Philippians 2 21

Philippians 2:21 kjv

For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's.

Philippians 2:21 nkjv

For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus.

Philippians 2:21 niv

For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.

Philippians 2:21 esv

For they all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.

Philippians 2:21 nlt

All the others care only for themselves and not for what matters to Jesus Christ.

Philippians 2 verses

Philippians 2 21 Meaning

Philippians 2:21 expresses a sharp contrast between most individuals around Paul, who prioritized their own interests, and the rare, exemplary dedication of Timothy, who genuinely sought the interests of Jesus Christ. It highlights a common human tendency toward self-focus versus the selfless, Christ-centered devotion called for in the Gospel.

Philippians 2 21 Context

Philippians 2:21 appears in Paul's letter to the Philippian church. The immediate context, starting from verse 1, is Paul's fervent plea for unity, humility, and selflessness among believers, famously culminating in the hymn of Christ's humility (2:5-11). After this theological foundation, Paul encourages the Philippians to "work out their salvation" (2:12-18) with the same selfless spirit. He then introduces his plan to send Timothy (2:19-20) and Epaphroditus (2:25). Verse 21 functions as Paul's stark lament and explanation for why Timothy is uniquely valuable: "For all" (or "many," referring to those he could potentially send from his current companions) sought "their own interests" (personal gain, comfort, or safety) rather than "the interests of Jesus Christ" (the advancement of the Gospel and welfare of the church). It highlights the rarity of genuinely devoted, selfless co-workers. Historically, the early church, surrounded by Roman culture emphasizing personal honor and advancement, needed consistent reminders of the counter-cultural Christian ethic of servant-hood.

Philippians 2 21 Word analysis

• For (γάρ, gar): This conjunction links the statement to the previous verse (2:20). It introduces the reason or explanation for Paul's high commendation of Timothy's unique character and dedication.
• all (πάντες, pantes): In this context, "all" functions as hyperbole, or "most," or "everyone available" within Paul's circle of potential envoys, contrasted specifically with Timothy. It underlines the widespread nature of self-concern, making Timothy's dedication even more exceptional. It does not refer to every human being on earth but to those who were generally part of his ministerial fellowship.
• seek (ζητοῦσιν, zētousin): Present tense. Implies a continuous, ongoing action or an active pursuit. It denotes an earnest search or desire for something.
• their own (τὰ ἑαυτῶν, ta heautōn): Literally, "the things of themselves." This phrase signifies self-interest, personal advantage, comfort, safety, reputation, or convenience. It encompasses anything that primarily benefits the individual rather than the wider body or the mission.
• not (οὐ, ou): A direct and absolute negative. It stands in sharp opposition, negating the preceding focus ("their own") and emphasizing the absence of the contrasting focus ("the things which are Jesus Christ’s").
• the things which are Jesus Christ’s (τὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, ta Iēsou Christou): Literally, "the things of Jesus Christ." This refers to the agenda, will, purposes, and glory of Christ. It includes the proclamation of the Gospel, the health and unity of the church, sacrificial service to God's people, and faithfulness to His mission, even at personal cost.

Word-groups analysis:

• For all seek their own: This phrase laments the common human failing, even within the Christian community, of prioritizing personal benefit. Paul expresses disappointment that even many called to ministry tended to serve for selfish motives or avoid hardship, creating a sharp contrast to Timothy.
• not the things which are Jesus Christ’s: This negates the pursuit of personal interests and directly defines the correct focus for a believer, especially a servant of Christ. It means a complete reorientation of life's priorities and actions toward God's kingdom and purpose, demonstrating a genuine, selfless commitment that mirrors Christ's own example.

Philippians 2 21 Bonus section

The lament in Philippians 2:21 provides insight into the challenging realities of early Christian ministry, even for an apostle like Paul. His choice of "all" underscores not just a common problem but perhaps a profound loneliness he felt in finding truly selfless co-workers. This observation is not merely a critique but a deeply personal expression of Paul's yearning for committed partners in the Gospel. It shows that even close companions could struggle with prioritizing the kingdom over personal gain. Timothy's unique quality then shines brighter, serving as a rare model of genuine Christ-like devotion amidst widespread self-focus. The verse, therefore, implicitly sets a high bar for Christian leadership and discipleship, advocating for a spirit of self-abandonment for the sake of Christ and His church, reminiscent of Christ's own incarnation and sacrifice.

Philippians 2 21 Commentary

Philippians 2:21 is a powerful yet poignant statement by Paul, highlighting a perennial challenge within ministry and Christian living: the temptation of self-interest. While calling for Christ-like humility (2:1-11), Paul uses Timothy as a living example. Unlike "all" (a likely hyperbole for "most" or "many") who put their personal agenda, comfort, or safety first, Timothy was genuinely consumed by the concerns of Christ – the needs of the churches, the advancement of the Gospel, and the glory of God. This verse underscores that true service in God's kingdom demands a radical reorientation of priorities, where the well-being and mission of Christ supersede personal desires. It's a call to deny self, follow Christ's example of humility and sacrifice, and faithfully seek to fulfill His will, even when it involves hardship or personal cost. This unwavering devotion is what sets apart exemplary servants in God's work.