Some have called the book of Philippians “the epistle of joy.” The reason is because “joy” is one of the main themes of this letter from the Apostle Paul to those in the church of Philippi, the first church Paul founded in Europe. He encourages them to choose joy when facing those things that will steal joy away. In this opening section, Paul expresses his deep thankfulness and affection for them because they were joint-participants with him for the sake of the Gospel, both in advancing the kingdom of God and in coming alongside Paul through their generosity in giving to his needs.