Philippians 2:3

Authorized King James Version

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

Word-by-Word Analysis

μηδὲν

G3367

Let nothing

not even one (man, woman, thing)

κατὰ

G2596

be done through

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

ἐριθείαν

G2052

strife

properly, intrigue, i.e., (by implication) faction

ἢ

G2228

disjunctive, or; comparative, than

κενοδοξίαν

G2754

vainglory

empty glorying, i.e., self-conceit

ἀλλὰ

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

τῇ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ταπεινοφροσύνῃ

G5012

in lowliness of mind

humiliation of mind, i.e., modesty

ἀλλήλους

G240

each

one another

#10

ἡγούμενοι

G2233

esteem

to lead, i.e., command (with official authority); figuratively, to deem, i.e., consider

#11

ὑπερέχοντας

G5242

better than

to hold oneself above, i.e., (figuratively) to excel; participle (as adjective, or neuter as noun) superior, superiority

#12

ἑαυτῶν

G1438

themselves

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Philippians. The concept of glory reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Philippians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes glory in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding glory in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

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Topics

Peace