Philippians 2:17-18

But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.

(v17-18, NIV)

Paul is speaking with reference to the faith and obedience of the saints at the church in Philippi. Paul was graciously given the opportunity by God to take part in their knowing and following Jesus. Knowing that they are continuing in the faith brings Paul joy and he is proud that his efforts were not in vain. Furthermore, he expresses his joy regardless of what is demanded and required of him in his part of God's good work in them. He uses the example of a drink offering in which he explains himself as being poured out.

In Leviticus 1-7, there are a number of different offerings explained. However, the drink offering is left out of this list. The burnt offering represents Christ's death accomplishing the will of God for the pleasure of God. The meal offering represents Christ's perfection in his obedience and manhood. The peace offering represents Christ's death as reconciliation between God and man. The sin offering represent's Christ as the one who bears sin. The trespass offering represents Christ's death with regards to the sins we commit as believers. The animal sacrifices and meal offerings were to be without blemish and perfect in all respects. Similarly, the drink offering was to be composed of "strong wine". This is to show perfection because God demands the best, not second best or leftovers. Wine symbolized joy and is meant for joyous occasions. So, the drink offering was an offering of joy.

Since the drink offering was an offering of joy, this explains why Paul uses it in his illustration. Paul is joyful in his being "poured out" for the saints at the church in Philippi. He is glad and calls them to rejoice with him. This letter he writes is definitely filled with joy and we see it once again here.