Philippians 2:3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or envy, but in humbleness regard others more important than yourselves.

Intro v.3

What is the biblical model for unity in the church local and abroad? Humility. We can unite pridefully over politicians, but the biblical model is deeper. We unite when we serve others. To be of one mind believers must stop setting their minds on their own ambitions and their own glory. As long as Christians have the attitude that what matters most is self-fulfillment and self-advancement, they will never experience the unity of one mind. Paul confronts the cause of disunity by exposing these divisive attitudes.

Greek words

The Greek word translated vain conceit or envy is a combination of two words: “empty glory.” This word exposes those who polish their façade but are devoid of the inner reality of spiritual vitality to match their “exaggerated self-evaluation.”

Illustration

Reminds me of my friend Darren’s tree in his backyard.

Verse 4

Humbleness in Greek culture was despised. “Many Greek authors viewed humility with contempt because it connoted lowliness, weakness, lack of freedom, servility, and subjection. However, Paul understood that the Hebrew Scriptures said the Opposite. “The haughty eyes of people shall be brought low, and the pride of everyone shall be humbled; and the LORD alone will be exalted in that day” (Isa 2:11). God humbles the proud, but gives grace to humble.

This is the cornerstone of unity. Unity and humility in the Lord walk hand in hand.

σκοποῦντες- means in english "to look out for" but has a deeper meaning than someone looking out on their front porch. The word is present, active, participle, singular, translating to actively looking for others' interests. Or “Pay Careful Attention” or “regard as your aim.” So here, believers are not only to look out for their interests but must also actively lookout for the interests of others.

ἑτέρων ἕκαστοι- These two words are joined together, combine to mean to look out for others as is referenced earlier in the verse. Paul is urging believers that we must look out for our own needs amid heavy persecution and actively look out for others' interests as well.

Illustration

Dr. Paul Rees said, “If you want a picture of success as heaven measures it, of greatness as God views it, don’t look for the blaring of the bands on Broadway; listen, rather, for the tinkle of water splashing into a basin, while God incarnate, in a humility that makes angels hold their breaths, sponges the grime from the feet of His undeserving disciples.”

A STORY

“Can I see my baby?” the happy new mother asked.

When the bundle was nestled in her arms and she moved the fold of cloth to look upon his tiny face, she gasped. The doctor turned quickly and looked out the tall hospital window. The baby had been born without ears. Time proved that the baby’s hearing was perfect. It was only his appearance that was marred. When he rushed home from school one day and flung himself into his mother’s arms, she sighed, knowing that his life was to be a succession of heartbreaks.

He blurted out the tragedy. “A boy, a big boy … called me a freak.”

He grew up, handsome for his misfortune. A favorite with his fellow students, he might have been class president, but for that. He developed a gift, a talent for literature and music. “But you might mingle with other young people,” his mother reproved him, but felt a kindness in her heart.

The boy’s father had a session with the family physician. Could nothing be done? “I believe I could graft on a pair of outer ears, if they could be procured,” the doctor decided.

Whereupon the search began for a person who would make such a sacrifice for a young man. Two years went by. Then, “You are going to the hospital, Son. Mother and I have someone who will donate the ears you need. But it’s a secret,” said the father.

The operation was a brilliant success, and a new person emerged. His talents blossomed into genius, and school and college became a series of triumphs. Later he married and entered the diplomatic service.

“But I must know!” He urged his father, “Who gave so much for me? I could never do enough for him.”

“I do not believe you could,” said the father, “but the agreement was that you are not to know … not yet.” The years kept their profound secret, but the day did come … one of the darkest days that a son must endure. He stood with his father over his mother’s casket.

Slowly, tenderly, the father stretched forth a hand and raised the thick, reddish-brown hair to reveal that the mother had no outer ears.

“Mother said she was glad she never let her hair be cut,” he whispered gently, “and nobody ever thought Mother less beautiful, did they?”

Application

Selfish ambition only leads to division. Seeking out own glory at the expense of others is, Like Darren’s tree, will only lead to our own destruction.

Instead, seek actively to find a small way to serve others. In the midst of our trials and tribulations are when we are tested the most. Think not only about our own problems but think about others often.

Group Question

In the Midst of the world upheaval, what can we do for our neighbor? What small thing can we do?