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Article Excerpt
The Revised Common Lectionary does us a favor by including v. 5, rather than isolating the narrative or "hymn" (vv. 6-11) from its context. (May preachers follow that lead!) The "mind" mentioned in v. 5 is not simply knowledge or a private characteristic; it is rather the "mindset" of how one sees oneself, one's brothers and sisters, the world, and God. Put simply, one's view of reality necessarily affects behavior and relationships. Paul has already referred to the "mind" that he has toward the Philippian church, giving thanks for its congregants and holding them in his heart (1:7, with NRSV footnote). He urged them to have the "same mind" among themselves, which means, among other things, having mutual love, not acting out of competition or envy, and humbling oneself (vv. 2a-4). Later, Paul will urge this common "mind" for Euodia and Syntyche, his fellow-workers and, most likely, probable leaders in the Philippian church (4:2). Our text shows how this "mind," which is central to the church's life, is embodied in Jesus.
Paul is certainly presenting Jesus as the paradigm for the church's life. For Paul, there is no gospel without obedience, and no faith without being conformed to Jesus' death. However, Paul is...
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John 15:12-17.(Between Text & Sermon)(Critical Essay), April 01, 2004
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