In Chapter One, Paul has not only greeted and prayed for his disciples in Philippi, but also set the stage for the very centerpiece of his letter, the “hymn of Christ” found in Philippians 2.5-11. Paul has presented his life as an example of Christ-centered, Gospel-focused choices. He demonstrated the “fruitful labor” of Kingdom work in spite of circumstances. Paul used his own life as an example to both encourage and challenge these precious disciples to “let your manner of life be worthy of the Gospel of Christ” (1.27). He confidently affirmed that the believers in Philippi, not only have him, but also have God’s very Spirit who is working in them (and us!) and equipping them (and us!).

It is now, in Chapter Two, that he progresses with his exhortation. Paul is not the penultimate example, but believers should be looking to Christ. All of our encouragement and equipping has a divine purpose...to, in humility, love others.

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13

Philippians 2.1-4

1 So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, 2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. 3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ When one sees “so” at the beginning of a passage, what should the reader of Scripture do?

+ How is this first verse of Chapter Two a great “review” of Chapter One?

+ List the four key ideas from Chapter 1 (v. 2.1). How are these four ideas important as a precursor to humility and loving others?

+ As Paul builds his exhortation to the Philippian believers, what will “complete his joy?” (v. 2.2)

+ Often we learn what to do by also learning what NOT to do. What two things should we avoid (v. 2.3)?

+ Instead, in the rest of verse 3, Paul says we should, “in humility, _______________________.” Why is this both important and easier said than done?

+ How does the repetition in verse 4, sharpen Paul’s words in verse 3?

+ How does this introduction set up the reader to hear about Christ’s penultimate humility and love in the next seven verses?

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ In what ways is the Spirit of Truth convicting you to actively seek to see the needs of others? How can you and I act on what we are shown by the Spirit today?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ As Paul greeted, prayed for, and encouraged the believers in Philippi—who, in your life, might benefit from this kind of prayer and discipleship? Could you/I send an encouraging letter via social media or snail mail today? Could you/I set up a time to meet for a meal or a coffee? Could you/I fill up your pool of truth and love through God’s Word so we can spill truth and love into the lives of others?