Scripture Reference: Philippians 2:1-11

In the previous chapter of Philippians Paul had written about living the Christian life in harmony with the message on which it is based. He followed that message with a call to show forth spiritual unity. This unity is possible because of the reality of the four qualities mentioned in verse one of this second chapter. The “if” clauses, being translations of first-class conditions in Greek, speak of certainties. So in this passage “if” may be translated “since.” Paul wrote here about realities, not questionable things. Paul appealed on the basis of (a) consolation or encouragement from being united with Christ . . . (b) comfort from His love . . . (c) fellowship with the Spirit . . . (d) affection and mercy.

“Consolation” is from a Greek word related to the one Christ used in referring to the Holy Spirit as “the Counselor” (John 14:16; “Comforter,” as found in the KJV ). It may also be translated “encouragement” or “exhortation” in the sense of either rebuke or comfort. Since each believer had received this work of the Spirit, Paul used it as a basis to appeal for their spiritual unity.

Also they each had “comfort of [God’s] love.” God’s love in people’s hearts produces spiritual unity in their lives.

“Fellowship of [with] the Spirit” is a result of the Spirit’s permanent indwelling ministry (compare to 1 Corinthians 6:19). This may refer, however, to fellowship that comes from the Holy Spirit, just as encouragement comes from Christ and comfort comes from God’s love.

Paul also spoke of “affection (see Philemon 7, 20) and mercy.” One of the Spirit’s ministries is to produce within each believer a concern and love for other members of God’s family. This may be received or rejected by a believer, but the Spirit’s work is a reality and is a basis for spiritual unity.

Paul then exhorted his readers to show in practical ways the unity which was theirs in Christ. Their expression of that spiritual unity would make his joy complete. Corresponding to the four realities mentioned in verse 1 are four specific ways in which their spiritual unity would be realized. They would be (a) like-minded. . . (b) having the same love. . . (c) being of one accord . . . (d) being one in purpose.

Paul also gave further exhortations, also based on the declaration of the fourfold reality expressed in verse 1. The terms the apostle used reveal an underlying problem in the church at Philippi. The situation Paul addressed evidently was prompted by self-centeredness among certain Christians.

“Let nothing be done through selfish ambition.” The same word in the original Greek appears in Philippians 1:17 to describe the attitude of those who opposed Paul. Without question such behavior is of the flesh and not the Spirit (compare Galatians 5:20, which uses the same word). Paul’s use of the word “conceit,” meaning “empty glory,” was probably the root cause of their selfish ambition.

To Be Continued

Adapted and modified excerpts from Robert P. Lightner, “Philippians,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, Volume 2.
Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from the New King James Version®, NKJV © 1982 by Thomas Nelson.
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