Philippians 2:4
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
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. Labor for this, and every one shall receive the honor 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.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
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 Phi 2:21; also Paul's own example (Phi 1:24).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Look, not every man on his own things,.... Not but that a man should take care of his worldly affairs, and look well unto them, and provide things honest in the sight of all men, for himself and his family, otherwise he would be worse than an infidel; but he is not to seek his own private advantage, and prefer it to a public good; accordingly the Syriac version reads it, "neither let anyone be careful of himself, but also everyone of his neighbour"; and the Arabic version thus, "and let none of you look to that which conduces to himself alone, but let everyone of you look to those things which may conduce to his friend"; but this respects spiritual things, and spiritual gifts: a Christian should not seek his own honour and applause, and to have his own will, and a point in a church carried his own way, but should consult the honour of Christ, the good of others, and the peace of the church; he should not look upon his own gifts, he may look upon them, and ascribe them to the grace of God, and make use of them to his glory, but not to admire them, or himself for them, and pride himself in them, and lift up himself above others, neglecting and taking no notice of the superior abilities of others: but every man also on the things of others; not on their worldly things, busying himself with other men's matters, and which he has nothing to do with, but on the sentiments and reasons of others; which he should well weigh and consider, and if they outdo and overbalance his own, should yield unto them; he should take notice of the superior gifts of others, and own and acknowledge them; which is the way to submit to one another in the fear of God, and to promote truth, friendship, and love.
Philippians 2:4
One in Christ
3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves.4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Testimony - Part 7
By Jackie Pullinger3.7K09:53True MinistryTestimonyUnconditional LoveMAT 25:40MRK 12:31LUK 6:35JHN 15:13ROM 5:82CO 5:14GAL 6:2PHP 2:41TH 1:51JN 3:16Jackie Pullinger shares her testimony of faith and sacrifice, illustrating the profound impact of unconditional love and service to others, particularly the needy. She recounts her experience of selling her beloved oboe to help a girl in trouble, emphasizing that true ministry is not about expecting gratitude or change but about reflecting the love of Jesus, who gave His life for us without conditions. Pullinger's encounter with a gang leader highlights the importance of living out the gospel through actions and genuine care, rather than mere words. Ultimately, she stresses that the essence of ministry lies in sharing our lives and love with others, just as Christ did for us.
Why Church God's Purpose
By Francis Chan1.9K22:47PRO 19:17MAT 6:3LUK 6:38ACT 20:352CO 9:7GAL 6:2PHP 2:4HEB 13:16JAS 2:141JN 3:17This sermon highlights the importance of community and missions, focusing on the impact of supporting and serving others selflessly. It shares stories of partnership with churches in Mexico, the power of collective giving to organizations like Children's Hunger Fund, and the miraculous provision and blessings experienced when prioritizing generosity and missions.
Profiteering Christianity
By Zac Poonen1.8K59:06GEN 3:12NUM 22:122KI 5:20MAT 6:33ACT 20:332CO 9:6PHP 2:41TI 6:102PE 2:1This sermon emphasizes the dangers of seeking personal gain in the name of Christianity, using examples from the stories of Balaam, Naaman, and Gehazi. It highlights the importance of putting God first, seeking to bless others rather than seeking benefit for oneself, and the consequences of using God's blessings for personal profit. The message calls for a shift in mindset towards selflessness and generosity, focusing on giving rather than receiving.
Who Is Looking at You by K P Yohannan
By K.P. Yohannan1.4K02:58MAT 22:39GAL 6:2PHP 2:4JAS 1:271JN 3:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of shifting our focus from ourselves to others, highlighting how self-centered pursuits can lead to emptiness and a lack of meaning in life. The speaker shares observations from traveling and watching people in airports, noting how individuals often believe everyone is looking at them when in reality, people are focused on themselves. The key lesson is to prioritize thinking about others, serving those in need, and aligning our actions with God's will to live a fulfilling and purposeful life.
Meditate Don't Medicate
By Ken Graves1.3K46:19MedicinePHP 2:41PE 1:5In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a stormy experience on a boat with Jesus and his disciples. He describes the fear and panic that consumed them as the waves grew stronger. However, amidst the chaos, Jesus remained calm and slept peacefully, showing his unwavering trust in God's plan. The speaker questions Jesus, expressing doubt and fear of death. Ultimately, the sermon emphasizes the importance of following Jesus and trusting in his guidance, even in the midst of life's storms.
Spiritual Insights 04 Hosea 6:3
By William MacDonald1.3K40:00Spiritual InsightsPSA 32:9MAT 5:25PHP 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living for others and using our gifts and talents for productive activity. He warns against wallowing in self-pity and encourages Christians to seek opportunities to serve and help others. The preacher also highlights the significance of applying the information we receive, as information without application leads to stagnation. He uses the example of the Dead Sea to illustrate this point. Additionally, he discusses the importance of discerning the guidance of God and waiting for His peace before taking action.
Three Stages Spiritual Growth - Part 6
By Zac Poonen1.2K08:34PSA 119:11PRO 11:25EZK 36:27GAL 6:2PHP 2:4JAS 2:141JN 3:18REV 3:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of allowing the word of God to dwell in us, meditating on it, and making it a part of our lives to overcome sin and Satan. It encourages moving beyond personal growth to becoming a blessing to others, sacrificially giving and serving without expecting anything in return. The message highlights the transformation from being a child in faith to becoming a spiritual father or mother by actively seeking ways to bless and help those around us.
The Prison Epistles 05 phil.2:4 - "Others"
By David Clifford71352:14ISA 58:1LUK 11:1PHP 2:4In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of humility and unselfishness, using the example of a friend visiting another friend who is hungry. The first friend goes to ask for food from Mr. Lord, emphasizing the need to look out for the interests of others. The speaker then transitions to discussing a passage from the Bible, where God instructs his people to confront their sins. Despite appearing to be good and godly, the people still needed to acknowledge their transgressions and seek God's guidance.
Process of Growth to Maturity
By John Follette7102:57:50Spiritual GrowthMAT 6:33ROM 5:51CO 10:24PHP 2:4REV 19:7REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not becoming complacent or spiritually stagnant. He uses the analogy of a man who is impressed by his own mental death, highlighting the danger of being thrilled by worldly things instead of focusing on spiritual growth. The preacher encourages listeners to walk in their faith and not try to fly before they are ready. He also discusses the significance of different postures in worship and the need for self-judgment and maturity in the Christian journey. The sermon references various Bible verses to support these teachings.
Key Words in Philippians 03 the Word "Mind"
By David Clifford69048:15MAT 6:33PHP 1:27PHP 2:4PHP 2:11PHP 3:9In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of having the mind of Christ Jesus. He emphasizes the concept of dying to oneself in order to truly live and bear fruit. The speaker also highlights the need for self-surrender and a spirit of peace and restfulness in order to achieve unity and oneness among believers. The sermon references various Bible verses, including Philippians 3:14 and 4:7, to support these teachings.
Attitudes to Other Fields & People
By George Verwer58238:31MissionsMAT 6:33MAT 7:1ROM 12:151CO 12:26EPH 4:32PHP 2:4JAS 5:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of showing mercy to others, just as God is merciful with us. They also encourage having a genuine interest in other people's work and problems, in order to develop a balanced view and avoid generalizations and dogmatism. The speaker urges for involved intercession, highlighting the biblical truth that when one member suffers, we all suffer, and when one rejoices, we all rejoice. They also mention a book called "Lessons from a Sheepdog" that teaches about being under the wrong management and how Jesus comes into our lives with love and tenderness, seeing beyond our sins. The sermon concludes with a plea for unity and victory across all fields of work, and a call to prayerfully consider the message and take appropriate actions.
Hindrances to Prayer
By Chad Thompson5171:20:32PrayerPRO 21:13LUK 6:37PHP 2:41JN 1:8In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Luke 6:37-38, which teaches about not judging or condemning others, and the importance of forgiveness. The preacher emphasizes that if we are stingy with others, we cannot expect God to be generous with us in prayer. He warns against spiritual laziness and urges Christians to stay vigilant and not be weighed down by worldly cares. The preacher also highlights the need for prayer and references the disciples' failure to stay awake and pray with Jesus before his betrayal.
Every Believer Is Called to the Ministry
By Shane Idleman1152:02FaithfulnessMinistryMAT 25:40ACT 20:24ROM 12:11CO 12:12GAL 6:2EPH 4:12PHP 2:42TI 4:5JAS 1:221PE 4:10Shane Idleman emphasizes that every believer is called to ministry, highlighting the importance of fulfilling God's purpose in our lives to avoid feelings of dissatisfaction and discouragement. He encourages the congregation to recognize that ministry is not solely the pastor's responsibility but a calling for all Christians, regardless of the size or visibility of their efforts. Shane stresses that true ministry is measured by faithfulness rather than numbers, urging believers to serve those in need and to be open to God's leading in their lives. He reminds the audience that ministry often involves confronting uncomfortable truths and that God uses our weaknesses to help others. Ultimately, Shane calls for a commitment to serve and to share the love of Christ with those around us.
The Remedy for Sadness
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PRO 11:25GAL 6:2EPH 4:32PHP 2:4COL 3:12Mary Wilder Tileston emphasizes the importance of cultivating kindness in our lives, highlighting how acts of kindness can break the spell of sadness and self-absorption. She explains that prayer is the remedy for sadness, but when sadness stems from selfishness, turning to God in prayer may be met with reluctance. Tileston suggests that breaking out of sadness can be achieved by engaging in external acts of kindness or generosity, which help shift the focus away from oneself and towards others, ultimately freeing the spirit from melancholy.
Prepared for Great Sacrifice
By Mary Wilder Tileston0MAT 20:28ROM 12:10GAL 5:13PHP 2:41JN 3:18Mary Wilder Tileston emphasizes the importance of serving one another in love, highlighting how fulfilling the law is encapsulated in loving our neighbors as ourselves. She warns against the dangers of selfishness and the benefits of living for the sake of others, leading to a gracious and noble character. Tileston encourages the practice of making sacrifices in small things to prepare for greater acts of service when needed, urging the congregation to address personal weaknesses like temper, pride, and indulgence to be ready for moments of significant love and service.
Inward and Outward Sacrifices
By Zac Poonen0SacrificeDiscipleshipMAT 6:21MAT 25:40LUK 9:23ROM 12:12CO 9:7GAL 6:2PHP 2:4HEB 10:24JAS 2:171JN 3:17Zac Poonen emphasizes the need for a balance between inward and outward sacrifices in the Christian life, warning against the tendency to focus solely on internal spirituality while neglecting practical acts of service and sacrifice for others. He points out that Jesus and the apostles exemplified this balance, demonstrating that true discipleship involves both personal commitment and outward action to bless others. Poonen challenges believers to examine their priorities, noting that what we prioritize often reveals our true worship, and cautions against the deception of thinking we are spiritually mature while living selfishly. He calls for a genuine commitment to sacrifice time, energy, and resources for the sake of the gospel and others, rather than succumbing to the comforts of modern life. Ultimately, he urges Christians to align their lives with the sacrificial example of Christ, moving beyond mere knowledge to a life of active love and service.
The Testing of Moses
By Zac Poonen0EXO 32:10NUM 14:12ROM 15:11CO 10:24PHP 2:4JAS 4:3Zac Poonen preaches on how God tested Moses twice to see if he would seek his own honor at the expense of the Israelites, and how Moses passed the test with flying colors both times, displaying a spirit of selflessness and intercession. Despite the opportunity to become the inheritor of the promises made to Abraham and the twelve tribes of Israel, Moses pleaded with God to spare the Israelites, willing even to be blotted out from God's book for their sake. This selfless attitude led to God speaking intimately with Moses and granting him the privilege of seeing His glory.
How It Begins
By K.P. Yohannan0Relationships in ChristRadical FaithTransformationPSA 51:6MAT 16:24LUK 10:1JHN 13:35ACT 1:8ACT 2:45ACT 5:41ACT 9:27ROM 12:10PHP 2:4K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the three distinct characteristics of movements initiated by God, as seen in the early church: radical commitment, transformational growth, and relational dynamics. He highlights how early Christians were fearless and willing to take risks for their faith, viewing their mission as a one-way trip with no turning back. Yohannan also discusses the transformative power of God in the lives of believers, illustrating how Jesus focused on potential rather than perfection, and how relationships were central to the early church's growth. He encourages the church today to embrace these principles to foster a vibrant and impactful faith community.
Let's Wait One More Year!
By Phil Beach Jr.0PHP 2:4Phil Beach Jr. preaches on the importance of selflessness and considering the interests of others, emphasizing that this is the key to overcoming spiritual decline and barrenness in God's house. He highlights the need for Christ's law of life to govern every aspect of our lives, from actions to plans, in order to reveal the true nature of Christ in His church. The sermon delves into the necessity of deep repentance, brokenness, and a shift from living for self to living for God's interests and the good of others.
The Claim of Christian Endeavor
By Claude E. Hill0PRO 11:251CO 3:61CO 12:122CO 9:6GAL 5:6GAL 6:7PHP 2:41TI 6:10JAS 2:18Claude E. Hill preaches about the significance of Christian Endeavor within the church, emphasizing that while it is not the sole focus, it has played a vital role in theological discussions, promoting faith through works and emphasizing the importance of activity over mere intellectual pursuits. Christian Endeavor has contributed to Christian unity, peace, and missionary education, helping to instill a money conscience and raise the standard of good citizenship. It has been a servant of the church, aiding in various societal battles and claiming a servant's reward.
Christmas 365 Days a Year
By Jack Hyles0PRO 11:25MAT 10:39MAT 25:40LUK 6:38ACT 20:35ROM 12:10GAL 6:2PHP 2:4JAS 1:271JN 3:17Jack Hyles preaches about the true essence of Christmas, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment found in selflessly serving and giving to others. He shares heartwarming stories of individuals from his congregation who exemplified this spirit of generosity and compassion during the holiday season. Hyles challenges his listeners to embrace a lifestyle of living for others, not just during Christmas but every day of the year, drawing inspiration from the teachings of Jesus on selflessness and sacrificial love.
On Sundays, Let All Occupy Themselves in Reading
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PRO 31:27GAL 6:2PHP 2:4COL 3:231TH 5:14St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of occupying oneself in reading and various duties on Sundays, highlighting the need to avoid idleness and negligence. He advises that those who are weak or sickly should be given tasks or crafts that keep them busy without overburdening them, showing compassion and consideration for their limitations.
Life of the Servant #3 "Serving Members Make a Serving Church"
By A.W. Tozer0Church CommunityServiceMAT 25:40MRK 10:45ACT 13:36ROM 12:1GAL 5:13EPH 2:10PHP 2:4COL 3:23JAS 2:141PE 4:10A.W. Tozer emphasizes that a church's effectiveness in serving is directly tied to the individual service of its members. He reflects on the biblical example of David, who served his generation by the will of God, and stresses that the church is not a mystical entity but a collective of people who must actively engage in service. Tozer warns against the church becoming complacent or distracted by worldly activities, urging members to focus on their calling to serve others in practical ways. He calls for a commitment to worship and service that reflects Christ's love and compassion, encouraging the congregation to act selflessly in their communities. Ultimately, Tozer challenges the church to remain dedicated to its mission of serving both God and humanity.
About Your Shadow
By J.R. Miller0InfluenceHealing PresencePRO 12:25MAT 5:16JHN 13:34ACT 5:15ROM 15:12CO 1:4GAL 6:2PHP 2:41TH 5:11HEB 10:24J.R. Miller emphasizes the profound impact of the shadows we cast in our lives, drawing inspiration from the healing power of Peter's shadow in the New Testament. He illustrates that while we may not perform miracles, our presence can either uplift or burden those around us. Miller encourages Christians to be mindful of the influence they have, advocating for a 'rainbow shadow' that brings light, hope, and healing to others. He warns against the tendency to deepen others' sorrows and stresses the importance of embodying Christ's love and victorious spirit to inspire and comfort those in need. Ultimately, he calls for a selfless approach to relationships, where our interactions leave a positive mark on others.
Let the Brethren Serve One Another
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PHP 2:4St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of serving one another in the community, with no one excused from kitchen service except for valid reasons like sickness or important work. This service not only brings rewards but also fosters charity among the brethren. Helpers should be provided for the weak to prevent distress, and assistance should be given based on the community's size or circumstances. Those with greater responsibilities or utility are excused from kitchen duties, while the rest are encouraged to serve one another in love.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
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. Labor for this, and every one shall receive the honor 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.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
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 Phi 2:21; also Paul's own example (Phi 1:24).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Look, not every man on his own things,.... Not but that a man should take care of his worldly affairs, and look well unto them, and provide things honest in the sight of all men, for himself and his family, otherwise he would be worse than an infidel; but he is not to seek his own private advantage, and prefer it to a public good; accordingly the Syriac version reads it, "neither let anyone be careful of himself, but also everyone of his neighbour"; and the Arabic version thus, "and let none of you look to that which conduces to himself alone, but let everyone of you look to those things which may conduce to his friend"; but this respects spiritual things, and spiritual gifts: a Christian should not seek his own honour and applause, and to have his own will, and a point in a church carried his own way, but should consult the honour of Christ, the good of others, and the peace of the church; he should not look upon his own gifts, he may look upon them, and ascribe them to the grace of God, and make use of them to his glory, but not to admire them, or himself for them, and pride himself in them, and lift up himself above others, neglecting and taking no notice of the superior abilities of others: but every man also on the things of others; not on their worldly things, busying himself with other men's matters, and which he has nothing to do with, but on the sentiments and reasons of others; which he should well weigh and consider, and if they outdo and overbalance his own, should yield unto them; he should take notice of the superior gifts of others, and own and acknowledge them; which is the way to submit to one another in the fear of God, and to promote truth, friendship, and love.