Philippians 2:29-3:6 NIV

Expository Notes of Dr. Thomas Constable - Philippians 2:29

Paul wanted Epaphroditus’ homecoming to be a joyous occasion. He had carried out his mission successfully and had ministered to Paul with distinction. He urged the Philippians to regard him highly and to welcome him wholeheartedly. read more

John Dummelow

John Dummelow's Commentary on the Bible - Philippians 2:1-30

The Mutual Service of Paul and Philippian Church§ 7. Philippians 2:1-11, In view of what has just been said, therefore the Apostle entreats his readers, under all the obligations arising from past fellowship (Philippians 2:1), to make his joy complete by a thorough concord (Philippians 2:2). This will be attained through self-effacing regard for each other (Philippians 2:3-4), of which Christ is the ground and example (Philippians 2:5-8).1. St. Paul invokes four bonds of friendship: exhortation... read more

Charles John Ellicott

Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers - Philippians 2:12-30

[5.Exhortation and Commendation (Philippians 2:12-30).(1) EXHORTATION TO WORK OUT THEIR SALVATION through the in working of God, and so to be lights in the world, and the glory of the Apostle, even in the hour of martyrdom (Philippians 2:12-18).(2) ST. PAUL’S INTENTION TO SEND TIMOTHY, AND HOPE TO COME HIMSELF SHORTLY (Philippians 2:19-24).(3) PRESENT MISSION OF EPAPHRODITUS, now recovered from his late sickness, and strong commendation of his zeal (Philippians 2:25-30).](12-18) By the word... read more

William Nicoll

Expositor's Dictionary of Texts - Philippians 2:1-30

Against Controversy Philippians 2:3-5 There are two great notes in St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians: I. The Note of Joy. The first the note of joy: 'Rejoice,' he is always crying, and this is the more noble because, as you remember, he wrote as a prisoner and as one in chains. And the point reminds us once more that no chain can ever fetter the free spirit: Stone walls do not a prison make, Nor iron bars a cage. Even so one thinks of Bunyan with his body indeed in Bedford gaol, and with... read more

William Nicoll

Expositor's Bible Commentary - Philippians 2:19-30

Chapter 9TIMOTHY AND EPAPHRODITUS.Philippians 2:19-30 (R.V.)THE outpouring of his thoughts, his feelings, and his desires towards the Philippians has so far spent itself. Now he turns to mention the steps he is taking, in response to their communication, to express practically his love and his care for their welfare. Yet we must carry along with us what has just been said of the Christian service and sacrifice, and of the tie between the Apostle and his converts; for these thoughts are still in... read more

Arno Clemens Gaebelein

Arno Gaebelein's Annotated Bible - Philippians 2:1-30

II. CHRIST, THE BELIEVER’S PATTERN CHAPTER 2 1. Oneness of mind through self effacement (Philippians 2:1-4 ) 2. The humiliation and exaltation of Christ (Philippians 2:5-11 ) 3. Work out your own salvation (Philippians 2:12-13 ) 4. As lights in the world (Philippians 2:14-16 ) 5. The example of Paul (Philippians 2:17-18 ) 6. The example of Timotheus (Philippians 2:19-24 ) 7. The example of Epaphroditus (Philippians 2:25-30 ) Philippians 2:1-4 This chapter puts before us Christ as our... read more

L.M. Grant

L. M. Grant's Commentary on the Bible - Philippians 2:1-30

In the first chapter we have seen that Christ is the very principle of life that motivates the apostle in whatever circumstances, - and so indeed it should be for all believers. Chapter 2 now brings Christ Jesus before us in His voluntary humiliation and obedience unto death, as the great Example of His people. Vibrant life and freshness of soul is sweet, but it will soon vanish if it does not issue in lowly obedience. Thus, if souls have found "consolation in Christ - comfort of love -... read more

James Gray

James Gray's Concise Bible Commentary - Philippians 2:1-30

JOY IN SE RV ICE EXPRESSED UNITY We here touch the weak point in the spiritual life of this church: a tendency toward dissension and separation. It is sad, as another says, that this tendency “is not least likely to be operative where there is generally diffused life and vigor” in a church, just as a state of lukewarmness may favor an outward tranquility. Paul plies his arguments against it, saying in effect, if there is any such thing as comfort drawn from our common union in Christ, any... read more

Robert Hawker

Hawker's Poor Man's Commentary - Philippians 2:14-30

(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 world; (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. (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... read more

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible - Philippians 2:19-30

19-30 It is best with us, when our duty becomes natural to us. Naturally, that is, sincerely, and not in pretence only; with a willing heart and upright views. We are apt to prefer our own credit, ease, and safety, before truth, holiness, and duty; but Timothy did not so. Paul desired liberty, not that he might take pleasure, but that he might do good. Epaphroditus was willing to go to the Philippians, that he might be comforted with those who had sorrowed for him when he was sick. It seems,... read more