Philippians 2 v 1 - 18

Before I type anything, I just want to say this is only what I personally got from the passage. If you have a point to make, feel free. Or if I'm missing the point or something. I did just "go with the flow" as you do... anyway, here goes:Here's the passage just for reference. This is NLT because that's what I was looking at, mainly.



Philippians 2Have the Attitude of Christ1 Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? 2 Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.3 Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.6 Though he was God,[a]he did not think of equality with Godas something to cling to.7 Instead, he gave up his divine privileges[b];he took the humble position of a slave[c]and was born as a human being.When he appeared in human form,[d]8 he humbled himself in obedience to Godand died a criminal’s death on a cross.9 Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honorand gave him the name above all other names,10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,in heaven and on earth and under the earth,11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,to the glory of God the Father.Shine Brightly for Christ12 Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. 13 For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.14 Do everything without complaining and arguing, 15 so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. 16 Hold firmly to the word of life; then, on the day of Christ’s return, I will be proud that I did not run the race in vain and that my work was not useless. 17 But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God,[e] just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy. 18 Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy.



Ok then. Here is what I wrote:Who? Paul is speaking, however you could say it is God's / Jesus' point of view.Where? Paul is writing as a slave of Jesus Christ. He was imprisoned for remaining loyal to God. His letters were for the churches, in various places. The believers of Philippi.When? After Jesus' ascending to Heaven, after being crucified and resurrected. Jesus told his disciples previously to tell people God's word and good news.What & why? Paul is writing a letter addressing the believers of Philippi. He is talking about having the attitude of Christ, by working together, loving one another, and agreeing wholeheartedly with one another. Also be humble, not selfish, and think of others better than yourself. Take an interest in people and put them first. Jesus was like this and practised it. God placed Him in a place of highest honour. Verse 12 stands out by saying there instructions are even more important now he is away. I think that's saying (to me, anyway) that although Jesus is no longer on the Earth (even though Paul is referring to himself), we should not stop living for Jesus - He is still real, He can still see us, He knows us inside out. Just because Jesus died for us, it is all for nothing if we turn away from God and live rebelliously. Paul (referring to himself once more) exclaims how he hopes the Philippians (us) will follow his advice, so he can "be proud that I did not run the race in vain..." (v16) Life is referred to as a race, too. :)I like verse 4, about taking an interest. Like saying do not remain ignorant to the world, either. There are other beliefs and it's not going to help by criticizing these when sharing Jesus. You must love people and bring barriers down so God's love can be shared to the full potential. One size fits all.I also like verse 13, where it says "For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him." God is in us, we are part of the body of Christ. And although we may feel unwilling, lazy, discouraged, you have the power!!Part of verse 15 says we will "shine like bright lights in a world full of crooked, perverse people." Yes, the world is full of people drowning in sin, but God's love (in you) is the brightest light in the universe. The sun, which He created, is merely an insignificant star compared to God's light. And like a moth is attracted to light, non-believers will be drawn to your God-given radiance and shining brightness, even in the darkest of times. The first thing God brought to the universe was light. And it's not dark in Heaven. Light is what allows us to see. Don't be blind - living in the dark - and being ignorant to God's purpose.It's easy to say negative things. But they rub off on others and make you feel discouraged and miserable. Verse 14 says, "do everthing without complaining and arguing." This is so we can be "innocent and blameless." Although we are, in God's eyes, perfect - He forgets all our repented sins - the world cannot forgive, and labels and stereotypes and formed on judgment. Lights covered in black paint do not bring light. They burn whoever goes near it. Another translation for verse 15 describes us as being able to "shine like stars in the universe." Each one is individual and yet so significant a part of the universe. Each one has its time and contiunues to shine brightly when it has long "died" - to us of the Earth.In v7 of the Amplified, it states that Jesus "stripped himself [of all privileges and rightful dignity]" which shows you must open your heart up to let God's love in, and out to others. Putting God first means sacrifice sometimes. But it's always worth it when the light shines brighter. V9 - God elevated Jesus. He was shining out. If we are shining, do not be afraid if God places you to stand up. Lights are not hidden. They are placed in the centre of lives, homes, community. For everyone. God's love is for everyone. Switch your light on, stand up tall, and share this amazing love with humility, compassion and wisdom. God places you in your everyday situations and provides divine opportunities. The brightest bit of a candle is the flame. Joined by the wick. The flame is a heart filled with Jesus, shining out to others. The wick could be compared to holding tightly to the word, the foundation (v16). Staying connected with God. Or the flame goes out. And you will impact no-one. Or you will slip up and give wrong interpretation and start a raging fire. The word is good news. Live it. Life is good. Jesus is good. God is love. Love is in you, shining out. Reaching out. "Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy." (v18). It's up to you. :) <3