Philippians 2 - Printer Friendly

What does Philippians 2 mean?

Chapter Commentary:

Chapter 2 emphasizes the theme of rejoicing during times of suffering. First, Paul gives Christ's own example of humility (Philippians 2:1–11). Believers were to look out for the interests of others, as well as their own (Philippians 2:4). This involves taking on the humble attitude of Christ (Philippians 2:5), expressed poetically in verses 6 through 11. The honor given Christ as a result of His modesty is that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:11).

Second, Paul emphasizes believers as lights in a world of darkness (Philippians 2:12–18). The contrast between light and darkness is a common scriptural theme. Light uncovers truth, and provides comfort and safety. Darkness is dangerous, insecure, and hides the truth.

The believers reading Paul's letter were to continue in obedience, working out their salvation in "fear and trembling" (Philippians 2:12). In context, this is a command to show, in action, the reality of one's salvation. It is not a comment about "working for" salvation, but working out salvation, through one's life.

Paul notes God was the one working in them for His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13). They were to do all things without complaining (Philippians 2:14) to shine as lights in the world (Philippians 2:15). This included holding fast to the word of life so Paul's work would not be in vain (Philippians 2:16).

Paul also speaks of being poured out as a drink offering, referring to the Old Testament ritual. Despite being "poured out" on their behalf, he is glad and rejoices (Philippians 2:17). He likewise encourages the Philippian believers to rejoice with him (Philippians 2:18). Their struggles are not in vain; all things are happening for the glory of God. Third, he gives instructions regarding Timothy and Epaphroditus (Philippians 2:19–30). Paul hoped to send Timothy to them soon to bring them good news (Philippians 2:19). Timothy sought the welfare of the Philippian Christians (Philippians 2:20). Paul spoke of Timothy as a son (Philippians 2:22), hoping to also visit personally (Philippians 2:24). Paul clearly believed he would soon be released. Scripture does record Paul's ministry after his first Roman imprisonment in the books of 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus. However, it is uncertain whether he visited these Philippian believers again.

At the time of his writing, Paul was sending Epaphroditus, a person he referred to as his brother, fellow worker, fellow soldier, messenger, and minister to his need (Philippians 2:25). Epaphroditus had been sick to the point of death, but had been healed (Philippians 2:27). The Philippians were to receive him with joy and honor him since he risked his life for the work of Christ (Philippians 2:30). Epaphroditus became an early example of a church leader sacrificing everything for the work of Christ and service to believers, offering an example to many who would follow his pattern in future days.

Philippians 2:1–5 connects the blessings of Christianity with corresponding results in a Christian's life. We experience comfort, encouragement, love, and unity as saved believers in Christ. As a result, we ought to express comfort, encouragement, love, and unity to our fellow believers. Here again, Paul emphasizes that how a Christian thinks—how they frame their attitude—is crucial to living a Christian life. This sets up a classic description of Jesus Christ's sacrifice on our behalf, starting in verse 6.

Philippians 2:6–11 is a poetic description of Jesus' willingness to humble Himself for our sake. Rather than coming first as God and King, Jesus freely took on the form of a human being. He was humiliated and oppressed, following the will of the Father, in order to be the sacrifice for our sins. As a result, ''Jesus'' will be given the ultimate glory and honor. Eventually, all people, whether they want to or not, will admit that Jesus Christ is, in fact, Lord. For some, this will happen too late.

Philippians 2:12–18 explains how Christians ought to live, considering all that Christ was willing to do for them. The command to ''work out'' salvation is a directive to let the new birth in Christ translate into actions. As a part of this, believers should serve God without griping or complaining. Paul knows that his service to God has been hard, but this is simply another form of offering. All Christians are invited to serve in the same selfless way.

Philippians 2:19–30 is Paul's instructions to the Philippian church regarding two particular men: Timothy and Epaphroditus. Timothy was a trusted friend of Paul's, who would likely be visiting the church at Philippi soon. Epaphroditus apparently had friends and contacts in this church, and had brought support from Philippi to Paul. After recovering from a near-fatal disease, Epaphroditus is the one delivering this letter from Paul and Timothy.

Chapter Summary:

Paul describes Jesus Christ as one willing to be humble, in obedience to God the Father. For this, God will exalt Jesus' name above all others. Someday, one way or another, all people will admit that Jesus Christ is Lord, and submit to Him. Paul wants the Philippian believers to live with contentment and unity, without complaining. Instructions are given regarding two visitors. The first is actually the one delivering this letter, Epaphroditus. The other is Timothy, Paul's trusted friend, who hopefully will be visiting soon.

Chapter Context:

Philippians 1 focused on the importance of perspective. A Christian's life, lived for Christ, may be hard or easy, but all things can give God glory. Chapter 2 frames this concept through the humility shown by Jesus Christ. His willingness to obey God the Father, even being crucified, is the ultimate example of humble service. In return, His name will be honored more than any other. Paul's instructions regarding Timothy and Epaphroditus also form a bridge to chapter 3, where Paul will contrast these good men with the dangers of false teachers.

Philippians is Paul's discussion of living the Christian life. In this letter to the church of Philippi, Paul highlights themes such as joy and glory. He also puts great emphasis on how a Christian's thinking—their attitude—affects the way they live out their faith. Paul is very thankful for the support of the Philippian church, but is also concerned about the influence of various false teachers. This letter is less theological than most of his other writings, and more practical.

Accessed 4/27/2024 12:22:26 PM