apostle’s imprisonment in Rome seem slightly favorable, dating the epistle between AD 60 and 62. Purposes. A careful reading of this epistle can clearly bring forth several reasons why Paul wrote this letter to the saints at Philippi: First, it seems the apostle wanted to update his friends on his current situation (1:12–26; 2:24). The outcome of his impending trial is uncertain (1:18–24), though he hopes to visit them soon (2:23–24). Second, he wrote to warn the Philippians of false teachings (3:2–21;