Philippians 2:3-4 in Context
Philippians 2:3-4 read in its full chapter context. See the verses before and after, plus historical setting and flow of thought.
"Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."
— Philippians 2:3-4 (KJV)
Where This Verse Sits
Philippians 2:3-4 appears in Philippians chapter 2, verse 3. Paul wrote from Roman imprisonment around AD 61-62. The Philippian church had internal conflicts (Euodia and Syntyche, 4:2). Paul counters selfish ambition by pointing to Christ's self-emptying (vv. 5-8) as the ultimate model of humility. Roman culture valued honor, status, and self-promotion—Paul's call was radically countercultural.
The Verse Itself
"Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."
— Philippians 2:3-4 (KJV)
Flow of the Passage
To grasp Philippians 2:3-4 fully, read it inside the surrounding paragraph. The verses before set up the argument, and the verses after show its outworking. Philippians 2 as a whole carries forward the theme of humility, and this single verse is one beat in that larger movement.
Paul calls believers to reject selfish ambition and empty pride. Instead, true humility considers others' needs and interests as more important than one's own.
Cross-References
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