Philippians 2:3

Philippians 2:3 (ESV)

Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

• Theologian: C.S. Lewis
• Background: A British writer and lay theologian known for his works on Christian apologetics such as Mere Christianity. His belief emphasized practical faith and humility modeled after Christ.
• Year: 1942
• Context: Written in Mere Christianity to address Christian behavior in a self-centered world.

• Theologian: John Calvin
• Background: A leading figure in the Reformation, Calvin's works emphasized God's sovereignty and human dependence on grace.
• Year: 1559
• Context: From Institutes of the Christian Religion, where Calvin elaborates on the Christian life in the community.

• Theologian: Dietrich Bonhoeffer
• Background: A German pastor and theologian who opposed Nazi ideology, emphasizing costly discipleship and the importance of community.
• Year: 1937
• Context: From Life Together, which reflects on living in Christ-centered fellowship.

Historical Setting and Author Background

Philippians was written by Paul during his imprisonment in Rome around AD 61. The church at Philippi, founded during Paul's second missionary journey (Acts 16), was known for its generosity and partnership in the gospel. Philippians 2 forms part of Paul's exhortation for unity and humility, reflecting Christ's example in the incarnation and crucifixion.

Although written in Greek, Philippians draws from Hebrew concepts:

• Humility (anavah - עֲנָוָה): Connotes meekness and a submissive spirit. Pronounced: ah-nah-VAH.
• Significant (kaved - כָּבֵד): Rooted in heaviness or weight, symbolizing honor. Pronounced: kah-VAYD.

• Selfish Ambition (eritheia, ἐριθεία): Refers to strife or rivalry, often linked to self-promotion.
• Conceit (kenodoxia, κενοδοξία): Literally "empty glory," highlighting pride without substance.
• Humility (tapeinophrosyne, ταπεινοφροσύνη): A mindset of lowliness in view of God's greatness.
• Count (hegeomai, ἡγέομαι): To lead or consider, implying intentional judgment.

Major Themes:

• Christlike humility as the foundation for unity.
• The contrast between self-centeredness and others-focused living.

Minor Themes:

• Servanthood as modeled by Christ.
• The value of community in the Christian life.

Example: A manager at a workplace promoting their team's contributions above their own demonstrates humility. Their actions foster collaboration and respect, leading to a healthier, Christ-honoring environment.

Takeaway: Humility allows us to reflect Christ's character, putting others' needs above personal ambition.

Old Testament Connections:

• Micah 6:8: "To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
• Proverbs 15:33: "Humility comes before honor."

New Testament Connections:

• Matthew 23:12: "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted."
• Ephesians 4:2: "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love."

Philippians 2:3 is a call to live counter to worldly ambition by valuing others. Rooted in Christ's humility, it urges believers to foster unity and selflessness. The verse connects Old Testament wisdom with the New Testament model of Christ.

Heavenly Father,

We come before You as men seeking to lead with humility and strength. Help us reflect the character of Christ in all we do, counting others as more significant than ourselves. Let our words and actions honor You, fostering unity and selflessness in our families, workplaces, and communities. Empower us to walk humbly, love deeply, and serve faithfully. 

In Jesus' name, Amen.