Philippians Chapter 2 — The Humility and Exaltation of Christ
Paul encourages the Philippian believers to practice humility and unity by following the example of Christ's sacrificial love and service.
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Notable Verses
Philippians 2:5-7
“Have this in your mind, which was also in Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, didn’t consider equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant...”
This passage illustrates the core theological concept of Christ's incarnation and sacrificial humility.
Philippians 2:10-11
“that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, those on earth, and those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
These verses describe the ultimate exaltation and universal recognition of Jesus Christ's authority.
Philippians 2:13
“For it is God who works in you both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”
This verse emphasizes God's active role in the spiritual growth and actions of the believer.
Chapter Summary
Philippians Chapter 2 opens with a call for unity through humility, urging believers to look out for the interests of others rather than just their own. Paul introduces the 'Christ Hymn,' describing how Jesus, though existing in the form of God, did not cling to His status but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant and becoming obedient even to death on a cross. Because of this humility, God highly exalted Him and gave Him a name above every name. Paul then encourages the church to work out their salvation with reverence, shining as lights in the world by avoiding complaining and arguing. The chapter concludes with Paul’s updates regarding his companions. He expresses hope to send Timothy to them soon, praising Timothy's genuine concern for the church. He also explains the return of Epaphroditus, who had become gravely ill while serving Paul but was mercifully healed by God, and instructs the Philippians to receive him with joy and honor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Paul is encouraging believers to put their faith into practice through continued obedience and reverence. The text clarifies in the next verse that it is God who provides the internal desire and power to act according to His purpose.
Paul uses Jesus as the ultimate example of humility to show that greatness comes from serving others. He explains that even though Jesus shared God's nature, He chose to set aside His status to serve humanity, providing a model for how believers should treat one another.
Epaphroditus was a fellow worker and messenger sent by the Philippian church to help Paul during his imprisonment. He became dangerously ill to the point of death while serving, but Paul notes that God had mercy on him and restored his health.
Paul instructs the believers to live blameless and harmless lives without complaining or arguing. By doing so, they stand out as examples of God's character in the middle of a difficult and crooked generation.
Study Note
The passage spanning verses 6 through 11 is often referred to as the 'Carmen Christi' or 'Hymn to Christ,' representing one of the earliest recorded liturgical expressions of New Testament theology.
Related Chapters
Matthew 20
Jesus teaches that the greatest among His followers must be a servant, echoing the themes of humility in Philippians 2.
John 1
The description of Christ's divinity and incarnation in this chapter complements the theological focus of the Word becoming flesh.
Isaiah 45
The language of every knee bowing and every tongue confessing in Philippians 2:10-11 refers back to prophetic themes in Isaiah.
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