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Philippians 2

30 verses

TL;DR

Paul urges the Philippian believers to emulate Christ’s humility, unite in love, and work out their salvation diligently, while reflecting on his concern for their well‑being and his reliance on God’s providence.

Summary

In Philippians 2 Paul begins with a plea for unity and mutual love, instructing the church to look beyond self‑interest and to adopt the humility of Christ. He then recounts Christ’s incarnation and self‑emptying to become a servant, culminating in His exaltation by God. Paul exhorts the believers to pursue their salvation with reverence, to work without complaints, and to shine as lights in a corrupt world. He expresses gratitude for their labor, noting that their joy is intertwined with his. Paul also speaks of his intent to send Timothy and Epaphroditus, thanking them for their ministry, and encourages the Philippians to receive Epaphroditus with gladness. He concludes with assurance that his own visit will come soon and ends with an exhortation to continue in their shared mission.

Outline
  1. 1‑4: Call to humility and unity; 5‑11: Christ’s humility and exaltation; 12‑16: Exhortation to diligent salvation; 17‑30: Paul’s concern for the Philippians, sending Timothy and Epaphroditus.
Themes
Christ’s humility and obedienceUnity and love in the Christian communityThe believer’s diligent pursuit of salvation
Keywords
ChristhumilityobediencesalvationlovefellowshipexaltationcrossservantPhilippians
People
PaulTimothyEpaphroditusJesus Christ
Places
Philippi
Things
crossservantlowlinesssalvation
Key Verses
  • Philippians 2:5-8: Christ’s self‑emptying model of humility
  • Philippians 2:9-11: God’s exaltation of Jesus and universal submission to His name
  • Philippians 2:12-13: Instruction for believers to actively work out their salvation with God’s help
  • Philippians 2:26-27: Illustration of Paul’s reliance on God’s mercy in the care of Epaphroditus
Questions
  • How does Paul define humility, and how is it modeled by Christ?
  • In what ways can believers “work out” their salvation?
  • Why does Paul emphasize the importance of receiving Epaphroditus with gladness?
  • What does Paul mean when he says the believers should shine as lights in a corrupt world?
  • How do Timothy and Epaphroditus illustrate God’s providence in Paul’s mission?
Sentiment

mixed
The passage contains exhortation and praise, but also grief and hope, reflecting a balanced emotional tone.