In Philippians 2, Paul challenges the church to embody humility and unity, showcasing the ultimate example of selflessness in Christ. It's an invitation to rethink our roles in community and relationships.
The Reading: Philippians 2
World English Bible1 If therefore there is any exhortation in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any tender mercies and compassion,
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2 make my joy full, by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind;
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3 doing nothing through rivalry or through conceit, but in humility, each counting others better than himself;
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4 each of you not just looking to his own things, but each of you also to the things of others.
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5 Have this in your mind, which was also in Christ Jesus,
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6 who, existing in the form of God, didn’t consider equality with God a thing to be grasped,
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7 but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men.
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8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, yes, the death of the cross.
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9 Therefore God also highly exalted him, and gave to him the name which is above every name;
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10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, those on earth, and those under the earth,
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11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
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12 So then, my beloved, even as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
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13 For it is God who works in you both to will and to work, for his good pleasure.
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14 Do all things without murmurings and disputes,
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15 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without defect in the middle of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you are seen as lights in the world,
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16 holding up the word of life; that I may have something to boast in the day of Christ, that I didn’t run in vain nor labor in vain.
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17 Yes, and if I am poured out on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice, and rejoice with you all.
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18 In the same way, you also rejoice, and rejoice with me.
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19 But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered up when I know how you are doing.
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20 For I have no one else like-minded, who will truly care about you.
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21 For they all seek their own, not the things of Jesus Christ.
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22 But you know the proof of him, that, as a child serves a father, so he served with me in furtherance of the Good News.
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23 Therefore I hope to send him at once, as soon as I see how it will go with me.
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24 But I trust in the Lord that I myself also will come shortly.
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25 But I counted it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, fellow soldier, and your apostle and servant of my need;
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26 since he longed for you all, and was very troubled, because you had heard that he was sick.
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27 For indeed he was sick, nearly to death, but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, that I might not have sorrow on sorrow.
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28 I have sent him therefore the more diligently, that, when you see him again, you may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful.
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29 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all joy, and hold such in honor,
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30 because for the work of Christ he came near to death, risking his life to supply that which was lacking in your service toward me.
What This Chapter Is Really Saying
Call for Unity and Humility
Paul starts by urging the Philippians to come together in a spirit of love and unity. He encourages them to be like-minded and to prioritize the needs of others over their own. This isn't just about avoiding conflict; it's about building each other up in a community grounded in humility.
The Example of Christ
Paul then paints a beautiful picture of Jesus. Though he was divine, Jesus didn't cling to his status but chose to become a servant. He humbled himself to the point of death on a cross, a radical act of love. Because of this, God exalted him, giving him a name above all names - one that every knee will bow to.
Working Out Salvation
Paul encourages the Philippians to actively pursue their own spiritual growth, working out their salvation with seriousness. He reassures them that it's God who empowers their efforts, reminding them that they shine as lights in a dark world when they live out their faith without complaining or arguing.
Sending Helpers
Towards the end of the chapter, Paul shares his plans to send Timothy and Epaphroditus to the Philippians. Timothy is a kindred spirit, and Paul values his caring nature. Epaphroditus nearly died for his commitment to serving Paul and the church, and Paul urges the community to honor him upon his return.
Why It Matters
Embrace Humility
Philippians 2 teaches us that true greatness is found in humility. In a world that often celebrates self-promotion, we're reminded to consider the needs of others and serve them with genuine love.
Community Matters
This chapter highlights the importance of unity within the church. When we come together, putting aside rivalries and pride, we reflect Christ's love and light in our communities. It's powerful to see how collective faith can uplift everyone.
Action is Key
Paul emphasizes that faith is not passive. We're called to actively participate in our spiritual journeys and to support one another in doing so. Whether through serving, encouraging, or simply being present, our actions matter.
As you explore these themes, consider how you can be a part of a community that lives out these values. To find a church near you, check out find a church near you for ways to connect and grow together.
Coming Up Next: Philippians 3
In the next part of our journey through Philippians 3, we'll delve into the importance of knowing Christ deeply and understanding what truly counts in our faith. You won't want to miss it!