Philippians 2:5
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
G1063
γὰρ
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 10
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
φρονείσθω
Let
G5426
φρονείσθω
Let
Strong's:
G5426
Word #:
3 of 10
to exercise the mind, i.e., entertain or have a sentiment or opinion; by implication, to be (mentally) disposed (more or less earnestly in a certain d
ὃ
which
G3739
ὃ
which
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
6 of 10
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
καὶ
was also
G2532
καὶ
was also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
1 John 2:6He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.Matthew 11:29Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.1 Peter 2:21For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:1 Peter 4:1Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;Ephesians 5:2And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.Romans 15:5Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus:Acts 20:35I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.Romans 15:3For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me.Luke 22:27For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.Romans 14:15But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died.
Historical Context
Verses 6-11 likely circulated as an early Christian hymn or creed, possibly pre-dating Paul's letter. Its rhythmic structure, theological density, and unique vocabulary suggest liturgical origins. Paul applies corporate worship material to ethical instruction—a pattern throughout his letters. Christ's example wasn't abstract theology but sung, celebrated, embodied reality shaping community life. Early Christian worship was profoundly theological.
Questions for Reflection
- What does it mean for Christ's 'mind' (phronēma) to shape your thinking and affections?
- How does worship (singing theology) shape ethics more powerfully than mere instruction?
- In what specific situations this week can you adopt Christ's mindset from verses 6-11?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus (Τοῦτο φρονεῖτε ἐν ὑμῖν ὃ καὶ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ, Touto phroneite en hymin ho kai en Christō Iēsou)—Touto phroneite ("think this, have this mindset") summons the Christ-pattern as ethical paradigm. Phroneō ("to think, set one's mind on") isn't mere intellect but dispositional orientation—affections, values, priorities. En hymin ("in/among you") suggests both individual mindset and corporate culture.
The standard: ho kai en Christō Iēsou ("which also [was] in Christ Jesus")—Christ's mindset becomes the believer's template. What follows (vv. 6-11) is likely a pre-Pauline Christian hymn Paul quotes/adapts to ground his ethical appeal. This transitions from exhortation (2:1-4) to christological foundation (2:6-11) back to application (2:12-18). Ethics flow from Christology; the indicative (who Christ is) grounds the imperative (how we live). The Christ-hymn is theology's highest summit and ethics' deepest foundation.