This lecture begins our exploration of the text of Philippians in order to discover the contribution of this letter to the overall message of the Bible. We will learn that the first passage of Scripture in Philippians is an introduction to the letter. Paul's opening words present the expected identification of author, recipients, and a greeting (1:1-2). Paul then includes an expression of thanksgiving, and gives the reasons for his gratitude to God for the Philippian believers (1:3-8). This leads finally to the content of the prayers Paul raises before God on behalf of these Christians (1:9-11).