What does it mean to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit (Philippians 2:3)?

Answer

Philippians 2:3–4 states, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Instead, in humility value others above yourselves, focusing not on your own interests but on the interests of others.” Paul encourages the Philippians to adopt Jesus’ mindset in their interactions with others, emphasizing Jesus’ humility. What is the significance of avoiding selfish ambition or vain conceit?

First, let’s clarify some terms. Selfish ambition refers to the desire to elevate oneself or prioritize one’s interests over others’. It reflects a self-centered attitude. The Greek term used here implies a sense of conflict. The King James Bible even translates it as “strife.” Vain conceit denotes “excessive pride” or “unfounded self-esteem”; it involves an inflated and inaccurate self-image. Therefore, refraining from acting out of selfish ambition or vain conceit means not allowing selfishness, pride, or competitiveness to drive our actions.

We can grasp how to avoid selfish ambition or vain conceit by examining the contrasting concepts in the same context. The antidote to selfishness and vanity is to “in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:3-4;ESV). We need to prioritize others over ourselves, shifting the focus away from self-centeredness. By prioritizing others, we can avoid arrogance, pride, and excessive ambition. It becomes challenging to be self-centered when we regard others as more significant.

In Philippians 2:1–2, Paul states, “So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from His love, any fellowship in the Spirit, any affection and compassion, then make

Make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit, and of one mind.” It is through understanding our salvation that we can live in unity with other believers and love them in Christ. The basis of our like-mindedness and freedom from strife is fourfold: 1) we are united with Christ, 2) we are comforted with God’s love, 3) we have the same Spirit, and 4) we have been given tender compassion for others. When we truly see how much Christ has done for us and understand the fullness of His love, pride and selfishness melt away. Those who know the love of Christ do not quarrel for position within the family of God; rather, they recognize the purpose of the body of Christ and live it out. They are willing to take a lower place to serve others «As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. », (1 Peter 4:10). They engage in Christian fellowship with a focus on loving God and others (Mark 12:30-31).

Philippians 2:3b–4 instructs believers to value others above themselves and look out for their interests. We do not elevate ourselves above others but willingly sacrifice to love them. When all believers act this way, we are of one mind, and everyone is cared for. Paul gives similar instructions to the Galatians, counseling them to carry each other’s burdens «Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. », (Galatians 6:2) and to do good to all, especially fellow believers «As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. », (Galatians 6:10). Jesus was the epitome of selflessness, and we are called to follow His example.Some of servanthood. Shortly after washing His disciples’ feet, something usually done by the lowliest of servants, Jesus said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34-35). Jesus’ love was self-sacrificial. He acted for the best of others rather than for His own glory see Matthew 20:28.

In Philippians 2:5–11 Paul details Jesus’ example of humility. Jesus was “in very nature God, [yet] did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage” «Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: », (Philippians 2:5). Rather, the Son of God became human. More than that, He humbled himself to the lowliest position and died a shameful criminal’s death in our place. How can we who follow such a Lord act in pride? When we consider what Christ did for us, we learn not to be so self-absorbed. Jesus promised that, as we seek to glorify God, our needs will be met (Matthew 6:25-34), so we can focus more on meeting the needs of others.

When we understand the incredible sacrifice, grace, and mercy of God on our behalf, we realize that we have no use for pride. When we recognize God’s abundant grace, provision, and love, we understand that we have no need for selfishness. We need not focus solely on our own interests because we rest in our Savior. We have been adopted into an eternal family, and we can learn to love that family as the Father loves us. Rather than be motivated by selfishness or pride, we can be of one mind with fellow believers and put their interests before our own.