The Humility of Christ: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Philippians 2

Executive Summary ✨

Philippians 2 is a cornerstone of Christian theology, revealing the profound depth of Christ’s humility and subsequent exaltation. This chapter, which we will unpack today, calls believers to emulate this same humility in their relationships with one another, fostering unity and selfless service. The apostle Paul uses the example of Christ’s incarnation, death, and resurrection as the ultimate model for Christian conduct. He then highlights the faithfulness of Timothy and Epaphroditus as examples of dedication to the Gospel. Ultimately, Philippians 2 emphasizes the importance of obedience, love, and a servant’s heart in our journey towards spiritual maturity. This chapter serves as a potent reminder that true greatness lies not in power or prestige, but in humble service modeled after our Lord Jesus Christ. We’ll dive deep into how Christ’s Humility is the pathway to glory.

The second chapter of Philippians is a powerful call to unity and humility, rooted in the example of Christ Himself. Paul urges the Philippians to live in harmony, putting others before themselves. The heart of the chapter is the “Christ Hymn” (verses 5-11), a profound meditation on the incarnation, kenosis (self-emptying), obedience, death, and subsequent exaltation of Jesus. Paul then points to Timothy and Epaphroditus as examples of those who embody this spirit of self-sacrifice. We’ll explore how this impacts our modern lives.

Commentary Sections 📖

Philippians 2:1-4 – Exhortation to Unity and Humility

Original Greek: Εἴ τις οὖν παράκλησις ἐν Χριστῷ, εἴ τι παραμύθιον ἀγάπης, εἴ τις κοινωνία πνεύματος, εἴ τινα σπλάγχνα καὶ οἰκτιρμοί, πληρώσατέ μου τὴν χαράν, ἵνα τὸ αὐτὸ φρονῆτε, τὴν αὐτὴν ἀγάπην ἔχοντες, σύμψυχοι, τὸ ἓν φρονοῦντες, μηδὲν κατ’ ἐριθείαν μηδὲ κατὰ κενοδοξίαν, ἀλλὰ τῇ ταπεινοφροσύνῃ ἀλλήλους ἡγούμενοι ὑπερέχοντας ἑαυτῶν, μὴ τὰ ἑαυτῶν ἕκαστος σκοποῦντες, ἀλλὰ καὶ τὰ ἑτέρων ἕκαστοι.

KJV: If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

NKJV: Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.

Here, Paul appeals to the Philippians based on the shared experiences of Christian life: consolation in Christ, the comfort of love, fellowship of the Spirit, and compassion. He implores them to complete his joy by cultivating unity of mind and purpose. He directly connects these spiritual blessings to practical relationships within the Church.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius, in *Contra Arianos*, emphasizes the importance of unity in the Church as a reflection of the unity of the Trinity. He writes, “οὕτως οὖν καὶ ἡμεῖς, ἓν σῶμα καὶ ἓν πνεῦμα, καθὼς καὶ ἐκλήθητε ἐν μιᾷ ἐλπίδι τῆς κλήσεως ὑμῶν.” (Athanasius, *Contra Arianos*, 3.23) – “Thus also we, one body and one spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling.”

The phrase “lowliness of mind” (ταπεινοφροσύνη) is key. It speaks not just to humility but to a practical application of it: considering others as *better* than oneself. This isn’t about false modesty, but about recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every individual in the eyes of God. In the bustling urban environment of Philippi, with its diverse population and social strata, such an attitude would have been revolutionary.

Practical Application: In our modern, often individualistic society, this call to prioritize others’ interests is more vital than ever. Consider: Who in your life needs your support, encouragement, or understanding? How can you actively demonstrate “lowliness of mind” in your daily interactions, especially at your workplace, during your commute or at home? Can you use website hosting to build an encouraging message for someone?

Philippians 2:5-11 – The Christ Hymn: Kenosis and Exaltation ✨

Original Greek: Τοῦτο γὰρ φρονεῖτε ἐν ὑμῖν ὃ καὶ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ, ὃς ἐν μορφῇ Θεοῦ ὑπάρχων οὐχ ἁρπαγμὸν ἡγήσατο τὸ εἶναι ἴσα Θεῷ, ἀλλ’ ἑαυτὸν ἐκένωσεν μορφὴν δούλου λαβών, ἐν ὁμοιώματι ἀνθρώπων γενόμενος· καὶ σχήματι εὑρεθεὶς ὡς ἄνθρωπος ἐταπείνωσεν ἑαυτὸν γενόμενος ὑπήκοος μέχρι θανάτου, θανάτου δὲ σταυροῦ. διὸ καὶ ὁ Θεὸς αὐτὸν ὑπερύψωσεν καὶ ἐχαρίσατο αὐτῷ τὸ ὄνομα τὸ ὑπὲρ πᾶν ὄνομα, ἵνα ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι Ἰησοῦ πᾶν γόνυ κάμψῃ ἐπουρανίων καὶ ἐπιγείων καὶ καταχθονίων, καὶ πᾶσα γλῶσσα ἐξομολογήσηται ὅτι Κύριος Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς εἰς δόξαν Θεοῦ Πατρός.

KJV: Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

NKJV: Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

This passage is the heart of Philippians 2. It presents the ultimate model of humility: Jesus Christ, who, though being in the very nature of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped or exploited. Instead, He *emptied Himself* (ἐκένωσεν ἑαυτὸν – *ekenosen heauton*) – this concept of *kenosis* is central to understanding Christ’s humility.

Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria addresses the *kenosis* in his commentary on John. He states: “οὐχ ὅτι ἀπέθετο τὴν θεότητα, ἀλλ’ ὅτι τὸ φῶς αὐτῆς ἔκρυψεν, ἵνα δυνηθῇ ἡ σὰρξ ἡμῶν ὁρᾶν.” (Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on John*, 4.2) – “Not that He laid aside His divinity, but that He hid its light, so that our flesh might be able to see.” He didn’t cease to be God, but veiled His divine glory to become accessible to humanity.

The passage then details Christ’s descent: He took on the form of a servant, was made in human likeness, and humbled Himself to the point of death – even the excruciating death of crucifixion. This act of self-sacrifice paved the way for His exaltation. God highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name above every name: Lord (Κύριος). This confession of Jesus Christ as Lord is not merely a verbal affirmation but a recognition of His supreme authority and sovereignty over all creation.

The Roman Empire, with its rigid social hierarchy and its deification of emperors, stood in stark contrast to the message of the Christ Hymn. Paul is implicitly challenging the prevailing values of the time, calling the Philippians to a radical reorientation of their priorities.

Practical Application: This passage challenges us to ask ourselves: What “rights” or privileges are we clinging to that prevent us from fully embracing a life of humble service? How can we emulate Christ’s *kenosis* in our own lives, sacrificing our comfort and convenience for the sake of others? What actions can we take to daily acknowledge Jesus Christ as Lord? Remembering that Christ’s Humility leads to exaltation allows us to serve without seeking personal benefit. Use website design to convey the importance of humility to others.

Philippians 2:12-18 – Working Out Your Salvation

Original Greek: Ὥστε, ἀγαπητοί μου, καθὼς πάντοτε ὑπηκούσατε, μὴ ὡς ἐν τῇ παρουσίᾳ μου μόνον ἀλλὰ νῦν πολλῷ μᾶλλον ἐν τῇ ἀπουσίᾳ μου, μετὰ φόβου καὶ τρόμου τὴν ἑαυτῶν σωτηρίαν κατεργάζεσθε· ὁ Θεὸς γάρ ἐστιν ὁ ἐνεργῶν ἐν ὑμῖν καὶ τὸ θέλειν καὶ τὸ ἐνεργεῖν ὑπὲρ τῆς εὐδοκίας. Πάντα ποιεῖτε χωρὶς γογγυσμῶν καὶ διαλογισμῶν, ἵνα γένησθε ἄμεμπτοι καὶ ἀκέραιοι, τέκνα Θεοῦ ἀμώμητα μέσον γενεᾶς σκολιᾶς καὶ διεστραμμένης, ἐν οἷς φαίνεσθε ὡς φωστῆρες ἐν κόσμῳ, λόγον ζωῆς ἐπέχοντες, εἰς καύχημα ἐμοὶ εἰς ἡμέραν Χριστοῦ, ὅτι οὐκ εἰς κενὸν ἔδραμον οὐδὲ εἰς κενὸν ἐκοπίασα. Ἀλλ’ εἰ καὶ σπένδομαι ἐπὶ τῇ θυσίᾳ καὶ λειτουργίᾳ τῆς πίστεως ὑμῶν, χαίρω καὶ συγχαίρω πᾶσιν ὑμῖν· τὸ δ’ αὐτὸ καὶ ὑμεῖς χαίρετε καὶ συγχαίρετέ μοι.

KJV: Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.

NKJV: Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain. Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. For the same reason you also be glad and rejoice with me.

Paul encourages the Philippians to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” This doesn’t imply earning salvation through works, but rather diligently pursuing a life of obedience and holiness, knowing that God is actively working *within* them. It’s a synergistic relationship: God empowers, and we respond in faith and obedience. The call to “do all things without complaining and disputing” emphasizes the importance of a positive and unified spirit in the community.

Patristic Insight: St. Macarius the Great, in his homilies, speaks of the inner struggle for salvation, noting that while grace is a gift, it requires our active participation. He says, “Ἡ χάρις τοῦ Θεοῦ δίδωσιν, ἀλλ’ ἡ σπουδὴ ἡμῶν ἀπαιτεῖται.” (Macarius the Great, *Homilies*, 27.8) – “The grace of God gives, but our diligence is required.”

The image of “shining as lights in the world” is a powerful one, particularly relevant in the darkness of pagan society. The Philippians were to be living examples of the transforming power of the Gospel. They should be beacons of light, not merely holding onto the word of life, but embodying it in their actions and attitudes.

Practical Application: How are you actively “working out” your salvation? What areas of your life require greater diligence in obedience and holiness? How can you contribute to a more positive and unified spirit in your church community? Reflect on where you might be complaining instead of acting. Remember that Christ’s Humility empowers us to serve joyfully, even in difficult circumstances.

Philippians 2:19-30 – Timothy and Epaphroditus: Examples of Servanthood

Original Greek: Ἐλπίζω δὲ ἐν Κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ Τιμόθεον ταχέως πέμψαι ὑμῖν, ἵνα κἀγὼ εὐψυχῶ γνῶς τὰ περὶ ὑμῶν. οὐδένα γὰρ ἔχω ἰσόψυχον, ὅστις γνησίως τὰ περὶ ὑμῶν μεριμνήσει· οἱ πάντες γὰρ τὰ ἑαυτῶν ζητοῦσιν, οὐ τὰ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ. τὴν δὲ δοκιμὴν αὐτοῦ γινώσκετε, ὅτι ὡς πατρὶ τέκνον σὺν ἐμοὶ ἐδούλευσεν εἰς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον. τοῦτον μὲν οὖν ἐλπίζω πέμψαι, ὡς ἂν ἀφίδω τὰ περὶ ἐμοῦ· πέποιθα δὲ ἐν Κυρίῳ ὅτι καὶ αὐτὸς ταχέως ἐλεύσομαι. Ἀναγκαῖον δὲ ἡγησάμην Ἐπαφρόδιτον τὸν ἀδελφὸν καὶ συνεργὸν καὶ συστρατιώτην μου, ὑμῶν δὲ ἀπόστολον καὶ λειτουργὸν τῆς χρείας μου πέμψαι πρὸς ὑμᾶς, ἐπειδὴ ἐπιποθῶν ἦν πάντας ὑμᾶς καὶ ἀδημονῶν, διότι ἠκούσατε ὅτι ἠσθένησεν. καὶ γὰρ ἠσθένησεν παραπλησίως θανάτῳ· ἀλλ’ ὁ Θεὸς ἠλέησεν αὐτόν, οὐ μόνον δὲ αὐτὸν ἀλλὰ καὶ ἐμέ, ἵνα μὴ λύπην ἐπὶ λύπην σχῶ. σπουδαιοτέρως οὖν ἔπεμψα αὐτόν, ἵνα ἰδόντες αὐτὸν πάλιν χαρῆτε, κἀγὼ ἀλυπότερος ὦ. προσδέχεσθε οὖν αὐτὸν ἐν Κυρίῳ μετὰ πάσης χαρᾶς, καὶ τοὺς τοιούτους ἐντίμους ἔχετε, ὅτι διὰ τὸ ἔργον τοῦ Χριστοῦ μέχρι θανάτου ἤγγισεν, παραβολευσάμενος τῇ ψυχῇ ἵνα ἀναπληρώσῃ τὸ ὑμῶν ὑστέρημα τῆς πρός με λειτουργίας.

KJV: But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state. For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s. But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel. Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me. But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly. Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick. For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful. Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation: Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply that which was lacking on your part toward me.

NKJV: But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, that I also may be encouraged when I know your state. For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus. But you know his proven character, that as a son with his father he served with me in the gospel. Therefore I hope to send him at once, as soon as I see how it goes with me. But I trust in the Lord that I myself shall also come shortly. Yet I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to my need; since he was longing for you all, and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick. For indeed he was sick almost to death; but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. Therefore I sent him the more eagerly, that when you see him again you may rejoice, and that I may be less sorrowful. Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in high esteem; because for the work of Christ he came close to death, not regarding his life, to supply what was lacking in your service toward me.

Paul holds up Timothy and Epaphroditus as exemplary models of Christian servanthood. Timothy is described as “like-minded” (ἰσόψυχον – *isopsychon*) – one who genuinely cares for the Philippians. Epaphroditus is lauded for his dedication and selflessness, even risking his life for the sake of the Gospel. The willingness of these individuals to prioritize the needs of others above their own serves as a powerful reminder of the practical implications of Christ’s Humility.

Practical Application: Who are the unsung heroes in your life or community? How can you show appreciation for those who selflessly serve others? Can you think of someone who is overworked and offer assistance? The passage calls us to “hold such men in high esteem,” recognizing and celebrating their dedication. How can we model the selfless service of Timothy and Epaphroditus in our own lives?

Subtopic Sections 💡

The Importance of Unity

Unity is not simply the absence of conflict, but a positive state of harmony and shared purpose. It stems from a deep love for one another and a commitment to putting the needs of the community above individual desires.

• ✨ Unity strengthens the Church’s witness to the world, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel.
• 🕊️ Unity fosters spiritual growth, as we learn to love and support one another in our journey towards Christ.
• 🤝 Unity protects the Church from internal divisions and external attacks, allowing it to stand firm in the face of adversity.
• 💡 Unity creates a welcoming and inclusive environment where all members feel valued and appreciated.
• 📖 Unity requires intentional effort, including humility, forgiveness, and a willingness to compromise.

The Significance of Humility

Humility is not weakness, but strength. It is the recognition of our dependence on God and the inherent worth of others. It allows us to approach life with openness, teachability, and a willingness to serve.

• ✨ Humility allows us to learn from others, recognizing that we do not have all the answers.
• 📖 Humility fosters empathy, enabling us to understand and share in the feelings of others.
• 🤝 Humility promotes reconciliation, allowing us to forgive and seek forgiveness for our mistakes.
• 🕊️ Humility protects us from pride and arrogance, which can lead to spiritual downfall.
• 💡 Humility aligns us with the example of Christ, who humbled Himself for our salvation.

FAQ ❓

Q: What does it mean to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling?”

A: This doesn’t mean we earn salvation through our efforts, but that we actively pursue a life of obedience and holiness, demonstrating our faith. “Fear and trembling” reflects a reverent awareness of God’s holiness and the seriousness of our commitment.

Q: How can I practice humility in a world that values self-promotion and achievement?

A: Start by intentionally focusing on the needs of others and celebrating their successes. Practice active listening, seek feedback from trusted friends, and be willing to admit your mistakes. Regularly reflect on Christ’s example of humility and ask God to help you emulate His spirit.

Q: Why is unity so important in the Church?

A: Unity reflects the very nature of God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – and strengthens the Church’s witness to the world. It creates a supportive and loving environment where believers can grow spiritually and serve one another effectively. When the Church functions as one, she represents Christ’s Humility as a force for good.

Conclusion

Philippians 2 is a timeless call to embrace the mind of Christ, characterized by humility, selfless service, and unwavering obedience. By reflecting on the *kenosis* of Christ, the faithfulness of Timothy and Epaphroditus, and the importance of unity, we can gain a deeper understanding of what it means to live a life that is pleasing to God. This chapter is not simply a theological treatise, but a practical guide for cultivating authentic Christian relationships and transforming the world around us. The challenge is clear: to embrace Christ’s Humility, to put others before ourselves, and to shine as lights in a dark world. May we all strive to embody the spirit of Christ in every aspect of our lives, to the glory of God the Father.

Tags

Christ, Humility, Philippians, Bible, Theology, Coptic Orthodox, Kenosis, Unity, Timothy, Epaphroditus

Meta Description

Explore Philippians 2 with a Coptic Orthodox lens. Learn about Christ’s Humility, Kenosis, and practical applications for unity and servanthood today.