The Book of Philippians From Prison in Rome Paul writes in 64 A.D. to the saints in Philippi to encourage and instruct them in the Christian life. After being falsely accused, beaten, and put in prison without opportunity to defend himself against the false charges, the magistrates of the city become away that he is a Roman citizen and what they just did will cost them their lives if Paul wishes to press charges. However, Paul opts to use this to the advantage of the assembly in Philippi, which gives them relief from persecution for a time.