Philippians 2:5-11 supports the Bible’s Gospel message. God came to earth as a human to accomplish what we could not do for ourselves. This passage discusses the deity of Jesus Christ, his humanity, and his final exaltation.
Philippians 2:5-11 presents the deity of Jesus Christ
REFLECT AND RECORD
In what ways does power and privilege affect a person’s attitude? Why do you think it is corrupting? What is the anti-dote?
2:6 though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped
The Greek word for form used in V.6 is Morphe. It means outward manifestation and relates to the essence that doesn’t change. In other words, as a human, Jesus was the same in essence as God the father.
But Jesus didn’t let his divinity corrupt his attitude or use it to further himself.
The Greek word for grasped is harpagmos, which means to seize, snatch violently and hold fast. It presents the idea of holding a privilege that you take advantage of in the future.
Paul’s exact meaning is unclear. Is he saying that Jesus Christ surrendered his equality with God by becoming a man or that he could have asserted his divine essence as a man, but chose not to?
It is clear however, that Jesus carried out his mission according to God’s will. And it’s a game changer for those who respond to him.
Philippians 2:5-11 presents the humanity of Jesus Christ
2:7-8 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
In V.8, the word for human form is schema. It refers to the outward appearance that changes and may be temporary. In other words, Jesus physically grew and matured like every other human. It’s a radical idea. And what separates Christianity from all other religions. That God, the creator, came to earth as a human.
The Greek word for taking is labon and implies an addition, not an exchange. In other words, Jesus didn’t stop being God to become human. He added humanity to his divine essence. He was fully man and fully God.
So from what did Jesus empty himself? This question has sparked an extensive theological discussion around what is called the kenosis’ theory. And is beyond the scope of this article. But I like what a number of scholars suggest. That Jesus chose not to exercise the full extent of his divine privilege.
And he humbled himself at 3 levels:
In taking on a human form
In sacrificing himself for our sin
In accepting the most horrible, humiliating death of the day–crucifixion
Philippians 2:5-11 presents the final exaltation of Jesus Christ
You have a will. A choice. And you’re free to believe in, disbelieve and to accept or reject Jesus Christ.
V.9 Therefore God has highly exalted him…
The Greek word for exalted is hyperypsóō and means to raise to the highest position. After Jesus humbled himself to redeem mankind, God raised him up. It’s a message passed on to Christ-followers as well. That God encourages and rewards humility.
V. 10-11so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
But Paul says a time is coming when everyone acknowledges him. Not because you are forced to. But because you will be overwhelmed in the presence of his glory.
Join me next week in a study of Philippians 2:12-18. Have you checked out my Christian detective novels Soul Pursuit, or Finding Grace yet? Hope you will. I’ve also published some non-fiction Christian books. Take a look here.
Philippians 2:1-4 discusses the topic of church unity. Paul identifies the motivations and qualities that promote unity along with the importance of an outward focus.
Philippians 2:1-4 discusses the motivations that promote church unity
Church is not simply a building. Or a weekly worship service for your religious fix. It is a group of Christ-followers who meet regularly and relationally. Who do life together in the name of Jesus Christ. But they are all still sinners. So problems within a church are inevitable. And unity is an important, but difficult challenge.
REFLECT AND RECORD
What are some church conflicts you’ve experienced? Describe them, their cause and the result? What motivations fueled or diffused them?
We face different challenges in life. And often, our success or failure depends on the level of motivation. How bad do you want it? In this passage Paul begins with a discussion on motivations.
And he frames it with an “if” and “then.”
V.1 So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy
In other words, IF you have these motivations. Let’s break them down.
Encouragement in Christ—Encouragement in Greek is paraklēsis, which means to exhort. Literally, a calling to one’s side, or to one’s aid. Christ-followers should encourage and come alongside one another both physically and in their faith journey.
Comfort from love—The Greek for comfort is paramythion, which also means consolation. It infers a sense of constraint and speaking to other Christ-followers in a friendly manner. As Paul advises in Ephesians 4:15, it’s not just what you say, but your tone of voice in how you say it.
Participation in the spirit—Participation is the Greek word koinōnia discussed in the study on 1:26-30. It is the unique sense of community fostered by the presence of the Holy Spirit when Christ followers gather. He is the spiritual super glue that holds the church together.
Affection and sympathy—Affection is the Greek word splanchnon which also means compassion. In other words, genuine caring for others. As Jesus demonstrated compassion and caring, we are to follow his example. Especially to our brothers and sisters in Christ at church..
Philippians 2:1-4 discusses the qualities that promote church unity
V. 2 complete my joy by… being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.
Okay, Paul doesn’t actually say “then” but it’s implied. Notice also, he doesn’t demand compliance from a position of apostolic authority or guilt them into submission. But persuasively suggests it would really make him happy to see them demonstrate these qualities. It would make the joy he expressed for them in chapter 1:3 complete.
Same mind andone mind–Both use the same Greek word phronéō, which means to think or plan. Share the same opinion. A church must move together in how it thinks. And this is directed by God’s word and the leading of his Spirit. So it’s important for Christ-followers to individually and regularly pray and study the Bible. There will always be differences in interpretations, but there can be agreement on fundamental truth and important doctrines within a body of believers.
having the same love–The agape love that motivates Christ-followers should also be expressed among them. It includes support, encouragement, and accountability. And a willingness to seek and extend forgiveness.
being in full accord –The Greek word for accord is sumpsuchŏs and means similar in sentiment and like-minded. In other words, a synonym for phronéō.
Philippians 2:1-4 discusses the outward focus important to unity
REFLECT AND RECORD
What comes to mind when you consider people that demonstrate humility? How is it expressed or lacking in your own life?
V.3-4 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Jesus warned about humility posers. People who showcased virtuous acts to demonstrate moral goodness. And he told stories that exposed the hearts behind certain acts of charitable giving and pious prayers.
And now, Paul identifies a simple principle of Biblical humility. Take your eyes off yourself and focus on others. In other words, it has very little to do with how you present yourself. But where you focus your attention. It’s not thinking less of yourself, but thinking about yourself less.
Join me next week in a study of Philippians 2:5-11. Have you checked out Soul Pursuit, or Finding Grace yet? Hope you will. I’ve also published some non-fiction Christian books. Take a look here.
Philippians 1:26-30 encourages worthy discipleship, calls for unity, courage against the culture, and warns about the cost of discipleship.
Philippians 1:26-30 calls Christ-followers to be worthy of the Gospel
V.27 Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ…
We sometimes act like we’re doing Jesus a favor by following him. But Paul suggests the opposite. Jesus did us the favor. And our lives should demonstrate appreciation.
The Greek word for worthy is axiōs, which means appropriately and after a godly sort.
In other words, does your Christian walk reflect a Godly lifestyle that is appropriate for a Christ-follower? Is your Christian conduct worthy of the sacrifice Jesus made for you?
REFLECT AND RECORD
What does it mean to live a Godly lifestyle? How should that lifestyle present itself at home, work, church and in social settings? How would you rate your walk as worthy of the gospel of Christ?
Philippians 1:26-30 calls for unity among Christ-followers
V. 27 that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, and not frightened in anything by your opponents.
Let’s break it down.
Standing firm…
The winds of social change are blowing. But God’s word remains the same. And Paul urges us to stand firm with unwavering moral convictions. While our culture flees from them at increasing speed. We’re pulled to go with the flow. Join the crowd. Because we want to belong. However, standing firm will leave you behind a morally moving culture. And you will have to decide. Go or stay?
One spirit…
Spirit is the Greek word pneúma that means wind, breath, life, and Spirit. It refers specifically to the third person of the Trinity–the Holy Spirit–who indwells every Christ-follower. He guides, encourages, convicts of sin, illuminates scripture and creates a spiritual community among Christ-followers described by the Greek word, Koinonia. The spiritual bond that unifies the church.
One mind…
The Greek word for mind is psychḗ, which means life and soul. The being part of human being. In Philippians Chapter 2, Paul uses a different Greek word for mind that we’ll look at next week. For now, let’s not over think his meaning here. Maybe he’s simply calling for oneness as living souls.
Striving side by side…
The Greek word synathléō promotes the idea of striving, suffering, and working together.
In other words, Christ-followers are individually disciples and corporately the body of Christ. It’s a relationship compared to marriage. And sticks together in good and bad times.
Philippians 1:26-30 calls for courage against the culture
V. 28 not frightened in anything by your opponents.
As Paul said in V. 20, he didn’t want to be ashamed, but full of courage. And now he encourages the Philippians not to fear their opponents either.
Easier said than done, right?
Especially in a morally intimidating culture. One that threatens cancellation to gain support for morals that oppose Biblical teaching. So how should we respond? Compromise on convictions? Hold fast, but remain quiet?
Presently, Godliness and Biblical truth are increasingly labeled intolerant. The moral divide between Christianity and culture grows wider. And simultaneously, puts the two on a head-on collision course.
REFLECT AND RECORD
Share a memory on how you navigated social pressure growing up? How does rejection come into play? What is your greatest concern as a Christ-follower in an anti-Christian culture?
V. 28 This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation
When you live a Godly life, it exposes the ungodliness around you. Because you’re a living testimony that glorifies God. And a witness that influences others by your positive example.
“‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’” (Acts 13:47)
However, others may resist and mock your faith. Exclude you from social circles. And try to take you down. Because righteous living illuminates sin. This where God is your refuge.
You, O Lord, will keep them; you will guard us from this generation forever. On every side the wicked prowl, as vileness is exalted among the children of man. (Psalm 12:7-8)
Philippians 1:26-30 warns Christ-followers about persecution
V. 29 For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake
Jesus Christ ultimately suffered for our sake. And Paul says those who follow him may suffer too. Jesus said the same thing.
And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. (Luke 9:23)
Christ-followers in other countries already suffer persecution. Although it’s still a religious freedom in America, Christianity has certainly lost favor in the mainstream culture. And is under increasing attack. How should we respond?
REFLECT AND RECORD
Can you remember a time someone mocked you for your Christian faith? How did you respond? How should we relate to others as sinners saved by grace, but disciples of Christ who strive to live righteously?
Join me next week in a look at Philippians 2:1-4. Also, check out my Christian detective novel Soul Pursuit, and Finding Grace, the next one in the series.
Philippians 1:19-25 expresses Paul’s sense of celebration, identifies his source of strength, and his reason for confidence.
Philippians 1:19-25 surpasses a positive attitude to one of celebration
But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy. (ESV, Psalm 5:11)
Throughout the Bible, Christ-followers are encouraged to rejoice and express joy. Why? Because a relationship with Jesus Christ releases you from the bondage of sin and grants you eternal life with him. And that should cause an ongoing celebration.
V. 19 I will rejoice…
So Paul ends v.18 and begins v.19 by repeating the same word…rejoice. Just in case you missed it the first time. Rejoice is the Greek word chairo and the Greek word chara is translated joy.
James, the half brother of Jesus, goes more extreme with the idea. He instructs Christ-followers to express joy even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. (ESV, James 1:2)
REFLECT AND RECORD
Consider a difficult circumstance you’ve experienced. How would you rate your level of joy as you navigated it? What factors contributed to how it went? What might you have done differently?
Philippians 1:19-25 identifies Paul’s source of strength
V. 19 for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance
Christianity doesn’t pretend you can summon a power from within. Instead, it recognizes that we are weak. Vulnerable. And gain our strength and support from a community of believers and the power of God.
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (ESV, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10)
Paul readily and unashamedly identifies his source of strength: the prayers of the Philippian church and the presence of the Holy Spirit. We don’t understand how prayer works. But know that it does. And Paul regularly asked for prayer support in his ministry. Jesus too, regularly prayed and encouraged the same from his followers. And he told several parables about the impact prayer has in the life of believers.
Furthermore, Christ-followers lean on the Holy Spirit for help. In fact the Holy Spirit is often identified by the Greek word paráklētos, which means advocate and helper.
REFLECT AND RECORD
Take a moment to reflect on and describe times when you sensed the prayer of others. What about when you felt weak and the power of the Holy Spirit sustained you. What did you learn about Christian community and the power of God from those times?
Philippians 1:19-25 explains the reason for Paul’s confidence
V. 21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
Paul is unsure of his future. The Greek word for deliverance in V.19 is soteria, which means salvation. Does Paul mean salvation from prison and physical freedom or spiritual salvation if he’s martyred?
It’s not clear. But he’s good either way.
V. 22 If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me…
If he lives, Paul will faithfully serve God. He doesn’t plan to retire, kick back, and enjoy the good life. That comes in heaven.
V. 25 I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith,
Rather, Paul feels responsible as a spiritual mentor to the Philippian church. He wants to support and encourage them on a path of discipleship that is characterized by joy. And demonstrate a Christian life that serves as an example. One still worth following today.
In what ways do you encourage others in the Christian faith? Would you describe your witness as someone who cowers or stands courageously for Christ? How well do you exemplify what discipleship looks like?
Join me next week in a look at Philippians 1:26-30. Also, check out my Christian detective novel Soul Pursuit, and Finding Grace, the next one in the series.
Background on the book of Philippians begins with its author–the Apostle Paul. He wrote it as a letter to the church while he was imprisoned in Rome. Here are other elements that form the background on the book of Philippians.
Background on the book of Philippians involves the city of Philippi
The city of Philippi was named after Philip of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great. It was a Roman colony where many Roman soldiers retired and its inhabitants enjoyed the privileges of Roman citizenship.
These colonies, located on the outskirts of the Roman empire, and populated with former soldiers, effectively secured the empire borders.
The book of Philippians is commonly called one of Paul’s prison epistles. Paul wrote two other epistles during his prison stay. The New Testament books of Ephesians and Colossians.
Background on the book of Philippians involves a call by God
God uses Christ-followers to carry out his will. And God initially called Paul while traveling to the city of Damascus. At the time, Paul actively persecuted the Christian church. But on the road to Damascus, God appeared to him in a blinding light.
Because of the encounter, Paul commits his life to Christ and makes a course correction. Ok actually, a complete change in direction. And what the Bible calls repentance.
Has God ever affected a course correction in your life? Take a moment to reflect and write down what it involved. How did it impact your life today?
Then Paul dreamed about a man from Macedonia who asked for his help. And he concluded God was calling him to go there and preach the gospel.
Background on the book of Philippians involves a woman entreprenuer
So Paul ends up in the city of Phillip and on the Sabbath, he looks for a group of Jewish worshipers to join. And he meets Lydia, a business woman who sells purple cloth.
She’s described as a “worshiper of God” which probably means she practiced the Jewish faith. But when Paul shares the gospel with her, she opens her heart to faith in Jesus and is baptized. And immediately offers her home as a meeting place for other followers of Jesus.
Background on the book of Philippians involves a fortune teller
Next Paul encounters a young, demon possessed slave girl. And the demon gives her the power of fortune telling, which is highly profitable for her owners.
As Paul and Silas share the gospel around the city, she follows them for several days announcing, These men are servants of the Most High God who proclaim to you the way of salvation.
It’s easy to imagine her mocking tone of voice. As if to say, these guys are complete losers. Take them seriously and you’re a loser too. Similar to the way many skeptics view Christ-followers today.
But after several days of this verbal onslaught, Paul had enough. He commanded the evil spirit to leave her.
It obeys Paul’s command and with the vacating spirit went the slave girl’s fortune telling abilities. Her lucrative income. Which left her owners very unhappy.
So they dragged Paul and Silas before the city rulers and complained. And the rulers–seeking to please the citizenship–had Paul and Silas beaten and thrown in jail.
Background on the book of Philippians involves a suicidal jailer
That evening around midnight, with bruised bodies and feet lock in stocks, Paul and Silas do just what you expect after a hard beating…pray and sing hymns to God.
Suddenly, an earthquake occurs, prison doors fly open, chains fall off, and the jailer behaves with a clear head. He draws his sword to kill himself. An impulsive, act first, think later, knee jerk reaction that accomplishes half your goal.
He stops, however, when Paul assures him no one has escaped. And he falls before them and asks how to be saved.
They share the gospel with him, he believes in Jesus, and then takes them into his house and treats their wounds.
The next day, the city rulers told the Jailer to let Paul and Silas go. But Paul tells him to inform those leaders that he and Silas are Roman citizens who were denied due process. And demands the city rulers to personally escort them from jail.
Which they do. Afterwards, Paul and Silas encourage their new group of believers and leave.
And so you get a glimpse into the beginning of the Philippian church.
Join me next week as I dive into Philippians 1:1-5.
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