Philippians 2:3 (KJV)

What does Philippians 2:3 mean?

Philippians 2:3 urges believers not to act out of selfish motives or a desire for personal praise, but instead to approach others with genuine humility, valuing them above themselves. The verse calls for a mindset that puts aside rivalry and pride, encouraging mutual respect and lowliness of heart.

Paul is writing this letter to the Christians in Philippi, encouraging unity and harmony within their community. The verse is part of a larger section where Paul points to humility as the foundation for healthy relationships, preparing the way for his example of Christ’s own humility in the following verses.

The Greek behind Philippians 2:3

• "strife" (ἐριθεία, eritheia): This word often refers to selfish ambition or rivalry, not just open conflict. Paul is warning against actions motivated by a desire to get ahead or promote oneself at the expense of others.
• "vainglory" (κενοδοξία, kenodoxia): This term means empty pride or a hunger for recognition. Paul is cautioning against doing things just to be noticed or praised.
• "lowliness of mind" (ταπεινοφροσύνη, tapeinophrosynē): This phrase means a humble attitude or modesty. In Paul’s day, humility was not always seen as a virtue, so his call to value others above oneself would have stood out as a radical way to live.
• "esteem" (ἡγέομαι, hēgeomai): This verb means to consider or regard. Paul is not just talking about feelings but about a deliberate choice to treat others as more important.

Why Philippians 2:3 matters

• Philippians 2:3 clarifies that Christian humility is not self-deprecation but an intentional valuing of others, which was countercultural in the ancient world.
• The verse helps prevent misunderstandings that humility means thinking poorly of oneself; instead, it is about how one treats and regards others.
• This verse sets the stage for Paul’s later description of Christ’s humility, showing that the call to humility is grounded in the example of Jesus himself.