A Deeper Look: Studying the Book of Philippians (Part 2 of 4)
This week, we continue our study of Philippians by discussing chapter two. Discover what it means to imitate Christ and be like-minded as Christians.
FAITH
Dani Fielder
5/12/20265 min read
A few weeks back, we started studying Philippians. In the first chapter of Philippians, Paul explains to the people of Philippi that he understands that some people are using his imprisonment as a reason to preach even more boldly out of rivalry. He, however, is glad that the gospel is being preached, regardless of the motive. He later goes on into a popular verse, "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain" (Philippians 1:21, NIV). Paul says this because he realizes that to die and be in Heaven with God is the ultimate gain, but until he dies, he dedicates his life to Christ, living totally surrendered to Him. He ends the chapter by encouraging the people of Philippi to live in a manner that is worthy of the gospel (Philippians 1:27).
In the second chapter of Philippians, we will see Paul's heart for living a life that looks like Christ.
Philippians 2 (with notes)
Imitating Christ’s Humility
1 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
What is your motivation?
Christians can disagree or have differing opinions, but we should be like-minded in our obedience to Christ and service towards others.
What does being like Jesus look like? (Philippians 2:5-8)
5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
6 Who, being in very nature God,
did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
7 rather, he made himself nothing
by taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
by becoming obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
We become like-minded by living a Christ-centered life and by following Jesus's teachings and example. As we follow Christ and learn more about him, it should push us to want to become more like him.
Paul emphasizes Jesus's humility by illustrating how Jesus is equal to God, and yet, came to earth and lowered his status to that of a human, or a servant. Despite having the power of God, he did not utilize this power or flaunt it. He knew his purpose on earth and fulfilled it by being obedient and dying for the sins of all mankind. The point Paul is making is that THIS is the humility we should have and the obedience we should replicate.
Do Everything Without Grumbling
12 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.
This is not to say we must do works to be saved. The "work" of salvation was finished on the cross, but our response to God's grace is to acknowledge His sovereignty and to continue surrendering and obeying him.
14 Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15 so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky 16 as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. 17 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. 18 So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.
Paul encourages the people of Philippi to serve others "without grumbling or arguing." By doing this, you can ultimately be "blameless" or free from guilt, fault, or responsibility for a bad situation. It indicates a state of innocence, suggesting the person has done nothing wrong or does not deserve blame. Paul explains that being blameless will make the Philippians like shining stars in a dark sky. This is the same sentiment of Matthew 5:14-16 where Jesus explains to his followers that they are the light of the world.
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16, NIV).
Timothy and Epaphroditus
19 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. 20 I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. 21 For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. 22 But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. 23 I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. 24 And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon.
25 But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs. 26 For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. 27 Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. 28 Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety. 29 So then, welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor people like him, 30 because he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me.
Paul ends the chapter by explaining to the people of Philippi that he will be sending Epaphroditus, the man the Philippians sent as a messenger with gifts for Paul, back to them. Paul addresses the Philippians' concerns about the health of Epaphroditus, saying that he became so sick that he almost died. He, however, thanks God for allowing Epaphroditus to recover. Paul encourages the people of Philippi to welcome Epaphroditus back eagerly because he risked his life in his pursuit.
Philippians 2: NIV bible: Youversion. YouVersion | The Bible App | Bible.com. (n.d.). https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PHP.1.NIV