Analysis of Philippians Chapter 2
In this analysis of Philippians Chapter 2, we will delve into the profound theological and practical themes presented by the Apostle Paul. This chapter is rich with admonitions for unity, humility, and Christ-like behavior among believers, and it conveys deep theological truths about the nature and work of Christ. By examining the verses closely, we can uncover the timeless principles that are still relevant to believers today.
Unity and Humility (Verses 1-4)
The chapter begins with a call for unity and humility among the believers in Philippi:
“Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:1-4)
Paul begins with several rhetorical statements that establish the common experiences shared by believers—consolation in Christ, comfort of love, fellowship of the Spirit, affection, and mercy. These shared experiences form the foundation for unity. Paul emphasizes that such unity is not just desirable but essential for the joy and effectiveness of the Christian community.
In verse 2, Paul urges believers to be “like-minded,” emphasizing the importance of unity in thought and purpose. This unity is anchored in love, as he calls for the believers to have “the same love” and to be “of one accord, of one mind.” This doesn’t mean uniformity, where everyone thinks exactly the same, but rather a harmonious and concerted effort towards common goals and purposes in Christ.
Verses 3 and 4 are a call to humility. Paul instructs believers to abandon selfish ambition and conceit, urging them instead to approach each other with “lowliness of mind.” By esteeming others better than oneself, believers reflect the humility of Christ. This selflessness also extends to practical matters, as Paul encourages them to be mindful of the interests of others, not just their own. This teaching stands in contrast to the competitive and self-centered attitudes often seen in society and has profound implications for Christian community life.
The Example of Christ (Verses 5-11)
Paul then provides the ultimate example of humility and service—Jesus Christ:
“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:5-11)
This passage is often referred to as the “Christ Hymn” due to its poetic nature and profound theological depth. Paul begins by exhorting the Philippians to adopt the same mindset that was in Christ Jesus. The subsequent verses describe the humility and exaltation of Christ, serving as both a model and a motivation for believers.
The Humility of Christ
Verses 6-8 highlight the voluntary self-limitation and humility of Christ. Despite being in the form of God and possessing equality with God, Jesus did not cling to His divine privileges. Instead, He “made Himself of no reputation,” or as some translations render it, “emptied Himself.” This “kenosis” or self-emptying involves Christ taking the form of a bondservant and becoming human.
The depth of Christ’s humility is further emphasized by His obedience unto death, even the death of the cross. Crucifixion was a brutal and shameful form of execution reserved for the worst criminals. Christ’s willingness to endure such suffering and humiliation underscores the extent of His humility and obedience to the Father’s will.
The Exaltation of Christ
Verses 9-11 focus on the exaltation of Christ. Due to His obedience and sacrifice, God has highly exalted Him and given Him the name above every name. This exaltation signifies Christ’s victory and authority. The name of Jesus carries ultimate power and authority, and Paul envisions a time when every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. This universal acknowledgment of Christ’s lordship serves to glorify God the Father.
This profound passage encapsulates the essence of Christ’s ministry—His incarnation, humility, obedience, sacrificial death, and subsequent exaltation. It serves as a compelling example for believers to imitate His humility and obedience in their own lives.
Living Out the Christian Life (Verses 12-18)
Paul continues with practical exhortations for the believers:
“Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.” (Philippians 2:12-16)
Paul begins this section by urging the believers to “work out” their salvation. This does not mean that salvation is achieved by works; rather, it involves actively living out the implications of their salvation in their daily lives. The phrase “with fear and trembling” emphasizes the seriousness and reverence with which they should approach their Christian walk.
Importantly, Paul reminds them that it is God who works in them to will and to act according to His good pleasure. This verse highlights the cooperation between divine sovereignty and human responsibility in the process of sanctification.
In verses 14-16, Paul provides specific instructions for Christian behavior: doing all things without complaining and disputing. This injunction is crucial for maintaining unity and a positive witness in the world. By living blameless and pure lives, believers can contrast sharply with the “crooked and perverse generation” around them. Paul describes believers as lights in the world, illuminating their surroundings with the truth and the life of the gospel. Holding fast to the word of life is essential for maintaining their witness and ensuring that Paul’s labor among them has not been in vain.
Paul’s Example and the Example of Timothy and Epaphroditus (Verses 17-30)
Paul concludes the chapter by highlighting his own sacrificial service as well as the commendable examples of Timothy and Epaphroditus:
“Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. For the same reason you also be glad and rejoice with me. But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, that I also may be encouraged when I know your state. For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus. But you know his proven character, that as a son with his father he served with me in the gospel. Therefore I hope to send him at once, as soon as I see how it goes with me. But I trust in the Lord that I myself shall also come shortly.” (Philippians 2:17-24)
Paul uses the metaphor of a drink offering to describe his potential martyrdom, viewing it not as a cause for sorrow, but for joy and mutual rejoicing. This perspective on suffering and sacrifice is deeply rooted in Paul’s understanding of the Christian life as a participation in the sufferings of Christ.
Next, Paul commends Timothy to the Philippians, highlighting his sincere concern for their welfare and his proven character. Timothy’s selflessness and devotion to Christ’s interests make him an exemplary leader and a worthy emissary. Paul expresses his hope to send Timothy soon and to visit the Philippians himself if possible, demonstrating his deep pastoral concern.
“Yet I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to my need; since he was longing for you all, and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick. For indeed he was sick almost unto death; but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. Therefore I sent him the more eagerly, that when you see him again you may rejoice, and I may be less sorrowful. Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem; because for the work of Christ he came close to death, not regarding his life, to supply what was lacking in your service toward me.” (Philippians 2:25-30)
Paul also commends Epaphroditus, whom he describes with affectionate terms such as “brother,” “fellow worker,” and “fellow soldier.” Epaphroditus had been sent by the Philippians to assist Paul and had fallen gravely ill in the process. His recovery is attributed to God’s mercy. Paul’s sending of Epaphroditus back to Philippi is intended to alleviate their concerns and bring mutual joy. Paul urges the Philippians to honor him for his sacrificial service and near-death experience, highlighting the value of selfless dedication in the work of Christ.
Conclusion
Philippians Chapter 2 is a rich and multifaceted passage that calls believers to unity, humility, and Christ-like behavior. Paul’s exhortations are grounded in the example of Christ, whose incarnation, humility, and exaltation serve as the ultimate model for Christian living. The practical instructions for living out the Christian life and the commendation of exemplary individuals like Timothy and Epaphroditus provide concrete illustrations of these principles in action. This chapter remains a powerful and relevant guide for believers seeking to cultivate a Christ-centered, selfless, and united community.