Philippians 2:5

KJV

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

KJV (with Strong's)

{G1063} Let {G5426} this {G5124} mind be {G5426} in {G1722} you {G5213}, which {G3739} was also {G2532} in {G1722} Christ {G5547} Jesus {G2424}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Let your attitude toward one another be governed by your being in union with the Messiah Yeshua:

Berean Standard Bible

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus:

American Standard Version

Have this mind in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Philippians 2:5 serves as a pivotal exhortation, calling believers to adopt and embody the very disposition, attitude, and mindset that characterized Jesus Christ. This verse introduces Paul's profound illustration of Christ's unparalleled humility and self-emptying love, providing the ultimate model for the unity, selflessness, and mutual esteem that the apostle urges among the Philippian believers. It is a summons to an internal transformation that shapes all external actions and relationships within the Christian community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Philippians 2:5 acts as the theological hinge connecting Paul's preceding appeals for unity and humility with his subsequent, breathtaking Christological hymn. In [Philippians 2:1-4](/philippians/2-1-4 "Philippians 2:1-4 - Paul's Appeal for Unity and Humility"), Paul passionately urges the Philippians to live in harmony, driven by compassion and a shared Spirit. He explicitly calls them to "do nothing through selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves" ([Philippians 2:3](/philippians/2-3 "Philippians 2:3 - Humility and Esteeming Others")), and to "look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others" ([Philippians 2:4](/philippians/2-4 "Philippians 2:4 - Looking Out for Others' Interests")). Immediately following 2:5, Paul presents the supreme example of this self-sacrificial love in the person of Jesus Christ, detailing His pre-incarnate glory, His humble incarnation, His obedient death on the cross, and His subsequent exaltation ([Philippians 2:6-11](/philippians/2-6-11 "Philippians 2:6-11 - The Christ Hymn")). Thus, 2:5 functions as the imperative that introduces the paradigm, inviting believers to internalize the very disposition that enabled Christ's redemptive work.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians from prison, likely in Rome, around A.D. 60-62. Philippi was a Roman colony, proud of its Roman citizenship and values, which often emphasized honor, status, and personal achievement. This cultural backdrop made Paul's call to humility and self-emptying particularly counter-cultural and challenging. The Philippian church, though generally strong, faced internal tensions, possibly stemming from personal rivalries or differing opinions, as hinted at in Paul's later appeal to Euodia and Syntyche ([Philippians 4:2](/philippians/4-2 "Philippians 4:2 - Paul's Plea for Unity")). Paul's emphasis on Christ's humility directly counters the prevalent Greco-Roman ethos, offering a radical alternative rooted in divine love and servanthood, essential for fostering genuine Christian community in such an environment.
* **Key Themes:** Philippians 2:5 is central to several profound themes in the letter and broader New Testament theology. It introduces the theme of the **Mind of Christ**, urging believers to adopt Jesus's disposition, values, and priorities, which are inherently humble and selfless. This directly leads into the theme of **Humility**, as Christ's example demonstrates the ultimate form of self-abasement for the sake of others, a stark contrast to worldly ambition. The verse also undergirds the theme of **Selflessness and Servanthood**, as having Christ's mind means prioritizing the needs and interests of others above one's own, culminating in sacrificial service. Finally, by embracing this shared mindset, believers are empowered to overcome divisions and strife, thereby fostering **Unity** within the body of Christ, a recurring concern for Paul in his letters (e.g., [Ephesians 4:1-3](/ephesians/4-1-3 "Ephesians 4:1-3 - Unity in the Body of Christ")). The call in [Philippians 2:5](/philippians/2-5 "Philippians 2:5 - The Mind of Christ") is not merely intellectual assent but a transformative call to embody Christ's character.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Mind (Greek, _phronéō'_):** This verb (G5426) is far richer than a simple intellectual thought. It signifies one's way of thinking, one's disposition, attitude, or mindset. It encompasses one's values, priorities, and outlook on life, reflecting the practical orientation of the heart and will. Paul is not asking for mere intellectual assent to Christ's teachings, but for a fundamental shift in the believer's inner disposition to align with Christ's own character and priorities. It implies a conscious, active cultivation of a particular internal posture.
* **In (Greek, _en'_):** This preposition (G1722) denotes fixed position, indicating presence, state, or sphere. When Paul says "in you" and "in Christ Jesus," it highlights a profound relational and experiential reality. It's not just about having Christ's mind *as an example*, but having it *residing within* the believer, becoming an integral part of their inner being. Conversely, it describes the inherent nature and disposition that was already "in" Christ Jesus, His very essence. This dual usage emphasizes both the internalization of Christ's mindset by believers and its intrinsic presence in Christ Himself.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Let this mind be in you":** This is an imperative command, a direct and urgent call from Paul to the Philippian believers. The "mind" (phronéō) refers to a comprehensive attitude, disposition, or way of thinking, encompassing one's values, priorities, and outlook. Paul is urging them to actively cultivate and possess this specific internal orientation. The phrase "in you" emphasizes that this is an internal, personal transformation, not merely an external act. It is a call for a radical shift in their inner being, influencing their motivations, desires, and ultimately, their actions.
* **"which was also in Christ Jesus":** This clause provides the perfect and ultimate model for the "mind" that believers are to adopt. It identifies the disposition of Christ Jesus as the standard and source. The word "also" (kai) underscores the direct correspondence: the same kind of mindset that characterized Jesus during His earthly life and ministry is to be present in His followers. This is not an abstract concept but a concrete, living example found in the person of Christ, whose subsequent actions (as described in Philippians 2:6-8) perfectly illustrate this humble, self-sacrificing disposition.

#### Literary Devices
Philippians 2:5 powerfully employs several literary devices. The verse begins with an **Imperative Mood** ("Let this mind be in you"), signaling a direct command and a call to action rather than a suggestion. This immediately conveys the urgency and importance of Paul's exhortation. Following this, the verse functions as an **Exemplum** or **Paradigm**, presenting Christ Jesus as the supreme model for the desired mindset. Christ is not merely an example among many, but the definitive, perfect embodiment of the humility and selflessness that believers are called to imitate. The "mind" itself can be understood as a **Metaphor** for one's entire inner disposition, character, and moral compass, rather than just intellectual capacity. It encapsulates the spiritual and ethical orientation that defines a person, making the call to adopt Christ's "mind" a profound invitation to a holistic transformation of character.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Philippians 2:5 is a cornerstone of Christian ethics and Christology, deeply connecting the believer's walk with the very nature of God revealed in Christ. It underscores the New Testament emphasis on the imitation of Christ, not merely in outward actions but in inward disposition. This "mind of Christ" is foundational to true Christian community, as it fosters unity, humility, and selfless service, countering pride and self-interest. It reflects the divine paradox that true exaltation comes through self-abasement, a principle supremely demonstrated by Christ's incarnation and crucifixion. Theologically, it highlights the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, who enables believers to progressively put on the character of Christ, aligning their will and affections with His.

* [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformation by Renewing the Mind")
* [1 Corinthians 2:16](/1_corinthians/2-16 "1 Corinthians 2:16 - Having the Mind of Christ")
* [Ephesians 4:22-24](/ephesians/4-22-24 "Ephesians 4:22-24 - Putting on the New Self")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Philippians 2:5 is a profound challenge to the inherent human tendency towards self-promotion and self-interest. To "let this mind be in you" is to embark on a lifelong journey of spiritual formation, actively resisting the world's values of status and power, and instead embracing the counter-cultural path of humility and servanthood exemplified by Christ. This involves a conscious choice to prioritize the well-being and interests of others, to seek reconciliation over conflict, and to find joy in giving rather than receiving. It means cultivating an inner disposition that values lowliness of mind, compassion, and a willingness to sacrifice for the good of the community, mirroring the love that drove Christ to the cross. This transformative process, empowered by the Holy Spirit, enables believers to live out their faith authentically, fostering genuine unity and reflecting the very character of God to a watching world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of my life do I find it most challenging to adopt the selfless "mind of Christ" rather than my own interests?**
* **How can I intentionally cultivate a deeper sense of humility and servanthood in my daily interactions, both within and outside the church?**
* **What practical steps can I take to prioritize the unity and well-being of my community or church over personal preferences or ambitions?**
* **How does understanding Christ's example in [Philippians 2:6-8](/philippians/2-6-8 "Philippians 2:6-8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience") motivate me to embrace His mindset in my own life?**

### FAQ

**What does it mean to have the "mind of Christ"? Is it just intellectual agreement?**

Answer: To have the "mind of Christ" (Greek: _phronéō_) is far more than mere intellectual agreement with His teachings. It signifies adopting His entire disposition, attitude, values, and way of thinking. It's a profound internal transformation that shapes one's character, motivations, and priorities, leading to actions that reflect His humility, selflessness, and servanthood. It involves a reorientation of the will and affections, aligning them with Christ's own heart and purpose, as exemplified in His life and especially in His willingness to empty Himself and suffer for others ([Philippians 2:6-8](/philippians/2-6-8 "Philippians 2:6-8 - The Self-Emptying of Christ")).

**How can a believer cultivate the "mind of Christ"?**

Answer: Cultivating the "mind of Christ" is a lifelong process empowered by the Holy Spirit. It involves several key practices:
1. **Studying Christ's Life and Teachings:** Deeply immersing oneself in the Gospels to understand His character, priorities, and actions (e.g., [Matthew 11:29](/matthew/11-29 "Matthew 11:29 - Learn from Me, for I am Gentle and Lowly in Heart")).
2. **Prayer and Dependence on the Holy Spirit:** Asking God for the grace and power to transform one's inner disposition, recognizing that this is a divine work within us (e.g., [Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit")).
3. **Practicing Humility and Service:** Actively seeking opportunities to put others' interests before one's own, even in small ways, and embracing a posture of servanthood (e.g., [Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")).
4. **Self-Examination and Repentance:** Regularly assessing one's thoughts, motives, and actions against the standard of Christ's character and repenting of any pride or self-centeredness.
This is a journey of spiritual growth, not an instant achievement.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Philippians 2:5 is not merely an ethical injunction but a profound Christological statement, revealing that Christ Himself is the ultimate embodiment and enabler of the very mindset He calls His followers to adopt. Jesus did not just *teach* humility; He *is* humility personified. His pre-incarnate glory, His willingness to "empty himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Self-Emptying")), and His obedient submission to death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")) perfectly illustrate the "mind" Paul exhorts believers to possess. This self-emptying (kenosis) was not a loss of divinity but a voluntary surrender of divine prerogatives for the sake of humanity's redemption. Because Christ perfectly lived out this humble, selfless disposition, He became the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), making possible our reconciliation with God. Furthermore, through His resurrection and the indwelling of His Spirit, Christ empowers believers to genuinely live with His mind, transforming them from within to reflect His character and participate in His ongoing mission of love and service ([Romans 8:9-11](/romans/8-9-11 "Romans 8:9-11 - Indwelling of the Spirit")). Thus, the call to have the mind of Christ is deeply rooted in His finished work and ongoing presence, making it a Christ-centered reality rather than a mere human endeavor.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 John 2:6

He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.

Matthew 11:29

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

1 Peter 2:21

For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:

1 Peter 4:1

¶ Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;

1 Corinthians 10:33

Even as I please all [men] in all [things], not seeking mine own profit, but the [profit] of many, that they may be saved.

1 Corinthians 11:1

¶ Be ye followers of me, even as I also [am] of Christ.

Matthew 20:26

But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;