Philippians 2:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Philippians 2:5
5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Chapter Context
Philippians 2 is a friendship epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, truth, prayer. Written during Paul's Roman imprisonment (c. 60-62 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The church in this Roman colony maintained partnership with Paul despite his imprisonment.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Philippians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Philippians 2:5
5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Analysis
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.
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.
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?
Cross-References
- References Christ: Romans 14:15, 15:3, Ephesians 5:2, 1 Peter 2:21, 4:1
- References Jesus: Acts 20:35, Romans 15:5
- Parallel theme: Matthew 11:29, Luke 22:27, 1 John 2:6