What does Philippians 2:29 mean?

Explanation

Philippians 2:29 instructs believers to welcome and honor a fellow Christian with joy and respect.

In its literal sense, it suggests that the person being referred to should be received warmly and esteemed highly within the community of believers.

The deeper meaning extends to how Christians should perceive and treat one another, recognizing the value and contributions of each individual within the body of Christ.

It implies a sense of unity, fellowship, and mutual respect that should be present among believers.

Historical Context

The Epistle to the Philippians is one of Paul's prison letters, written while he was incarcerated, possibly in Rome.

Philippi was a Roman colony in Macedonia and had a small Christian congregation that Paul founded.

The letter was likely written in the early AD 60s and addressed to this particular church.

In the broader context of chapter 2, Paul speaks about unity and humility, using Jesus Christ's own humility and servitude as the ultimate example for believers to follow.

The verse before, Philippians 2:28, mentions that Paul is sending someone back to the Philippians, and in verse 29, he requests that this person be received kindly and with honor.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse exemplifies the Christian virtues of love, hospitality, and recognition of service.

There is an underlying principle of Christian fellowship and the esteem that should be afforded to those who work on behalf of the church and its mission.

Different denominations may interpret the broader implications of "hold such in reputation" somewhat differently.

Still, most agree that honoring fellow workers in faith aligns with the New Testament teachings on how to conduct relationships within the church.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Philippians 2:29 suggests actions such as welcoming new members into a church with joy, supporting church leaders and workers, appreciating and recognizing the contributions of volunteers, and maintaining a culture of respect within the community.

Applying this verse can lead to stronger communal bonds and a healthy environment that attracts and nurtures both current members and newcomers.

Cross-References

• Romans 16:2: "That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also."
• 1 Timothy 5:17: "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine."
• 3 John 1:8: "We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth."

Language Study

The key words in this verse from the Greek manuscript are:

• "Receive" (προσδέχεσθε, prosdechesthe): to accept or welcome, indicating an active reception.
• "In the Lord" (ἐν κυρίῳ, en kyriō): referencing the Christian fellowship and unity found in the relationship with Christ.
• "Gladness" (μετὰ πάσης χαρᾶς, meta pasēs charas): suggesting a fullness of joy or cheerfulness in the reception.
• "Hold such" (τοὺς τοιούτους, tous toioutous): referring to people of a certain kind or those who are worthy due to their actions or service.
• "Reputation" (ἐντίμους, entimous): to value or honor, connoting a high degree of respect.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing Philippians 2:29 with other ancient cultural norms shows an elevated sense of community and mutual support within early Christianity.

Unlike Roman society where social hierarchy often dictated respect and honor, Christian communities were encouraged to honor one another based on service and devotion to the faith.

Similar expectations of hospitality and respect for service can be seen in other religious traditions such as Judaism and in the Greek philosophy of Xenia, which emphasized hospitable conduct towards strangers or guests.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific inquiry into human behavior supports the concept that communal harmony and personal well-being benefit from mutual respect and positive social interactions.

While Philippians 2:29 does not address scientific concepts directly, contemporary psychological studies underscore the importance of community, respect, and social bonds in contributing to individual and collective mental health.

Commentaries

Commentators on this verse have offered various insights.

Matthew Henry emphasizes that true Christian kindness should be shown with all gladness of heart, recognizing that those who serve the church bear God's image and deserve due respect.

John Wesley notes the phrase "hold such in reputation" as an indication that the person being received has distinguished themselves through service and thus merits this honor.

More contemporary scholars suggest that this verse reflects the Pauline ethos of relational Christianity, where the acknowledgment of each other’s roles and steadfastness in faith is paramount.