Let this mind be in youThis phrase calls believers to adopt a mindset or attitude that aligns with the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. The term "mind" here refers to a way of thinking or a disposition. In the context of Philippians, Paul is addressing a community that he encourages to live in unity and humility. This exhortation is consistent with the broader biblical theme of transformation through the renewal of the mind, as seen in
Romans 12:2. The call to have a Christ-like mindset is foundational to Christian discipleship, emphasizing the importance of internal transformation that leads to external actions.
which was also in Christ Jesus:
The mindset that believers are to adopt is exemplified by Christ Himself. This phrase introduces the Christological hymn that follows inPhilippians 2:6-11, which describes the humility and exaltation of Jesus. Historically, this passage is significant as it reflects early Christian beliefs about the nature and work of Christ. Theologically, it underscores the incarnation, where Jesus, though fully divine, took on human form and lived a life of obedience and humility. This serves as the ultimate model for believers, highlighting themes of selflessness and servanthood. The reference to Christ's mindset connects to other scriptures, such asMatthew 11:29, where Jesus describes Himself as "gentle and humble in heart," andJohn 13:14-15, where He washes the disciples' feet, demonstrating servant leadership.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
Paul the ApostleThe author of the letter to the Philippians, writing to encourage and instruct the church in Philippi.
2.
PhilippiA Roman colony in Macedonia, where Paul established a church during his second missionary journey.
3.
Christ JesusThe central figure of Christianity, whose mindset and example are the focus of this passage.
Teaching Points
The Mind of ChristEmulate Christ's humility, selflessness, and obedience.
Understand that having the mind of Christ involves a radical transformation of our thoughts and attitudes.
Humility and ServiceChrist's mindset was characterized by humility and a willingness to serve others, even to the point of death.
We are called to adopt this same attitude in our interactions with others.
Unity in the Body of ChristHaving the mind of Christ fosters unity among believers, as it leads to putting others' needs above our own.
This unity is essential for the effective witness of the church.
Obedience to God's WillChrist's life was marked by obedience to the Father, even when it led to suffering.
We are encouraged to follow His example, trusting in God's plan for our lives.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Philippians 2:5?
2.How can we adopt the mindset of Christ as described in Philippians 2:5?
3.What does "attitude of Christ Jesus" mean in practical daily life?
4.How does Philippians 2:5 relate to Romans 12:2 about renewing the mind?
5.In what ways can we emulate Christ's humility in our relationships?
6.How can Philippians 2:5 guide our interactions within the church community?
7.How does Philippians 2:5 define the mindset of Christ for believers today?
8.What historical context influenced Paul's writing of Philippians 2:5?
9.How does Philippians 2:5 challenge modern Christian leadership models?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Philippians 2?
11.What defines a Christian disciple?
12.How does your attitude reflect your faith?
13.What does it mean to emulate Jesus?
14.How can we submit to each other?What Does Philippians 2:5 Mean
Let- The verse begins with an invitation that carries the weight of a command: “let.” Scripture consistently calls believers to choose obedience, such as “Submit yourselves therefore to God” (James 4:7) and “Present yourselves to God as those who are alive from the dead” (Romans 6:13).
- God never forces Christ-likeness; He offers it and urges us to yield. Our part is humble consent, trusting that “it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose” (Philippians 2:13).
- In practical terms, “let” means opening every area of life to His influence—thoughts, motives, conversations, daily plans.
this mind- “Mind” points to the settled attitude or way of thinking shaped by truth.Romans 12:2 tells us, “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind,” and1 Corinthians 2:16 reminds us, “We have the mind of Christ.”
- Key traits of this Christ-mind set:
• Humility (Matthew 11:29)
• Self-sacrifice (Mark 10:45)
• Obedient trust in the Father (John 5:19)
• Love that serves (John 13:1–17)
- By focusing on who Christ is and what He values, we trade selfish impulses for godly priorities.
be in you- The phrase shifts from theory to personal ownership.Colossians 1:27 celebrates “Christ in you, the hope of glory.”
- This inward reality is lived out asGalatians 2:20 describes: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.”
- Practical outworking:
• Daily Scripture intake feeds Christ-centered thinking (Psalm 119:11).
• Prayerful dependence keeps the heart pliable (Philippians 4:6–7).
• Fellowship with believers sharpens and sustains the mindset (Hebrews 10:24–25).
which was also- These words link us to a real historical pattern, not an abstract ideal. “Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps” (1 Peter 2:21).
- The same mindset that governed Jesus’ earthly life is the template for ours. He shows the way, walks with us, and empowers us to imitate Him (John 13:15).
in Christ Jesus- The verse ends by anchoring everything in Christ Himself. Apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:5).
- Union with Christ means:
• New identity: “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
• Ongoing life-source: “Because I live, you also will live” (John 14:19).
• Secured victory: “Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57).
summaryPhilippians 2:5 calls believers to willingly adopt the very outlook that defined Jesus—humble, obedient, self-giving love. By yielding (“let”), focusing on Christ’s priorities (“this mind”), welcoming His life within (“be in you”), following His proven example (“which was also”), and living from our union with Him (“in Christ Jesus”), we experience genuine transformation that reflects our Savior to the world.
[
4.The Doctrine of the Great Humility of Christ (
Philippians 2:5-11).
(1) THE VOLUNTARY HUMILIATION OF THE LORD, first in His incarnation, next in His passion (Philippians 2:5-8).
(2) THE CORRESPONDING EXALTATION OF HIS HUMANITY, to bear "the Name above every name," which all creation must adore (Philippians 2:9-11).]
(5-8) From a practical introduction, in the familiar exhortation to follow the example of our Lord, St. Paul passes on to what is, perhaps, the most complete and formal statement in all his Epistles of the doctrine of His "great humility." In this he marks out, first, the Incarnation, in which, "being in the form of God, He took on Him the form of a servant," assuming a sinless but finite humanity; and next, the Passion, which was made needful by the sins of men, and in which His human nature was humiliated to the shame and agony of the cross. Inseparable in themselves, these two great acts of His self-sacrificing love must be distinguished. Ancient speculation delighted to suggest that the first might have been, even if humanity had remained sinless, while the second was added because of the fall and its consequences. Such speculations are, indeed, thoroughly precarious and unsubstantial--for we cannot ask what might have been in a different dispensation from our own; and, moreover, we read of our Lord as "the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world" (Revelation 13:8; see also1Peter 1:19)--but they at least point to a true distinction. As "the Word of God" manifested in the Incarnation, our Lord is the treasure of all humanity as such; as the Saviour through death, He is the especial treasure of us as sinners. . . .
Verse 5. -
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus; literally, according to the reading of the best manuscripts,
mind this in you which was also (
minded)
in Christ Jesus. Many manuscripts take the words "every man" (
ἕκαστοι) of Ver. 4 with Ver. 5: "All of you mind this." The words, "in Christ Jesus," show that the corresponding words, "in you," cannot mean "among you," but in yourselves, in your heart. The apostle refers us to the supreme example of unselfishness and humility, the Lord Jesus Christ. He bids us mind (comp.
Romans 8:5) the things which the Lord Jesus minded, to love what he loved, to hate what he hated; the thoughts, desires, motives, of the Christian should be the thoughts, desires, motives, which filled the sacred heart of Jesus Christ our Lord. We must strive to imitate him, to reproduce his image, not only in the outward, but even in the inner life. Especially here we are biddcn to follow his unselfishness and humility.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek
Let this mind beφρονεῖτε(phroneite)Verb - Present Imperative Active - 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 5426:(a) I think, (b) I think, judge, (c) I direct the mind to, seek for, (d) I observe, (e) I care for.inἐν(en)Preposition
Strong's 1722:In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.youὑμῖν(hymin)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 4771:You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.whichὃ(ho)Personal / Relative Pronoun - Nominative Neuter Singular
Strong's 3739:Who, which, what, that.[was] alsoκαὶ(kai)Conjunction
Strong's 2532:And, even, also, namely.inἐν(en)Preposition
Strong's 1722:In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.ChristΧριστῷ(Christō)Noun - Dative Masculine Singular
Strong's 5547:Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.Jesus:Ἰησοῦ(Iēsou)Noun - Dative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2424:Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites.
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NT Letters: Philippians 2:5 Have this in your mind which was (Philipp. Phil. Php.)