
Grace - peace [] The combination of the Greek and Oriental salutations spiritualized: grace expressing God's love to man, and peace the condition resulting therefrom. [source]
What do the individual words in Philippians 1:2 mean?
Greek Commentary for Philippians 1:2
The combination of the Greek and Oriental salutations spiritualized: grace expressing God's love to man, and peace the condition resulting therefrom. [source]