sixteen times in the letter. [A Joyful Epistle] Beyond sheer statistics, the overall tenor of the letter is that of joy.15 Although physically in chains, Paul was not in spiritual shackles. Rather, he rejoices in the progress of the gospel in the midst of his confinement (1:18–19) and enjoins the Philippians to join him in rejoicing (2:17–18; 3:1; 4:4). For Paul, joy is a spiritual fruit (Gal 5:22; cf. Rom 14:17). It is confidence in the Lord that transcends circumstances and provides the necessary