Philippians 2 3

Philippians 2:3 kjv

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Philippians 2:3 nkjv

Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.

Philippians 2:3 niv

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,

Philippians 2:3 esv

Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

Philippians 2:3 nlt

Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves.

Philippians 2 verses

Philippians 2 3 Meaning

This verse emphasizes humility and putting others' interests above one's own. It calls for believers to act without selfish ambition or vain conceit, reflecting the mindset of Christ. The core message is about selfless love and prioritizing the well-being and growth of others, especially fellow believers.

Philippians 2 3 Context

This verse is found in Paul's letter to the Philippians, written from prison. The Philippian church was a vibrant community, but like many, they faced internal challenges. Paul wrote to encourage them in their faith, to express his affection, and to address potential disunity or pride within the congregation. Chapter 2 begins with an exhortation to unity and unity stems from a humble, selfless mindset. Verse 3 directly sets the stage for the profound example of Christ's humility in verses 5-11. Paul urges the Philippians to abandon any "selfish ambition" or "vain conceit" which are seen as root causes of division and conflict.

Philippians 2 3 Word analysis

• "Undēn" (οὐδὲν): "not even one," "nothing." It signifies the complete absence of something.

• "kat' (κατὰ): A preposition often translated as "according to," "down," "against," or "through." Here it functions to indicate the manner or source of action.

• "eritheian" (ἐριθείαν): From erithos (ἔριθος), a hired laborer, or one who scrambles for a livelihood. In the New Testament, it denotes selfish ambition, partisanship, rivalry, factious contention, or a spirit of seeking office or personal advancement through factionalism and contention. It implies striving against others rather than with them.

• "physiōsin" (φυσίωσιν): From physioō (φυσινόω), meaning to inflate with air, to puff up. It denotes vain glory, arrogance, conceit, or haughtiness. It describes a swollen, self-important state of mind.

• "allo is" (ἀλλὰ): "but." A strong adversative conjunction, introducing the contrast to what is being rejected.

• "humōn" (ὑμῶν): "your."

• "ta" (τὰ): The definite article, "the."

• "heterou" (ἑτέρου): "another." In this context, it refers to a different person, another believer.

• "humeterōs" (ὑμ]"; A superlative adjective derived from heteros, meaning "another's." It's an objective genitive. The phrase means "the interests of others."

• "skopountes" (σκοποῦντες): Present participle of skopeō (σκοπέω), meaning to look at, to behold, to consider, to aim at. It implies diligent attention and purposeful focus. It carries the sense of considering or aiming at something.

• "each" (hekastos - ἕκαστος): Refers to each individual person within the group.

• "Do nothing from selfish ambition or vain conceit": This is a direct prohibition against acting from these underlying motives. The conjunction "or" shows that both are excluded, and often one fuels the other.

• "but through humility consider others better than yourselves": This is the positive counterpart. It is not just about not doing certain things, but actively cultivating an inner disposition. The phrase "consider others better" isn't about self-deprecation in terms of capabilities but about valuing their standing, rights, and well-being above your own.

Philippians 2 3 Bonus section

The Greek terms eritheia and physiosis highlight specific corrupting influences. Eritheia often described political strife or the rivalries common in public life in the ancient world. Physiosis speaks to the arrogance of philosophical schools or the pride often associated with perceived spiritual or intellectual superiority. Paul’s address in Philippians challenges the Corinthians to transcend such worldliness in their own Christian community. The practical application involves self-examination before action: "Is my motivation my own glory or God's and the good of my brother?" It also involves seeking opportunities to serve, to listen, and to defer in everyday interactions within the church and in wider society, embodying the spirit of Christ who "did not come to be served, but to serve."

Philippians 2 3 Commentary

Paul's instruction in Philippians 2:3 is a foundational principle for Christian conduct and unity. The absence of "selfish ambition" (eritheian) and "vain conceit" (physiōsin) is crucial. Selfish ambition drives one to advance oneself at the expense of others, often through competitive or divisive means. Vain conceit is the inflated ego that makes one feel superior, blind to the worth and needs of others. The positive command is to humble oneself and genuinely value others as superior. This is not a mere outward show but an inward reorientation of priorities, a genuine care for the interests of fellow believers. It's about looking "at the interests of others," actively seeking their welfare, and putting their needs before one's own. This humble, other-centered attitude is a direct reflection of Christ's own self-emptying act described in the following verses. It requires active spiritual discipline to cultivate, but it is essential for true Christian unity and love.