Evaluation
Overall Score: 8.0/10
A steady, well-crafted walk through Philippians that serves teachers who want dependable structure and thoughtful pastoral application.
Summary
At a Glance
- Length
- 304 pages
- Type
- Expositional, Expository (Mid-Level)
- Theo. Perspective
- Baptist, Broadly Evangelical, Reformed
- Overall score
- 8 / 10
- Strength
- A stable, well-crafted exposition that serves preachers with dependable structure and pastoral clarity.
- Limitation
- Does not significantly develop wider scholarly issues or interpretive debates in Philippians.
John MacArthur’s Philippians provides a warm and clear exposition of Paul’s joyful letter from prison. We are led through Paul’s expressions of gratitude, his exhortations to unity, his Christ-centred vision of life and ministry, and his call to steadfast perseverance. As with the rest of the series, MacArthur offers verse-by-verse commentary aimed at teachers and pastors, grounding every section in a straightforward reading of the text and the overarching themes of humility, joy, and partnership in the gospel.
The commentary is written for those who want clarity without excessive technical detail. MacArthur keeps the focus on the pastoral heart of Philippians—Christ as the believer’s life, strength, and joy—and provides brief but useful notes on Greek terms, historical background, and theological significance. The result is a dependable, accessible resource for ministry preparation.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
This volume excels in its treatment of the Christ hymn in Philippians 2. MacArthur handles the passage with reverence and care, drawing out its doctrinal richness while helping readers see its ethical implications for Christian humility and unity. His exposition will be particularly helpful to pastors preaching on the incarnation, the obedience of Christ, and His exaltation.
We also value MacArthur’s pastoral sensitivity in sections dealing with suffering, partnership in the gospel, and the believer’s mindset. His reflections on joy in Christ—grounded not in circumstances but in the believer’s identity and hope—are practical and encouraging. These strengths make the commentary especially helpful for preaching series, small groups, and pastoral counselling contexts.
The commentary offers steady support in passages such as Paul’s call to “work out your salvation,” his warnings against false teachers, and his exhortation to contentment. MacArthur’s consistency in explaining the flow of Paul’s thought provides teachers with a clear framework for carrying these applications into congregational life.
While the work does not address academic debates in detail or engage deeply with alternative interpretive approaches, it accomplishes its purpose well: to offer faithful, accessible exposition rooted in a high view of Scripture.
Closing Recommendation
We recommend MacArthur’s Philippians as a reliable and pastorally rich exposition, particularly useful for those preaching or teaching through the letter. Its emphasis on Christ, joy, humility, and perseverance aligns well with the heart of Paul’s message and provides steady encouragement for ministry.
For anyone building a preaching-focused library, this commentary will serve as a trustworthy and edifying companion alongside more technical works.
Classification
- Level: Mid-level
- Best For: Busy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-training
- Priority: Useful supplement