1:1 From Paul1 and Timothy, slaves2 of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi,3 with the overseers4 and deacons. 1:2 Grace and peace to you5 from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ!
tnGrk “Paul.” The word “from” is not in the Greek text, but has been supplied to indicate the sender of the letter.
2
tn Traditionally, “servants” or “bondservants.” Though δοῦλος (doulos) is normally translated “servant,” the word does not bear the connotation of a free individual serving another. BDAG notes that “ ‘servant’ for ‘slave’ is largely confined to Biblical transl. and early American times … in normal usage at the present time the two words are carefully distinguished” (BDAG260s.v.). The most accurate translation is “bondservant” (sometimes found in the ASV for δοῦλος), in that it often indicates one who sells himself into slavery to another. But as this is archaic, few today understand its force.
sn Undoubtedly the background for the concept of being the Lord’s slave or servant is to be found in the Old Testament scriptures. For a Jew this concept did not connote drudgery, but honor and privilege. It was used of national Israel at times (Isa 43:10), but was especially associated with famous OT personalities, including such great men as Moses (Josh 14:7), David (Ps 89:3; cf. 2 Sam 7:5, 8) and Elijah (2 Kgs 10:10); all these men were “servants (or slaves) of the Lord.”
snThe overseers (or “church leaders,” L&N 53.71) is another term for the same official position of leadership as the “elder.” This is seen in the interchange of the two terms in Titus 1:6–7 and in Acts 20:17, 28, as well as in the parallels between Titus 1:6–7 and 1 Tim 3:1–7.