Philippians 2:1-11

¹ “Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, ² make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. ³ Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility consider one another as more important than yourselves; ⁴ do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. ⁵ Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, ⁶ who, as He already existed in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, ⁷ but emptied Himself by taking the form of a bond-servant and being born in the likeness of men. ⁸ And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death: death on a cross.⁹ For this reason also God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, ¹⁰ so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, ¹¹ and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

Verse 1: Paul begins by reminding the believers in Philippi of the encouragement, comfort, and unity they have in Christ. He highlights the shared experience of the Holy Spirit and the tenderness and compassion that comes from being in relationship with him.

Verse 2: Paul urges the believers to bring him joy by being like-minded and united in their love for one another. He emphasizes the importance of unity and oneness of mind, which is a natural outflow of their shared identity in Christ.

Verse 3: Paul encourages the believers to reject selfish ambition and pride, which are contrary to the nature of Christ. Instead, he calls them to embrace humility and to value others above themselves. This selfless attitude reflects the heart of Christ as well as their own new hearts, and fosters unity within the body of believers.

Verse 4: Paul emphasizes the importance of considering the interests of others rather than solely focusing on one’s own needs and desires. This selflessness and concern for others aligns with the example set by Christ and promotes unity and harmony within the community of believers. Paul is not saying that we must ignore our desires but simply to make sure we are loving and serving one another.

Verse 5: Paul instructs the believers to adopt the mindset of Christ in their relationships with one another. This mindset is characterized by humility, selflessness, and a willingness to serve others. By following Christ’s example, they can cultivate unity and love within the body of believers.

Verse 6-8: Paul highlights the incredible humility and self-sacrifice of Christ. Despite being God himself, Jesus did not cling to His divine privileges but willingly took on the form of a servant and humbled himself by becoming fully human. He obediently submitted to death, even the humiliating death on a cross, for the sake of humanity’s redemption.

Verse 9-11: As a result of Christ’s obedience and humility, God exalted him to the highest place of honor and authority. Every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, bringing glory to God the Father. This exaltation of Christ demonstrates His supreme authority and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.