Exposition of Philippians 2:21 on Self-Interest
Exposition of Philippians 2:21 on Self-Interest
Philippians 2:21 states, "For all the others look after their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ" (BSB) [1]. This verse is part of Paul's discussion about the motivations and actions of those around him, particularly in comparison to Timothy, whom he commends for his genuine concern for the welfare of others.
The literary context of Philippians 2:21 is crucial. Paul is writing to the Philippians about his hopes to send Timothy to them, highlighting Timothy's unique selflessness and genuine interest in their well-being (Philippians 2:19-20). In contrast, Paul notes that others around him, likely referring to those with him in Rome, are primarily concerned with their own interests rather than the cause of Christ [5].
The historical setting of this epistle is significant. Paul is writing from prison, likely in Rome, to the church in Philippi, a city in Macedonia. The letter is a testament to Paul's concern for the Philippians and his desire to encourage them in their faith despite his own challenging circumstances [2].
The key term here is "their own interests" (τὰ ἑαυτῶν, ta heautōn), which Paul contrasts with "the things of Jesus Christ" or "the things of others" as mentioned in Philippians 2:4. This contrast highlights the tension between self-centeredness and selflessness, a recurring theme in Paul's writings (1 Corinthians 10:24; 13:5) [4, 6].
One major exegetical decision revolves around the identity of "all the others." The context suggests that Paul is referring to those around him at the time of writing, possibly including some who were preaching Christ out of less than noble motives (Philippians 1:15-17). Interpreters like Adam Clarke understand this to refer to those who preached Christ out of envy and strife, lacking the selfless love and zeal that characterized Timothy [7].
The range of interpretations on this verse reflects various understandings of Paul's context and the nature of the contrast he draws. Calvin interprets Paul's statement as highlighting the rarity of individuals like Timothy, who are genuinely concerned for the welfare of others and the cause of Christ. This interpretation underscores the challenge of living a selfless life, focused on the interests of Christ rather than one's own [5].
Philippians 2:21 has functioned in Christian tradition as a call to selflessness and a critique of self-interest. It is often cited alongside other passages that emphasize the importance of putting others first and living for the sake of Christ (1 Corinthians 10:24, 33; 13:5). The verse has been used in various theological discussions about the nature of Christian love and the characteristics of genuine discipleship [3].
Sources
- Philippians “Philippians 2:21 (BSB) — For all the others look after their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.”
- Treasury of Scripture Knowledge “Philippians 2:19 cross-references: Jeremiah 17:5, Matthew 12:21, Romans 15:12, Romans 16:21, 1 Corinthians 4:17, Ephesians 1:13, Ephesians 6:21, Philippians 1:1, Philippians 2:23, Philippians 2:28, Colossians 4:8, 1 Thessalonians 3:2, 1 Thessalonians 3:6, 2 Thessalonians 1:3, 2 Timothy 1:12, Philemon 1:5, James 4:15, 1 Peter 1:21, 3 John 1:3”
- Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Selfishness — Contrary to the law of God -- Le 19:18; Mt 22:39; Jas 2:8. The example of Christ condemns -- Joh 4:34; Ro 15:3; 2Co 8:9. God hates -- Mal 1:10. Exhibited in Being lovers of ourselves. -- 2Ti 3:2. Pleasing ourselves. -- Ro 15:1. Seeking our own. -- 1Co 10:33; Php 2:21. Seeking after gain. -- Isa 56:11. Seeking undue precedence. -- Mt 20:21. Living to ourselves. -- 2Co 5:15. Neglect of the poor. -- 1Jo 3:17. Serving God for reward. -- Mal 1:10. Performing duty for reward. -- Mic 3:11. Inconsistent with Christian love -- 1Co 13:5. Inconsistent with communi”
- Philippians (Protestant academic) “Tyndale House on Philippians 2:3: 2:3-4 Don’t be selfish: Self-centeredness is antithetical to genuine care for others (cp. 2:20-21; 1 Cor 10:24; Gal 5:26).”
- CCEL (Reformed) “Calvin, Commentary on Philippians, Colossians, 1-2 Thessalonians, section 13.4: it is not allowable to determine anything as to the future, except, so to speak, under the Lord’s hand. When he adds, that I may be in tranquillity , he declares his affection towards them, inasmuch as he was so much concerned as to their dangers, that he was not at ease until he received accounts of their prosperity. 20 I have no man like-minded . While some draw another meaning from the passage, I interpret it thus: “I have no one equally well-affected for attending to your interests.” For Paul, in my opinion, co”
- Philippians (Presbyterian) “Jamieson, Fausset & Brown on Philippians 2:4: 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).”
- Philippians (Methodist/Wesleyan) “Adam Clarke on Philippians 2:21: For all seek their own - This must relate to the persons who preached Christ even of envy and strife, Phi 1:15; these must be very careless whether souls were saved or not by such preaching; and even those who preached the Gospel out of good will might not be fit for such an embassy as this, which required many sacrifices, and consequently much love and zeal to be able to make them.”