What is the main message of Philippians chapter 2?

Philippians chapter 2 is one of the most profound and theologically rich chapters in the New Testament. Written by the Apostle Paul during his imprisonment, this chapter encapsulates the essence of Christian humility, unity, and the exaltation of Christ. It serves as a cornerstone for understanding the attitude and behavior expected of a believer in Christ. The chapter can be divided into three main sections: the call to unity and humility (verses 1-4), the Christ Hymn (verses 5-11), and exhortations to live out one's salvation (verses 12-18).

The Call to Unity and Humility (Philippians 2:1-4)

Paul begins this chapter by appealing to the Philippians to live in unity and humility. He writes:

"Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." (Philippians 2:1-4, NIV)

Paul’s appeal is deeply rooted in the communal experience of the believers. He uses conditional clauses ("if any") to remind them of the spiritual blessings they have received: encouragement from being united with Christ, comfort from His love, fellowship with the Spirit, and tenderness and compassion. These blessings are not just individual experiences but are meant to be shared within the community, fostering unity and mutual care.

Paul’s exhortation to "do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit" is a call to reject the self-centered attitudes that can disrupt community life. Instead, he urges the believers to practice humility by valuing others above themselves and looking out for the interests of others. This radical call to humility and selflessness is counter-cultural and goes against the grain of human nature, which often seeks self-promotion and personal gain.

The Christ Hymn (Philippians 2:5-11)

The centerpiece of Philippians 2 is the Christ Hymn, a poetic and theological masterpiece that portrays the humility and exaltation of Christ. Paul writes:

"In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!

Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:5-11, NIV)

This hymn captures the essence of Christ’s incarnation, His voluntary humiliation, and His subsequent exaltation. It begins with the pre-existence of Christ, who, being in the very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be exploited for His own benefit. Instead, He emptied Himself, taking on the form of a servant and being made in human likeness. This self-emptying (kenosis) is a profound mystery and a demonstration of ultimate humility and love.

Christ’s humility is further exemplified in His obedience to death, even death on a cross. The cross was a symbol of shame and suffering, yet Christ embraced it willingly for the sake of humanity’s redemption. Paul uses this example to encourage the Philippians to adopt the same mindset of humility and self-sacrifice in their relationships with one another.

The hymn then shifts to Christ’s exaltation. Because of His obedience and humility, God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above every name. This exaltation signifies that Jesus is Lord, and every knee should bow and every tongue confess His lordship. This declaration of Jesus as Lord is a central tenet of Christian faith and a source of hope and encouragement for believers.

Exhortations to Live Out One's Salvation (Philippians 2:12-18)

Following the Christ Hymn, Paul exhorts the Philippians to live out their salvation with fear and trembling. He writes:

"Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, 'children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.' Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me." (Philippians 2:12-18, NIV)

Paul’s command to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling" is not a call to earn salvation through works but an exhortation to live out the implications of their salvation in daily life. The phrase "with fear and trembling" signifies a reverent and serious approach to one's spiritual growth and obedience to God. The believers are to recognize that it is God who works in them, enabling them to will and act according to His good purpose.

Paul also addresses the attitude with which the believers are to live out their faith. He commands them to do everything without grumbling or arguing. This instruction is crucial for maintaining unity and peace within the community. By avoiding negative attitudes and behaviors, the believers can become blameless and pure, shining like stars in a dark and corrupt world. Their lives are to be a testimony to the transforming power of the gospel, holding firmly to the word of life.

Paul concludes this section by expressing his joy and willingness to be poured out like a drink offering for the sake of the Philippians' faith. His sacrificial service is a model for the believers to follow, and he encourages them to share in his joy and rejoice together.

Conclusion

Philippians chapter 2 presents a powerful message of humility, unity, and the exaltation of Christ. Paul’s appeal to the believers to live in unity and humility, his depiction of Christ’s self-emptying and exaltation, and his exhortations to live out one's salvation with reverence and joy provide a comprehensive guide for Christian living. This chapter challenges believers to adopt the mindset of Christ, to value others above themselves, and to shine as lights in a dark world. It is a timeless message that continues to inspire and transform lives today.