What does Philippians 2:2 mean?

The implication of the previous verse is that the Philippian believers have experienced such positive benefits. This sets up the point Paul makes here in verse 2. Because they had experienced encouragement, fellowship, and mercy, they were to complete Paul's joy in four corresponding ways.

First, they were to be of the "same mind," or united in their purpose and motivations.

Second, they were to be united in love. Paul mentions love throughout this letter (Philippians 1:9, 16; 2:1; 4:1). This has always been a primary hallmark of the Christian (John 13:34–35).

Third, they were to be in "full accord." This is a general reference to unity, apparently a problem for some in the church. There were false teachers promoting Jewish laws, including circumcision, as a requirement for believers. In addition, at least some members were in disagreement with one another (Philippians 4:2). Paul spoke in other places about the need to allow others to have differences of opinion (Romans 14:13–19). So, what he's discussing here is a reference to more serious, divisive problems.

Fourth, they were to be of "one mind." This appears to be similar to the first trait listed of "same mind." However, the wording may simply be poetic or parallel to reflect the four traits in the previous verse. This final concept of "one mind" would then correspond to "any affection and sympathy" in verse 1, revealing a connection between affection and unity.