What is the main emphasis of the book of Philippians?
The main emphasis of Philippians is that believers can have joy in spite of trials and sufferings. Paul repeats “rejoice in the Lord always” to stress this theme, showing that joy is a fruit of the Spirit and a constant choice amid adversity.
Les explains that the repetition of “rejoice in the Lord always” in Philippians is deliberate—repetition in Scripture signals emphasis. He notes that the whole emphasis throughout the book is that in spite of their trials and sufferings, the Philippian believers could still have joy. Les also points out Paul’s special tenderness toward them because they nurtured him when he was sick and near death. He connects this joy to the fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5, where joy follows love and precedes peace, showing that believers can have joy even in adversity and persecution.
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.