Paul applauds the example of two workers that are integral to the story of the Philippian church, Timothy and Epaphroditus. We learn about what made these men so special, and are called to honor people in our lives who are similar to them.
Coming off the heals of the Christ Hymn in the previous passage, Paul is exhorting the Philippians to walk in obedience in light of Christ's obedience. What does that look like? It is the grind of everyday life that salvation is 'worked out'… Paul wanted the Philippians to put their salvation into practice for the health of the church.
Paul explains to us the "mind of Christ" and how this affected every action Jesus took. And even more stunning, he contends that this mind is now given to us to completely reorient the way that we lead life.
In this opening section of the letter, Paul focuses on the people he know and loves in Philippi. He he teaches all of us how to actively develop and grow those around us.