Philippians 2:2 - Printer Friendly

ESV: complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.

NIV: then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.

NASB: make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.

CSB: make my joy complete by thinking the same way, having the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.

NLT: Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.

KJV: Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.

NKJV: fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.

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.

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.

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.

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.