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Saint Paul's Epistle
To The
Philippians
See Explanatory


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Chapter Two



      Part II.
        Christ TheBeliever's Pattern,
        Rejoicing In Lowly Services.
        (Philippians 2:1-30).
          (1) Exhortation To Unity And Meekness.

Philippians 2:1-4; KJB

1 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Listen to this chapter
2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. (4ph)
4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. (5fu)



      (2) The Sevenfold Self-Humbling Of Christ

Philippians 2:5-8; KJB

5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
6 Who, being in the (1) form of God, thought it not (w) robbery ( 1a ) to be equal with God:
7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.



      (3) The Exaltation Of Jesus

Philippians 2:9-11; KJB

9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: (6fu)
10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.



      (4) The Outworking Of The Inworked Salvation

Philippians 2:12-16; KJB

12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own (d) salvation ( 2a ) with fear and trembling.
13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. (2ph)
14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the (i) world; ( 3a )
16 Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in (k) the day ( 4a ) of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.



      (5) The Apostolic Example

Philippians 2:17-30; KJB

17 Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.
18 For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.
19 But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.
20 For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state.
21 For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's.
22 But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel.
23 Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me.
24 But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly.
25 Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.
26 For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick.
27 For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.
28 I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful.
29 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation:
30 Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.

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Scofield Referenced Notes




 Key
    SRB = Scofield References
    JFB  = Jamieson, Fausset, Brown Commentary
    AC    = Adam Clarke Comentary






C. I. Scofield





2:6  Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

form of God

"Form," etc. (Greek - morphe [morfh/] , the form by which a person or thing strikes the vision, the external appearance)."--Thayer. CF John 17:15. "The glory which I had with Thee before the world was." Nothing in this passage teaches that the Eternal Word John 1:1 emptied Himself of either His divine nature, or His attributes, but only of the outward and visible manifestation of the Godhead. "He emptied, stripped Himself of the insignia of Majesty."--Lightfoot. "When occasion demanded He exercised His divine attributes."-- Moorehead. CF (See Scofield "John 1:1") . See Scofield "John 20:28"

robbery

a thing to be grasped after. See, Genesis 3:5-6.





2:12  Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.

salvation

(See Scofield "Romans 1:16") .





2:15  That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

world

kosmos = mankind. (See Scofield "Matthew 4:8") .





2:16  Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

the day

(See Scofield "1 Corinthians 1:8") .






1258_o; Philippians 2:1, If there be therefore any consolation in Christ

    In view of the fact


    (RV) "So if there be . . . "

    Christian Examples Given






1258_p; Philippians 2:1, if any fellowswhip of the Spirit




1258_q; Philippians 2:1, if any bowels and mercies




1258_r; Philippians 2:3, Let nothing be done through strife




1258_s; Philippians 2:3, Let nothing be done through strife

    Strife - Faction







1258_t; Philippians 2:3, nothing be done through strife or vainglory

    Ostentation

      Ostentation (pretense, pretentious or showy or vulgar display)






1258_u; Philippians 2:4, Look not every man on his own things




1258_v; Philippians 2:5, Let this be in you




1258_w; Philippians 2:6, thought it not robbery to be equal with God




1258_x; Philippians 2:7, But made himself of no reputation

    Or, emptied himself.







1258_y; Philippians 2:7, and was made in the likeness of men




1258_z; Philippians 2:8, as a man, he humbled himself




1258_aa; Philippians 2:9, Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him




1259_a; Philippians 2:9, at the name of Jesus every knee should bow

There Will Be No Exceptions

    Isaiah 45:23; Revelation 5:13.

    With few exceptions in the faith of the day, we have fallen pray to the P.C. crowd. It is not Politically Correct today to say, "Only those that believe in Jesus Christ will be saved." I would offer the opposite perspective: Would it have made sense for God to go through all the upheaval in the throne-room of heaven and compel his only begotten son to come to earth in the form of a man, suffer that cruel death on the cross, if Mohamed would have served the same purpose?

    Friend, it is salvation by the grace of God, because of the shed blood of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary that builds the only bridge to Heaven. And, while on the subject: salvation from what? If there is no literal Hell, then there needed be no Cross. If Hell is less than our worst imagination can ponder, why would such a horrendous death be necessary. God would have to be the worst crook-ster of all time to pull off such a facade. It is difficult. God's ways are past finding out. And, if the day comes when I shall be enabled to explain God to the endth degree, I shall become as smart as God and then, at that very moment in time God will cease to exist.

    And, this not by my word, but by God's Word.

    ~ b craig






1259_b; Philippians 2:11, that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord




1259_c; Philippians 2:12, in my absence,work out your own swalvation with fear




1259_d; Philippians 2:12, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling




1259_e; Philippians 2:13, For it is God which worketh in you




1259_f; Philippians 2:14, Do all things without murmurings and disputings




1259_g; Philippians 2:15, be blameless and harmless, the sons of God

    The Children of God







1259_h; Philippians 2:15, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation




1259_i; Philippians 2:15, ye shine as lights in the world




1259_j; Philippians 2:16, Holding forth the word of life




1259_k; Philippians 2:16, that I may rejoice in the day of Christ




1259_l; Philippians 2:17, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice

    Poured Out As A Drink-Offering.







1259_m; Philippians 2:19, But I trust in the Lord Jesus

    Hope!

      "My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less," "On Christ The Solid Rock I Stand."






1259_n; Philippians 2:19, to send Timotheus shortly unto you




1259_o; Philippians 2:20, For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care

    Or, so dear unto me.







1259_p; Philippians 2:22, he hath served with me in the gosepl




1259_q; Philippians 2:25, send to you Epaphroditus, my brother




1259_r; Philippians 2:29, Receive him therefore in the Lord




1212_2; Philippians 2:16, rejoice in the day of Christ; 1 Cor. 1:8, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord




1258_1; Philippians 2:6, Who, bing in the form of God, thought it not robbery

"The Glory which I had with Thee before the world was."

    "Form," etc., Greek word en morphe,

  • "the form by which a person or thing strikes the vision, the external appearance." Thayer.

    Nothing in this passage teaches that the Eternal Word (John 1:1) emptied Himself of either His divine nature, or His attributes, but only of the outward and viable manifestation of the Godhead.

  • "He emptied, stripped Himself of the insignia of Majesty." Lightfoot.
  • "When occasion demanded He exercised His divine attributes." Moorehead.

    Cf. John 1:1; See Note Page 1114_1
    Cf. John 20:28; See Note Page 1144_1






    1192_1; Philippians 2:12, salvation with fear and trembling














  • Copyright Statement
    These files are considered public domain and are a derivative of an electronic edition that is available in the Online Bible Software Library.

    Bibliography Information
    Scofield, C. I. "Scofield Reference Notes on Philippians 2". "Scofield Reference Notes (1917 Edition)". <http://www.studylight.org/com/srn/view.cgi?book=php&chapter=002>. 1917.  



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    - Jamieson, Fausset, Brown Commentary -





    - Jamieson, Fausset, Brown -

     Key
      SRB = Scofield References
      JFB  = Jamieson, Fausset, Brown Commentary
      AC    = Adam Clarke Comentary

    CHAPTER 2

          Philippians 2:1-30.

      • CONTINUED EXHORTATION:

      • TO UNITY: TO HUMILITY AFTER CHRIST'S EXAMPLE, WHOSE GLORY FOLLOWED HIS HUMILIATION:

      • TO EARNESTNESS IN SEEKING PERFECTION, THAT THEY MAY BE HIS JOY IN THE DAY OF CHRIST:

      • HIS JOYFUL READINESS TO BE OFFERED NOW BY DEATH, SO AS TO PROMOTE THEIR FAITH.

      • HIS INTENTION TO SEND TIMOTHY:

      • HIS SENDING EPAPHRODITUS MEANTIME.

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 1. The "therefore" implies that he is here expanding on the exhortation (Php 1:27), "In one Spirit, with one mind (soul)." He urges four influencing motives in this verse, to inculcate the four Christian duties corresponding respectively to them (Php 2:2). "That ye be like-minded, having the same love, of one accord, of one mind"; (1) "If there be (with you) any consolation in Christ," that is, any consolation of which Christ is the source, leading you to wish to console me in my afflictions borne for Christ's sake, ye owe it to me to grant my request "that ye be like-minded" [CHRYSOSTOM and ESTIUS]: (2) "If there be any comfort of (that is, flowing from) love," the adjunct of "consolation in Christ"; (3) "If any fellowship of (communion together as Christians, flowing from joint participation in) the Spirit" (2Co 13:14). As Pagans meant literally those who were of one village, and drank of one fountain, how much greater is the union which conjoins those who drink of the same Spirit! (1Co 12:4, 13) [GROTIUS]: (4) "If any bowels (tender emotions) and mercies (compassions)," the adjuncts of "fellowship of the Spirit." The opposites of the two pairs, into which the four fall, are reprobated, Php 2:3, 4.

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 2. Fulfil--that is, Make full. I have joy in you, complete it by that which is still wanting, namely, unity (Php 1:9).
          likeminded--literally, "that ye be of the same mind"; more general than the following "of one mind."
          having the same love--equally disposed to love and be loved.
          being of one accord--literally, "with united souls." This pairs with the following clause, thus, "With united souls, being of one mind"; as the former two also pair together, "That ye be likeminded, having the same love."

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 3. Let nothing be done--The italicized words are not in the Greek. Perhaps the ellipsis had better be supplied from the Greek (Php 2:2), "Thinking nothing in the way of strife" (or rather, "factious intrigue," "self-seeking," see on Php 1:16). It is the thought which characterizes the action as good or bad before God.
          lowliness of mind--The direct relation of this grace is to God alone; it is the sense of dependence of the creature on the Creator as such, and it places all created beings in this respect on a level. The man "lowly of mind" as to his spiritual life is independent of men, and free from all slavish feeling, while sensible of his continual dependence on God. Still it INDIRECTLY affects his behavior toward his fellow men; for, conscious of his entire dependence on God for all his abilities, even as they are dependent on God for theirs, he will not pride himself on his abilities, or exalt self in his conduct toward others (Eph 4:2; Col 3:12) [NEANDER].
          let each esteem--Translate as Greek, "esteeming each other superior to yourselves." Instead of fixing your eyes on those points in which you excel, fix them on those in which your neighbor excels you: this is true "humility."

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 4. The oldest manuscripts read, "Not looking each of you (plural, Greek) on his own things (that is, not having regard solely to them), but each of you on the things of others" also. Compare Php 2:21; also Paul's own example (Php 1:24).

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 5. The oldest manuscripts read, "Have this mind in you," &c. He does not put forward himself (see on Php 2:4, and Php 1:24) as an example, but Christ, THE ONE pre-eminently who sought not His own, but "humbled Himself" (Php 2:8), first in taking on Him our nature, secondly, in humbling Himself further in that nature (Ro 15:3).

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 6. Translate, "Who subsisting (or existing, namely, originally: the Greek is not the simple substantive verb, 'to be') in the form of God (the divine essence is not meant: but the external self-manifesting characteristics of God, the form shining forth from His glorious essence). The divine nature had infinite BEAUTY in itself, even without any creature contemplating that beauty: that beauty was 'the form of God'; as 'the form of a servant' (Php 2:7), which is in contrasted opposition to it, takes for granted the existence of His human nature, so 'the form of God' takes for granted His divine nature [BENGEL], Compare Joh 5:37; 17:5; Col 1:15, 'Who is the IMAGE of the invisible God' at a time before 'every creature,' 2Co 4:4, esteemed (the same Greek verb as in Php 2:3) His being on an equality with God no (act of) robbery" or self-arrogation; claiming to one's self what does not belong to him. ELLICOTT, WAHL, and others have translated, "A thing to be grasped at," which would require the Greek to be harpagma, whereas harpagmos means the act of seizing. So harpagmos means in the only other passage where it occurs, PLUTARCH [On the Education of Children, 120]. The same insuperable objection lies against ALFORD'S translation, "He regarded not as self-enrichment (that is, an opportunity for self-exaltation) His equality with God." His argument is that the antithesis (Php 2:7) requires it, "He used His equality with God as an opportunity, not for self-exaltation, but for self-abasement, or emptying Himself." But the antithesis is not between His being on an equality with God, and His emptying Himself; for He never emptied Himself of the fulness of His Godhead, or His "BEING on an equality with God"; but between His being "in the FORM (that is, the outward glorious self-manifestation) of God," and His "taking on Him the form of a servant," whereby He in a great measure emptied Himself of His precedent "form," or outward self-manifesting glory as God. Not "looking on His own things" (Php 2:4), He, though existing in the form of God, He esteemed it no robbery to be on an equality with God, yet made Himself of no reputation. "Being on an equality with God, is not identical with subsisting in the form of God"; the latter expresses the external characteristics, majesty, and beauty of the Deity, which "He emptied Himself of," to assume "the form of a servant"; the former, "HIS BEING," or NATURE, His already existing STATE OF EQUALITY with God, both the Father and the Son having the same ESSENCE. A glimpse of Him "in the form of God," previous to His incarnation, was given to Moses (Ex 24:10, 11), Aaron, &c.

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 7. made himself of no reputation, and . . . and--rather as the Greek, "emptied Himself, taking upon him the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men." The two latter clauses (there being no conjunctions, "and . . . and," in the Greek) expresses in what Christ's "emptying of Himself" consists, namely, in "taking the form of a servant" (see on Heb 10:5; compare Ex 21:5, 6, and Ps 40:6, proving that it was at the time when He assumed a body, He took "the form of a servant"), and in order to explain how He took "the form of a servant," there is added, by "being made in the likeness of men." His subjection to the law (Lu 2:21; Ga 4:4) and to His parents (Lu 2:51), His low state as a carpenter, and carpenter's reputed son (Mt 13:55; Mr 6:3), His betrayal for the price of a bond-servant (Ex 21:32), and slave-like death to relieve us from the slavery of sin and death, finally and chiefly, His servant-like dependence as man on God, while His divinity was not outwardly manifested (Isa 49:3, 7), are all marks of His "form as a servant." This proves: (1) He was in the form of a servant as soon as He was made man. (2) He was "in the form of God" before He was "in the form of a servant." (3) He did as really subsist in the divine nature, as in the form of a servant, or in the nature of man. For He was as much "in the form of God" as "in the form of a servant"; and was so in the form of God as "to be on an equality with God"; He therefore could have been none other than God; for God saith, "To whom will ye liken Me and make Me equal?" (Isa 46:5), [BISHOP PEARSON]. His emptying Himself presupposes His previous plenitude of Godhead (Joh 1:14; Col 1:19; 2:9). He remained full of this; yet He bore Himself as if He were empty.

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 8. being found in fashion as a man--being already, by His "emptying Himself," in the form of a servant, or likeness of man (Ro 8:3), "He humbled Himself (still further by) becoming obedient even unto death (not as English Version, 'He humbled Himself and became,'&c.; the Greek has no 'and,' and has the participle, not the verb), and that the death of the cross." "Fashion" expresses that He had the outward guise, speech, and look. In Php 2:7, in the Greek, the emphasis is on Himself (which stands before the Greek verb), "He emptied Himself," His divine self, viewed in respect to what He had heretofore been; in Php 2:8 the emphasis is on "humbled" (which stands before the Greek "Himself"); He not only "emptied Himself" of His previous "form of God," but submitted to positive HUMILIATION. He "became obedient," namely, to God, as His "servant" (Ro 5:19; Heb 5:8). Therefore "God" is said to "exalt" Him (Php 2:9), even as it was God to whom He became voluntarily "obedient." "Even unto death" expresses the climax of His obedience (Joh 10:18).

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 9. Wherefore--as the just consequence of His self-humiliation and obedience (Ps 8:5, 6; 110:1, 7; Mt 28:18; Lu 24:26; Joh 5:27; 10:17; Ro 14:9; Eph 1:20-22; Heb 2:9). An intimation, that if we would hereafter be exalted, we too must, after His example, now humble ourselves (Php 2:3, 5; Php 3:21; 1Pe 5:5, 6). Christ emptied Christ; God exalted Christ as man to equality with God [BENGEL].
          highly exalted--Greek, "super-eminently exalted" (Eph 4:10).
          given him--Greek, "bestowed on Him."
          a name--along with the corresponding reality, glory and majesty.
          which--Translate, namely, "that which is above every name." The name "JESUS" (Php 2:10), which is even now in glory His name of honor (Ac 9:5). "Above" not only men, but angels (Eph 1:21).

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 10. at the name--rather as Greek, "in the name."
          bow--rather, "bend," in token of worship. Referring to Isa 45:23; quoted also in Ro 14:11. To worship "in the name of Jesus," is to worship Jesus Himself (compare Php 2:11; Pr 18:10), or God in Christ (Joh 16:23; Eph 3:14). Compare "Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord (that is, whosoever shall call on the Lord in His revealed character) shall be saved" (Ro 10:13; 1Co 1:2); "all that call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord" (compare 2Ti 2:22); "call on the Lord"; Ac 7:59, "calling upon . . . and saying, Lord Jesus" (Ac 9:14, 21; 22:16).
          of things in heaven--angels. They worship Him not only as God, but as the ascended God-man, "Jesus" (Eph 1:21; Heb 1:6; 1Pe 3:22).
          in earth--men; among whom He tabernacled for a time.
          under the earth--the dead; among whom He was numbered once (Ro 14:9, 11; Eph 4:9, 10; Re 5:13). The demons and the lost may be included indirectly, as even they give homage, though one of fear, not love, to Jesus (Mr 3:11; Lu 8:31; Jas 2:19, see on Php 2:11).

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 11. every tongue--Compare "every knee" (Php 2:10). In every way He shall be acknowledged as Lord (no longer as "servant," Php 2:7). As none can fully do so "but by the Holy Ghost" (1Co 12:3), the spirits of good men who are dead, must be the class directly meant, Php 2:10, "under the earth."
          to the glory of God the Father--the grand end of Christ's mediatorial office and kingdom, which shall cease when this end shall have been fully realized (Joh 5:19-23, 30; 17:1, 4-7; 1Co 15:24-28).

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 12. Wherefore--Seeing that we have in Christ such a specimen of glory resulting from "obedience" (Php 2:8) and humiliation, see that ye also be "obedient," and so "your salvation" shall follow your obedience.
          as ye have . . . obeyed--"even as ye have been obedient," namely, to God, as Jesus was "obedient" unto God (see on Php 2:8).
          not as, &c.--"not as if" it were a matter to be done "in my presence only, but now (as things are) much more (with more earnestness) in my absence (because my help is withdrawn from you)" [ALFORD].
          work out--carry out to its full perfection. "Salvation" is "worked in" (Php 2:13; Eph 1:11) believers by the Spirit, who enables them through faith to be justified once for all; but it needs, as a progressive work, to be "worked out" by obedience, through the help of the same Spirit, unto perfection (2Pe 1:5-8). The sound Christian neither, like the formalist, rests in the means, without looking to the end, and to the Holy Spirit who alone can make the means effectual; nor, like the fanatic, hopes to attain the end without the means.
          your own--The emphasis is on this. Now that I am not present to further the work of your salvation, "work out your own salvation" yourselves the more carefully. Do not think this work cannot go on because I am absent; "for (Php 2:13) it is God that worketh in you," &c. In this case adopt a rule different from the former (Php 2:4), but resting on the same principle of "lowliness of mind" (Php 2:3), namely, "look each on his own things," instead of "disputings" with others (Php 2:14).
          salvation--which is in "Jesus" (Php 2:10), as His name (meaning God-Saviour) implies.
          with fear and trembling--the very feeling enjoined on "servants," as to what ought to accompany their "obedience" (Eph 6:5). So here: See that, as "servants" to God, after the example of Christ, ye be so "with the fear and trembling" which becomes servants; not slavish fear, but trembling anxiety not to fall short of the goal (1Co 9:26, 27; Heb 4:1, "Let us fear, lest a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any should come short of it"), resulting from a sense of our human insufficiency, and from the consciousness that all depends on the power of God, "who worketh both to will and to do" (Ro 11:20). "Paul, though joyous, writes seriously" [J. J. WOLF].

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 13. For--encouragement to work: "For it is God who worketh in you," always present with you, though I be absent. It is not said, "Work out your own salvation, though it is God," &c., but, "because it is God who," &c. The will, and the power to work, being first instalments of His grace, encourage us to make full proof of, and carry out to the end, the "salvation" which He has first "worked," and is still "working in" us, enabling us to "work it out." "Our will does nothing thereunto without grace; but grace is inactive without our will" [ST. BERNARD]. Man is, in different senses, entirely active, and entirely passive: God producing all, and we acting all. What He produced is our own acts. It is not that God does some, and we the rest. God does all, and we do all. God is the only proper author, we the only proper actors. Thus the same things in Scripture are represented as from God, and from us. God makes a new heart, and we are commanded to make us a new heart; not merely because we must use the means in order to the effect, but the effect itself is our act and our duty (Eze 11:19; 18:31; 36:26) [EDWARDS].
          worketh--rather as Greek, "worketh effectually." We cannot of ourselves embrace the Gospel of grace: "the will" (Ps 110:3; 2Co 3:5) comes solely of God's gift to whom He will (Joh 6:44, 65); so also the power "to do" (rather, "to work effectually," as the Greek is the same as that for "worketh in"), that is, effectual perseverance to the end, is wholly of God's gift (Php 1:6; Heb 13:21).
          of his good pleasure--rather as Greek, "FOR His good pleasure"; in order to carry out His sovereign gracious purpose towards you (Eph 1:5, 9).

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 14. murmurings--secret murmurings and complaints against your fellow men arising from selfishness: opposed to the example of Jesus just mentioned (compare the use of the word, Joh 7:12, 13; Ac 6:1; 1Pe 4:9; Jude 16).
          disputings--The Greek is translated "doubting" in 1Ti 2:8. But here referring to profitless "disputings" with our fellow men, in relation to whom we are called on to be "blameless and harmless" (Php 2:15): so the Greek is translated, Mr 9:33, 34. These disputings flow from "vain glory" reprobated (Php 2:3); and abounded among the Aristotelian philosophers in Macedon, where Philippi was.

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 15. blameless and harmless--without either the repute of mischief, or the inclination to do it [ALFORD].
          sons--rather as Greek, "the children of God" (Ro 8:14-16). Imitation of our heavenly Father is the instinctive guide to our duty as His children, more than any external law (Mt 5:44, 45, 48).
          without rebuke--"without (giving handle for) reproach." The whole verse tacitly refers by contrast to De 32:5, "Their spot . . . not . . . of His children . . . a perverse and crooked generation" (compare 1Pe 2:12).
          ye shine--literally, "appear" [TRENCH]. "Show yourselves" (compare Mt 5:14-16; Eph 5:8-13).
          as lights in the world--The Greek expresses "as luminaries in the world," as the sun and moon, "the lights," or "great lights," in the material world or in the firmament. The Septuagint uses the very same Greek word in the passage, Ge 1:14, 16; compare Note,, see on Re 21:11.

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 16. Holding forth--to them, and so applying it (the common meaning of the Greek; perhaps here including also the other meaning, "holding fast"). The image of light-bearers or luminaries is carried on from Php 2:15. As the heavenly luminaries' light is closely connected with the life of animals, so ye hold forth the light of Christ's "word" (received from me) which is the "life" of the Gentiles (Joh 1:4; 1Jo 1:1, 5-7). Christ is "the Light of the world" (Joh 8:12); believers are only "light-bearers" reflecting His light.
          that I may rejoice in--literally, "with a view to (your being) a subject of rejoicing to me against the day of Christ" (Php 4:1; 2Co 1:14; 1Th 2:19).
          that I have not run in vain--that it was not in vain that I labored for your spiritual good.

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 17. Yea, and if--rather as Greek, "Yea, if even"; implying that he regarded the contingency as not unlikely: He had assumed the possibility of his being found alive at Christ's coming (for in every age Christ designed Christians to stand in preparedness for His coming as at hand): he here puts a supposition which he regards as more likely, namely, his own death before Christ's coming.
          I be offered--rather as Greek, "I am poured out." "I am made a libation." Present, not future, as the danger is threatening him now. As in sacrifices libations of wine were "poured upon" the offerings, so he represents his Philippian converts, offered through faith (or else their faith itself), as the sacrifice, and his blood as the libation "poured upon" it (compare Ro 15:16; 2Ti 4:6).
          service--Greek, "priest's ministration"; carrying out the image of a sacrifice.
          I joy--for myself (Php 1:21, 23). His expectation of release from prison is much fainter, than in the Epistles to Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon, written somewhat earlier from Rome. The appointment of Tigellinus to be Prætorian Prefect was probably the cause of this change. See Introduction.
          rejoice with you all--ALFORD translates, "I congratulate you all," namely on the honor occurring to you by my blood being poured out on the sacrifice of your faith. If they rejoiced already (as English Version represents), what need of his urging them, "Do ye also joy."

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 18. "Do ye also rejoice" at this honor to you, "and congratulate me" on my blessed "gain" (Php 1:21).

          19. Php 2:22, "ye know the proof of him . . . that . . . he hath served with me," implies that Timothy had been long with Paul at Philippi; Accordingly, in the history (Ac 16:1-4; 17:10, 14), we find them setting out together from Derbe in Lycaonia, and together again at Berea in Macedonia, near the conclusion of Paul's missionary journey: an undesigned coincidence between the Epistle and history, a mark of genuineness [PALEY]. From Php 2:19-30, it appears Epaphroditus was to set out at once to allay the anxiety of the Philippians on his account, and at the same time bearing the Epistle; Timothy was to follow after the apostle's liberation was decided, when they could arrange their plans more definitely as to where Timothy should, on his return with tidings from Philippi, meet Paul, who was designing by a wider circuit, and slower progress, to reach that city. Paul's reason for sending Timothy so soon after having heard of the Philippians from Epaphroditus was that they were now suffering persecutions (Php 1:28-30); and besides, Epaphroditus' delay through sickness on his journey to Rome from Philippi, made the tidings he brought to be of less recent date than Paul desired. Paul himself also hoped to visit them shortly.
          But I trust--Yet my death is by no means certain; yea, "I hope (Greek) in the Lord (that is, by the Lord's help)"
          unto you--literally, "for you," that is, to your satisfaction, not merely motion, to you.
          I also--that not only you "may be of good courage" (so Greek) on hearing of me (Php 2:23), but "I also, when I know your state."

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 20. His reason for sending Timothy above all others: I have none so "like-minded," literally, "like-souled," with myself as is Timothy. Compare De 13:6, "Thy friend which is as thine own soul" (Ps 55:14). Paul's second self.
          naturally--Greek, "genuinely"; "with sincere solicitude." A case wherein the Spirit of God so changed man's nature, that to be natural was with him to be spiritual: the great point to be aimed at.

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 21. Translate as Greek, "They all" (namely, who are now with me, Php 1:14, 17; Php 4:21: such Demas, then with him, proved to be, Col 4:14; compare 2Ti 4:10; Phm 24).
          seek their own--opposed to Paul's precept (Php 2:4; 1Co 10:24, 33; 13:5). This is spoken, by comparison with Timothy; for Php 1:16, 17 implies that some of those with Paul at Rome were genuine Christians, though not so self-sacrificing as Timothy. Few come to the help of the Lord's cause, where ease, fame, and gain have to be sacrificed. Most help only when Christ's gain is compatible with their own (Jud 5:17, 23).

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 22. Rare praise (Ne 7:2).
          as a son with the father--Translate, "as a child (serveth) a father."
          served with me--When we might expect the sentence to run thus. "As a child serveth a father, so he served me"; he changes it to "served with me" in modesty; as Christians are not servants TO one another," but servants of God WITH one another (compare Php 3:17).
          in the gospel--Greek, "unto," or "for the Gospel."

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 23. so soon as I shall see--that is, so soon as I shall have known for certain.

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 24. also myself--as well as Timothy.

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 25. I supposed--"I thought it necessary."
          to send--It was properly a sending Epaphroditus back (Php 4:18). But as he had come intending to stay some time with Paul, the latter uses the word "send" (compare Php 2:30).
          fellow soldier--in the "good fight" of faith (Php 1:27, 30; 2Ti 2:3; 4:7).
          your messenger--literally, "apostle." The "apostles" or "messengers of the churches" (Ro 16:7; 2Co 8:23), were distinct from the "apostles" specially commissioned by Christ, as the Twelve and Paul.
          ministered to my wants--by conveying the contributions from Philippi. The Greek "leitourgon," literally, implies ministering in the ministerial office. Probably Epaphroditus was a presbyter or else a deacon.

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 26. For--reason for thinking it "necessary to send" "Epaphroditus. Translate as Greek, "Inasmuch as he was longing after you all."
          full of heaviness--The Greek expresses the being worn out and overpowered with heavy grief.
          because that ye had heard that he had been sick--rather, "that he was sick." He felt how exceedingly saddened you would be in hearing it; and he now is hastening to relieve your minds of the anxiety.

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 27. Epaphroditus' sickness proves that the apostles had not ordinarily the permanent gift of miracles, any more than of inspiration: both were vouchsafed to them only for each particular occasion, as the Spirit thought fit.
          lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow--namely, the sorrow of losing him by death, in addition to the sorrow of my imprisonment. Here only occurs anything of a sorrowful tone in this Epistle, which generally is most joyous.

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 29. Receive him--There seems to be something behind respecting him. If extreme affection had been the sole ground of his "heaviness," no such exhortation would have been needed [ALFORD].
          in reputation--"in honor."

         

      JFB Top  AC
    Verse 30. for the work of Christ--namely, the bringing of a supply to me, the minister of Christ. He was probably in a delicate state of health in setting out from Philippi; but at all hazards he undertook this service of Christian love, which cost him a serious sickness.
          not regarding his life--Most of the oldest manuscripts read, "hazarding," &c.
          to supply your lack of service--Not that Paul would imply, they lacked the will: what they "lacked" was the "opportunity" by which to send their accustomed bounty (Php 4:10). "That which ye would have done if you could (but which you could not through absence), he did for you; therefore receive him with all joy" [ALFORD].





      Copyright Statement
      These files are a derivative of an electronic edition prepared from text scanned by Woodside Bible Fellowship.

      This expanded edition of the Jameison-Faussett-Brown Commentary is in the public domain and may be freely used and distributed.

      Bibliography Information
      Jamieson, Robert, D.D. "Commentary on Philippians 2". "Commentary Critical and Explanatory
      on the Whole Bible". <http://www.studylight.org/com/jfb/view.cgi?book=php&chapter=002>. 1871.  



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      Clarke's Commentary




      PHILIPPIANS 2

      The King James 
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      - CLARKE'S COMMENTARY -

       Key
        SRB = Scofield References
        JFB  = Jamieson, Fausset, Brown Commentary
        AC    = Adam Clarke Comentary

      Chapter 2

      • The apostle beseeches them by various considerations, to live in unity and in the spirit of the Gospel, loving each other; and each to prefer his brother to himself, 1-4.

      • He exhorts them to be like-minded with Christ, who, though in the form of God, and equal with God, made himself of no reputation, and humbled himself to the death of the cross for the salvation of man; in consequence of which he was highly exalted, and had a name above every name; to whose authority every knee should bow, and whose glory every tongue should acknowledge, 5-11.

      • They are exhorted to work out their own salvation through his power who works in them, that they may be blameless, and that the apostle's labour may not be in vain, 12-16.

      • He expresses his readiness to offer his life for the Gospel, 17,18.

      • Intends to send Timothy to them, of whom he gives a very high character; yet hopes to see them himself shortly, 19-24.

      • In the meantime sends Epaphroditus, who had been near death, and whom he begs them to receive with especial tenderness, 25-30.


      Notes on Chapter 2

        AC Top  JFB
      Verse 1. If there be therefore any consolation
      The ει, if, does not express any doubt here, but on the contrary is to be considered as a strong affirmation; as there is consolation in Christ, as there is comfort of love,

      The word παρακλησις, translated here consolation, is in other places rendered exhortation, and is by several critics understood so here; as if he had said: If exhorting you in the name of Christ have any influence with you, give the force of these expressions; they contain a torrent of most affecting eloquence, the apostle pouring out his whole heart to a people whom with all his heart he loved, and who were worthy of the love even of an apostle.

      If any comfort of love
      If the followers of Christ, by giving proofs of their ardent love to each other in cases of distress, alleviate the sufferings of the persecuted;

      If any fellowship of the Spirit
      If there be an intimate relation established among all Christians, by their being made mutual partakers of the holy Ghost;

      If any bowels and mercies
      If you, as persons whom I have brought to God at the hazard of my life, feel sympathetic tenderness for me now, in a farther state of suffering;

        AC Top  JFB
      Verse 2. Fulfil ye my joy
      Ye ought to complete my joy, who have suffered so much to bring you into the possession of these blessings, by being like-minded with myself, having the same love to God, his cause, and me, as I have to him, his cause, and you.

      Being of one accord
      Being perfectly agreed in labouring to promote the honour of your Master; and of one mind, being constantly intent upon this great subject; keeping your eye fixed upon it in all you say, do, or intend.

        AC Top  JFB
      Verse 3. Let nothing be done through strife
      Never be opposed to each other; never act from separate interests; ye are all brethren, and of one body; therefore let every member feel and labour for the welfare of the whole. And, in the exercise of your different functions, and in the use of your various gifts, do nothing so as to promote your own reputation, separately considered from the comfort, honour, and advantage of all.

      But in lowliness of mind
      Have always an humbling view of yourselves, and this will lead you to prefer others to yourselves; for, as you know your own secret defects, charity will lead you to suppose that your brethren are more holy, and more devoted to God than you are; and they will think the same of you, their secret defects also being known only to themselves.

        AC Top  JFB
      Verse 4. Look not every man on his own things
      Do nothing through self-interest in the things of God; nor arrogate to yourselves gifts, graces, and fruits, which belong to others; ye are all called to promote God's glory and the salvation of men. Labour for this, and every one shall receive the honour that comes from God; and let each rejoice to see another, whom God may be pleased to use in a special way, acquiring much reputation by the successful application of his talents to the great work.

        AC Top  JFB
      Verse 5. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus
      Christ laboured to promote no separate interest; as man he studied to promote the glory of God, and the welfare and salvation of the human race. See then that ye have the same disposition that was in Jesus: he was ever humble, loving, patient, and laborious; his meat and drink was to do the will of his Father, and to finish his work.

        AC Top  JFB
      Verse 6. Who, being in the form of God
      This verse has been the subject of much criticism, and some controversy. Dr. Whitby has, perhaps, on the whole, spoken best on this point; but his arguments are too diffuse to be admitted here. Dr. Macknight has abridged the words of Dr. Whitby, and properly observes that, "As the apostle is speaking of what Christ was before he took the form of a servant, the form of God, of which he divested himself when he became man, cannot be any thing which he possessed during his incarnation or in his divested state; consequently neither the opinion of Erasmus, that the form of God consisted in those sparks of divinity by which Christ, during his incarnation, manifested his Godhead, nor the opinion of the Socinians, that it consisted in the power of working miracles, is well founded; for Christ did not divest himself either of one or the other, but possessed both all the time of his public ministry. In like manner, the opinion of those who, by the form of God understand the Divine nature and the government of the world, cannot be admitted; since Christ, when he became man, could not divest himself of the nature of God; and with respect to the government of the world, we are led, by what the apostle tells, Hebrews 1:3, to believe that he did not part with even that; but, in his divested state, still continued to uphold all things by the word of his power. By the form of God we are rather to understand that visible, glorious light in which the Deity is said to dwell, 1 Timothy 6:16, and by which he manifested himself to the patriarchs of old, Deuteronomy 5:22,24; which was commonly accompanied with a numerous retinue of angels, Psalms 68:17, and which in Scripture is called The Similitude, Numbers 12:8; The Face, Psalms 31:16: The Presence, Exodus 33:15; and The Shape of God, John 5:37. This interpretation is supported by the term μορφη, form, here used, which signifies a person's external shape or appearance, and not his nature or essence. Thus we are told, Mark 16:12, that Jesus appeared to his disciples in another μορφη, shape, or form. And, Matthew 17:2, μετεμορφωθη, he was transfigured before them-his outward appearance or form was changed. Farther this interpretation agrees with the fact: the form of God, that is, his visible glory, and the attendance of angels, as above described, the Son of God enjoyed with his Father before the world was, John 17:5; and on that as on other accounts he is the brightness of the Father's glory, Hebrews 1:3. Of this he divested himself when he became flesh; but, having resumed it after his ascension, he will come with it in the human nature to judge the world; he told his disciples, Matthew 16:27: The Son of man will come in the glory of his Father, with his angels, the meaning of μορθηδουλου, Philippians 2:7; which evidently denotes the appearance and behaviour of a servant or bondman, and not the essence of such a person." See Whitby and Macknight.

      Thought it not robbery to be equal with God
      If we take these words as they stand here, their meaning is, that, as he was from the beginning in the same infinite glory with the Father, to appear in time-during his humiliation, as God and equal with the Father, was no encroachment on the Divine prerogative; for, as he had an equality of nature, he had an equality of rights.

      But the word αρπαγμον, which we translate robbery, has been supposed to imply a thing eagerly to be seized, coveted, or desired; and on this interpretation the passage has been translated: Who, being in the form of God, did not think it a matter to be earnestly desired to appear equal to God; but made himself of no reputation, does not affect the eternal Deity of our Lord. Though he was from eternity in the form of God-possessed of the same glory, yet he thought it right to veil this glory, and not to appear with it among the children of men; and therefore he was made in the likeness of men, and took upon him the form or appearance of a servant: and, had he retained the appearance of this ineffable glory, it would, in many respects, have prevented him from accomplishing the work which God gave him to do; and his humiliation, as necessary to the salvation of men, could not have been complete. On this account I prefer this sense of the word αρπαγμον before that given in our text, which does not agree so well with the other expressions in the context. In this sense the word is used by Heliodorus, in his AEthiopics, lib. vii. cap. 19, Whitby has produced, and on which he has given a considerable paraphrase. The reader who wishes to examine this subject more particularly, may have recourse to Heliodorus as above, or to the notes of Dr. Whitby on the passage.

        AC Top  JFB
      Verse 7. But made himself of no reputation
      εαυτονεκενωσε. He emptied himself-did not appear in his glory, for he assumed the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of man. And his being made in the likeness of man, and assuming the form of a servant, was a proof that he had emptied himself-laid aside the effulgence of his glory.

        AC Top  JFB
      Verse 8. And being found in fashion as a man
      καισχηματι ευρεθειςωςανθρωπος. This clause should be joined to the preceding, and thus translated: Being made in the likeness of man, and was found in fashion as a man.

      He humbled himself
      Laid himself as low as possible: 1. In emptying himself-laying aside the effulgence of his glory. 2. In being incarnate-taking upon him the human form. 3. In becoming a servant-assuming the lowest innocent character, that of being the servant of all. 4. In condescending to die, to which he was not naturally liable, as having never sinned, and therefore had a right in his human nature to immortality, without passing under the empire of death. 5. In condescending, not only to death, but to the lowest and most ignominious kind of death, the death of the cross; the punishment of the meanest of slaves and worst of felons. What must sin have been in the sight of God, when it required such abasement in Jesus Christ to make an atonement for it, and undo its influence and malignity!

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      Verse 9. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him
      If by his humiliation he has merited pardon and final salvation for the whole world, is it to be wondered that the human body, in which this fulness of the Godhead dwelt, and in which the punishment due to our sins was borne upon the tree, should be exalted above all human and all created beings? And this is the fact; for he hath given him a name, τοονομα, the name, which is above every name: το is prefixed to ονομα here by ABC, 17, Origen, Dionysius Alexandrinus, Eusebius, Cyril, and Procopius. This makes it much more emphatic. According to Ephesians 1:20,21, the man Christ Jesus is exalted to the right hand of God, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come. From which it appears that no creature of God is so far exalted and so glorious as the man Christ Jesus, human nature being in him dignified infinitely beyond the angelic nature; and that this nature has an authority and pre-eminence which no being, either in heaven or earth, enjoys. In a word, as man was in the beginning at the head of all the creatures of God, Jesus Christ, by assuming human nature, suffering and dying in it, has raised it to its pristine state. And this is probably what is here meant by this high exaltation of Christ, and giving him a name which is above every name. But if we refer to any particular epithet, then the name JESUS or Saviour must be that which is intended; as no being either in heaven or earth can possess this name as he who is the Redeemer of the world does, for he is the only Saviour; none has or could redeem us to God but he; and throughout eternity he will ever appear as the sole Saviour of the human race. Hence, before his birth, Gabriel stated that his name should be called JESUS; giving for reason, he shall SAVE his people from their sins. The qualifications of the Saviour of the world were so extraordinary, the redeeming acts so stupendous, and the result of all so glorious both to God and man, that it is impossible to conceive a higher name or title than that of JESUS, or Saviour of the world.

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      Verse 10. That at the name of Jesus every knee should how
      That all human beings should consider themselves redeemed unto God by his blood, and look for an application of this redemption price; and that all who are saved from their sin should acknowledge him the author of their salvation. In a word, that πανεπουρανιων, all the spirits of just men made perfect, now in a state of blessedness; καιεπιγειων, all human beings still in their state of probation on earth; καικαταχθονιων, and all that are in the shades below, who have, through their own fault, died without having received his salvation; should acknowledge him.

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      Verse 11. And that every tongue should confess
      That all those before mentioned should acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, or absolute governor, and thus glorify God the Father, who has exalted this human nature to this state of ineffable glory, in virtue of its passion, death, resurrection, and the atonement which it has made, by which so many attributes of the Divine nature have become illustrated, the Divine law magnified and made honourable, and an eternal glory provided for man.

      Others by things in heaven understand the holy angels; by things on earth, human beings generally; and by things under the earth, fallen spirits of every description. Perhaps the three expressions are designed to comprehend all beings of all kinds, all creatures; as it is usual with the Hebrews, and indeed with all ancient nations, to express, by things in heaven, things on earth, and things under the earth, all beings of all kinds; universal nature. See similar forms of speech, Exodus 20:4; Deuteronomy 4:17,18; ; Psalms 96:11; and ; Ezekiel 38:20. But intelligent beings seem to be those which are chiefly intended by the words of the apostle; for it appears that nothing less than absolute rule over angels, men, and devils, can be designed in these extraordinary words, and by confessing him to be Lord we may understand that worship which all intelligent creatures are called to pay to God manifested in the flesh; for all should honour the Son even as they honour the Father. And the worship thus offered is to the glory of God; so that far from being idolatrous, as some have rashly asserted, it is to the honour of the Divine Being. We may add, that the tongue which does not confess thus, is a tongue that dishonours the Almighty.

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      Verse 12. As ye have always obeyed
      Continue to act on the same principles and from the same motives; having the same disposition which was in Christ; labouring so as to promote his glory.

      Work out your own salvation
      Go on, walking by the same rule, and minding the same thing, till your salvation be completed: till, filled with love to God and man, ye walk unblamably in all his testimonies, having your fruit unto holiness, and your end everlasting life.

      With fear and trembling
      Considering the difficulty of the work, and the danger of miscarriage. If you do not watch, pray and continually depend on God, your enemies will surprise you, and your light and life will become extinct; and then consider what an awful account you must give to Him whose Spirit ye have grieved, and of whose glory ye have come short.

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      Verse 13. For it is God which worketh in you
      Every holy purpose, pious resolution, good word, and good work, must come from him; ye must be workers together with him, that ye receive not his grace in vain; because he worketh in you, therefore work with him, and work out your own salvation.

      To will and to do
      τοθελεινκαιτοενεργειν. The power to will and the power to act must necessarily come from God, who is the author both of the soul and body, and of all their powers and energies, but the act of volition and the act of working come from the man. God gives power to will, man wills through that power; God gives power to act, and man acts through that power. Without the power to will, man can will nothing; without the power to work, man can do nothing. God neither wills for man, nor works in man's stead, but he furnishes him with power to do both; he is therefore accountable to God for these powers.

      Because God works in them the power to will and the power to do, therefore the apostle exhorts them to work out their own salvation; most manifestly showing that the use of the powers of volition and action belongs to themselves. They cannot do God's work, they cannot produce in themselves a power to will and to do; and God will not do their work, he will not work out their salvation with fear and trembling.

      Though men have grievously puzzled themselves with questions relative to the will and power of the human being; yet no case can be plainer than that which the apostle lays down here: the power to will and do comes from GOD; the use of that power belongs to man. He that has not got this power can neither will nor work; he that has this power can do both. But it does not necessarily follow that he who has these powers will use them; the possession of the powers does not necessarily imply the use of those powers, because a man might have them, and not use or abuse them; therefore the apostle exhorts: Work out your own salvation.

      This is a general exhortation; it may be applied to all men, for to all it is applicable, there not being a rational being on the face of the earth, who has not from God both power to will and act in the things which concern his salvation. Hence the accountableness of man.

      Of his good pleasure.
      Every good is freely given of God; no man deserves any thing from him; and as it pleaseth him, so he deals out to men those measures of mental and corporeal energy which he sees to be necessary; giving to some more, to others less, but to all what is sufficient for their salvation.

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      Verse 14. Do all things without murmurings
      γογγυσμωνκαι διαλογισμων. Without grumblings and altercations. Be patient in, and contented with, your work; and see that ye fall not out by the way.

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      Verse 15. That ye may be blameless
      In yourselves, and harmless to others.

      The sons of God
      Showing by your holy conduct that ye are partakers of the Divine nature.

      Without rebuke
      Persons against whom no charge of transgression can justly be laid.

      A crooked and perverse
      Probably referring to the Jews, who were the chief opponents and the most virulent enemies which the Christian Church had.

      Among whom ye shine
      Be like the sun and moon; bless even the perverse and disobedient by your light and splendour. Let your light shine before men; some will walk in that light, and by its shining God will be glorified. It is evident that the apostle, by φωστηρεςενκοσμω, lights in the world, refers to the sun and moon particularly, and perhaps to the heavenly bodies in general.

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      Verse 16. Holding forth the word of life
      An allusion, some think, to those towers which were built at the entrance of harbours, on which fires were kept during the night to direct ships into the port. Genuine Christians, by their holy lives and conversation, are the means of directing others, not only how to escape those dangers to which they are exposed on the tempestuous ocean of human life, but also of leading them into the haven of eternal safety and rest.

      That I have not run in vain
      This appears to be a part of the same metaphor; and alludes to the case of a weather-beaten mariner who has been long tossed on a tempestuous sea, in hazy weather and dark nights, who has been obliged to run on different tacks, and labour intensely to keep his ship from foundering, but is at last, by the assistance of the luminous fire on the top of the tower, directed safely into port. Live so to glorify God and do good to men, that it shall appear that I have not run and laboured in vain for your salvation.

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      Verse 17. Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service
      The metaphor appears to be still carried on. As it was customary for the weather-beaten mariner, when he had gained his port, to offer a sacrifice, θυσια, to God, of some particular animal which he had vowed while in his state of danger, and this was considered to be a religious service, λειτουργια. the apostle, pursuing the idea, states himself to be willing to become the libation, (for so much the word σπενδομαι imports,) that was to be poured upon the sacrifice. Parkhurst observes that the apostle compares the faith of the Philippians to the sacrificial victim, and his own blood shed in martyrdom to the libation, i.e. the wine poured out on occasion of the sacrifice. Raphelius observes that Arrian uses the phrase σπενδεινεπιτηθυσια for pouring out the libation after the sacrifice. The apostle had guided them safely into port; their faith in the atoning death of Christ was their sacrifice; and he was willing that his blood in martyrdom should be poured out as a libation on that sacrificial offering.

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      Verse 18. For the same cause also do ye joy
      Should I be thus offered, as I shall rejoice in it, do ye also rejoice that I am counted worthy of this high honour.

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      Verse 19. But I trust in the Lord Jesus
      He is governor and disposer of all events, being above all principality and power; and I humbly confide in his power and goodness that I shall be a little longer spared to visit you again, Philippians 2:24, and to be able to send Timothy shortly to you. When I know your state.
      By the correct information which I shall receive from Timothy.

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      Verse 20. For I have no man like-minded
      None of all my fellow helpers in the Gospel have the same zeal and affectionate concern for your prosperity in every respect as he has. He is ισοψυχος. of the same soul; a man after my own heart.

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      Verse 21. For all seek their own
      This must relate to the persons who preached Christ even of envy and strife, Philippians 1:15; these must be very careless whether souls were saved or not by such preaching; and even those who preached the Gospel out of good will might not be fit for such an embassy as this, which required many sacrifices, and consequently much love and zeal to be able to make them.

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      Verse 22. Ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me
      The Philippians had full proof of the affectionate attachment of Timothy to Paul, for he had laboured with him there, as we learn from Acts 16:1-3;; 17:14; and we find from what is said here that Timothy was not a servant to the apostle, but that he had served with him. They both laboured together in the word and doctrine; for apostles and Christian bishops, in those times, laboured as hard as their deacons. There were no sinecures; every one was a labourer, every labourer had his work, and every workman had his wages.

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      Verse 23. How it will go with me.
      The apostle was now in captivity; his trial appears to have been approaching, and of its issue he was doubtful; though he seems to have had a general persuasion that he should be spared, see Philippians 2:19,24.

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      Verse 25. Epaphroditus, my brother, character of this minister of Christ; he was, 1. A brother-one of the Christian family; a thorough convert to God, without which he could not have been a preacher of the Gospel. 2. He was a companion in labour; he laboured, and laboured in union with the apostle in this great work. 3. He was a fellow soldier; the work was a work of difficulty and danger, they were obliged to maintain a continual warfare, fighting against the world, the devil, and the flesh. 4. He was their apostle-a man whom God had honoured with apostolical gifts, apostolical graces, and apostolical fruits; and, 5. He was an affectionate friend to the apostle; knew his soul in adversity, acknowledged him in prison, and contributed to his comfort and support.

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      Verse 26. Ye had heard that he had been sick.
      "In this passage," says Dr. Paley, "no intimation is given that the recovery of Epaphroditus was miraculous, it is plainly spoken of as a natural event. This instance, together with that in the Second Epistle to Timothy, Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick, affords a proof that the power of performing cures, and, by parity of reason, of working other miracles, was a power which only visited the apostles occasionally, and did not at all depend upon their own will. Paul undoubtedly would have healed Epaphroditus if he could; nor would he have left Trophimus at Miletum sick, had the power of working cures awaited his disposal. Had this epistle been a forgery, forgery on this occasion would not have spared a miracle; much less would it have introduced St. Paul professing the utmost anxiety for the safety of his friend, yet acknowledging himself unable to help him, which he does almost expressly in the case of Trophimus, Him have I left sick; and virtually in the passage before us, in which he felicitates himself on the recovery of Epaphroditus in terms which almost exclude the supposition of any supernatural means being used to effect it. This is a reverse which nothing but truth would have imposed." Horae Paulinae, page 234.

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      Verse 27. Lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.
      The sorrows of his death, added to the sorrow he endured on account of his sickness; or he may refer to his own state of affliction, being imprisoned and maltreated.

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      Verse 28. The more carefully
      σπουδαιοτερως. With the more haste or despatch; because, having suffered so much on account of his apprehended death, they could not be too soon comforted by seeing him alive and restored.

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      Verse 29. Receive him therefore in the Lord
      For the Lord's sake receive him, and as the Lord's servant; and hold such zealous, disinterested, and holy preachers in reputation-honour those whom ye perceive God hath honoured.

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      Verse 30. For the work of Christ
      Preaching the Gospel, and ministering to the distressed.

      He was nigh unto death
      Having laboured far beyond his strength.

      Not regarding his life
      Instead of παραβουλευσαμενοςτηψυχη, not regarding his life, παραβολευσαμενος, risking his life, is the reading of ABDEFG, and is received by Griesbach into the text. His frequent and intense preaching, and labouring to supply the apostle's wants, appear to have brought him nigh to the gates of death.

      THE humiliation and exaltation of Christ are subjects which we cannot contemplate too frequently, and in which we cannot be too deeply instructed.

      1. God destroys opposites by opposites: through pride and self-confidence man fell, and it required the humiliation of Christ to destroy that pride and self-confidence, and to raise him from his fall. There must be an indescribable malignity in sin, when it required the deepest abasement of the highest Being to remove and destroy it. The humiliation and passion of Christ were not accidental, they were absolutely necessary; and had they not been necessary, they had not taken place. Sinner, behold what it cost the Son of God to save thee! And wilt thou, after considering this, imagine that sin is a small thing? Without the humiliation and sacrifice of Christ, even thy soul could not be saved. Slight not, therefore, the mercies of thy God, by underrating the guilt of thy transgressions and the malignity of thy sin!

      2. As we cannot contemplate the humiliation and death of Christ without considering it a sufficient sacrifice, oblation, and atonement for sin, and for the sin of the whole world; so we cannot contemplate his unlimited power and glory, in his state of exaltation, without being convinced that he is able to save them to the uttermost that come unto God through him. What can withstand the merit of his blood? What can resist the energy of his omnipotence? Can the power of sin?-its infection? -its malignity? No! He can as easily say to an impure heart, Be thou clean, and it shall be clean; as he could to the leper, Be thou clean, and immediately his leprosy was cleansed. Reader, have faith in Him; for all things are possible to him that believeth.

      3. There are many ungodly men in the world who deny the inspiration of God's Holy Spirit, and affect to ridicule those who profess to have received what they know Christ has purchased and God has promised, and which, in virtue of this, they have claimed by faith; because, say these mockers, "If you had the Spirit of God, you could work miracles: show us a miracle, and we will believe you to be inspired." Will these persons assert that St. Paul had not God's Spirit when he could neither heal himself, nor restore his friends and fellow helpers from apparent death? What then doth their arguing prove? Silly men, of shallow minds!

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      Copyright Statement
      The Adam Clarke Commentary is a derivative of an electronic edition prepared by GodRules.net.

      Bibliography Information
      Clarke, Adam. "Commentary on Philippians 2". "The Adam Clarke Commentary". <http://www.studylight.org/com/acc/view.cgi?book=php&chapter=002>. 1832.  


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