Introduction:
Philippi was a prominent city in the region of Macedonia, notable for its historical and biblical significance. It is best known in the Christian tradition as the site where the Apostle Paul established one of the earliest Christian communities in Europe. The city is mentioned several times in the New Testament, particularly in the Acts of the Apostles and the Epistle to the Philippians.

Historical Background:
Philippi was originally founded by the Thracians and later re-established by Philip II of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great, in 356 BC. The city was strategically located on the Via Egnatia, the major Roman road that connected the eastern provinces to Rome. This made Philippi an important center for trade and military operations.

Biblical Significance:
Philippi holds a special place in Christian history as the first European city where Paul preached the Gospel. According to Acts 16, Paul, along with Silas, Timothy, and Luke, arrived in Philippi during his second missionary journey. The city was a Roman colony, and its citizens enjoyed the privileges of Roman citizenship.

Key Biblical Events:

1. Paul's Vision and Journey to Philippi:
In Acts 16:9-10, Paul receives a vision of a man from Macedonia pleading for help. Interpreting this as a divine call, Paul and his companions set sail for Macedonia, eventually reaching Philippi. "During the night, Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and pleading with him, 'Come over to Macedonia and help us.' As soon as Paul had seen the vision, we got ready to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them."

2. Conversion of Lydia:
One of the first converts in Philippi was Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira. Acts 16:14-15 describes her conversion: "One of those listening was a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. And when she and her household had been baptized, she urged us, 'If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my house.' And she persuaded us."

3. Imprisonment and Release of Paul and Silas:
Paul and Silas were imprisoned in Philippi after casting out a spirit of divination from a slave girl, which angered her owners. Acts 16:25-26 recounts their miraculous release: "About midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly a strong earthquake shook the foundations of the prison. At once all the doors flew open and everyone’s chains came loose."

4. The Philippian Jailer:
Following the earthquake, the jailer, fearing the prisoners had escaped, was about to take his own life. Paul intervened, leading to the jailer's conversion. Acts 16:30-31 records this pivotal moment: "Then he brought them out and asked, 'Sirs, what must I do to be saved?' They replied, 'Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, you and your household.'"

The Epistle to the Philippians:
Paul's letter to the Philippians, written during his imprisonment, is a testament to the deep bond he shared with the believers in Philippi. The epistle is filled with themes of joy, unity, and encouragement. Philippians 1:3-5 reflects Paul's affection: "I thank my God every time I remember you. In every prayer for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now."

Legacy:
The church in Philippi became a model of generosity and faithfulness, often supporting Paul in his missionary endeavors. The city's Christian community continued to thrive, leaving a lasting legacy in the early church. The archaeological remains of Philippi, including the ancient theater and the purported site of Lydia's baptism, continue to attract scholars and pilgrims alike, bearing witness to its rich biblical heritage.

"His Chains Fell Off. " Acts xii. 7
... chains fell off. VERY QUIETLY. Not a single soldier was awakened. God
can speak in loudest tones, as at Phillippi. He can bring ...
//christianbookshelf.org/champness/broken bread/vi his chains fell off.htm

Phillippi (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Phillippi (2 Occurrences). Matthew 16:13 When
Jesus came into the borders of Cesarea Phillippi, he asked ...
/p/phillippi.htm - 7k

Philistine's (4 Occurrences)

/p/philistine's.htm - 7k

Borders (104 Occurrences)
... Matthew 16:13 When Jesus came into the borders of Cesarea Phillippi, he asked his
disciples, saying, Who do men say that I the Son of man am? (WBS). ...
/b/borders.htm - 40k

Cesarea (17 Occurrences)
... Matthew 16:13 When Jesus came into the borders of Cesarea Phillippi, he asked his
disciples, saying, Who do men say that I the Son of man am? (WBS YLT). ...
/c/cesarea.htm - 13k

Philo

/p/philo.htm - 29k

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