King James Version

What Does Philippians 2:5 Mean?

Philippians 2:5 in the King James Version says “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: — study this verse from Philippians chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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

Philippians 2:5 · KJV


Context

3

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

4

Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

5

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

6

Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

7

But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus (Τοῦτο φρονεῖτε ἐν ὑμῖν ὃ καὶ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ, Touto phroneite en hymin ho kai en Christō Iēsou)—Touto phroneite ("think this, have this mindset") summons the Christ-pattern as ethical paradigm. Phroneō ("to think, set one's mind on") isn't mere intellect but dispositional orientation—affections, values, priorities. En hymin ("in/among you") suggests both individual mindset and corporate culture.

The standard: ho kai en Christō Iēsou ("which also [was] in Christ Jesus")—Christ's mindset becomes the believer's template. What follows (vv. 6-11) is likely a pre-Pauline Christian hymn Paul quotes/adapts to ground his ethical appeal. This transitions from exhortation (2:1-4) to christological foundation (2:6-11) back to application (2:12-18). Ethics flow from Christology; the indicative (who Christ is) grounds the imperative (how we live). The Christ-hymn is theology's highest summit and ethics' deepest foundation.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Verses 6-11 likely circulated as an early Christian hymn or creed, possibly pre-dating Paul's letter. Its rhythmic structure, theological density, and unique vocabulary suggest liturgical origins. Paul applies corporate worship material to ethical instruction—a pattern throughout his letters. Christ's example wasn't abstract theology but sung, celebrated, embodied reality shaping community life. Early Christian worship was profoundly theological.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does it mean for Christ's 'mind' (phronēma) to shape your thinking and affections?
  2. How does worship (singing theology) shape ethics more powerfully than mere instruction?
  3. In what specific situations this week can you adopt Christ's mindset from verses 6-11?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
τοῦτο1 of 10

this

G5124

that thing

γὰρ2 of 10
G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

φρονείσθω3 of 10

Let

G5426

to exercise the mind, i.e., entertain or have a sentiment or opinion; by implication, to be (mentally) disposed (more or less earnestly in a certain d

ἐν4 of 10

in

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

ὑμῖν5 of 10

you

G5213

to (with or by) you

6 of 10

which

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

καὶ7 of 10

was also

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἐν8 of 10

in

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

Χριστῷ9 of 10

Christ

G5547

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

Ἰησοῦ10 of 10

Jesus

G2424

jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Philippians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Philippians 2:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Philippians 2:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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