Philippians 2:21

Afrikaans (NLV) 2011

Al die ander soek net hulle eie belang en nie dit wat vir Jesus Christus saak maak nie.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Philippians says that everyone is looking out for themselves instead of caring about what Jesus cares about. Paul wrote this, and he's expressing disappointment because people are not focused on serving God.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a friend who only wants to play with toys they like but doesn't care if you're having fun too. This verse is saying that everyone acts like that friend, focusing just on themselves instead of what Jesus cares about.

Historical Background

The Apostle Paul wrote this letter around the year 60 AD while he was imprisoned in Rome. He addressed it to the church in Philippi, a group of believers who had shown great love and support for him despite their distance from each other.

Living It Out Today

In your school project team, you might see everyone trying to get the best grade for themselves without caring how the whole project turns out. This verse reminds us that we should care more about what Jesus cares about, like teamwork and serving others, rather than just our own success.

Topics

• selfishness
• service
• love
• faithfulness
• spiritual priorities
• community

Related Verses

• 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
• John 15:12-13
• Luke 9:23-26
• Matthew 22:36-40
• Romans 8:5-8

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Paul write this verse?

Paul wrote this verse to express his disappointment that many people were focused on their own interests rather than what Jesus cares about, which includes love and service.

How does selfishness affect a community?

Selfishness can lead to division and lack of cooperation within a community. It prevents the group from achieving its full potential because everyone is focused on their own goals instead of working together towards common values like Jesus' teachings.

What are some ways to prioritize what Jesus cares about?

You can focus on serving others, showing love and kindness, forgiving those who wrong you, and seeking to understand God's will as revealed in the Bible. These actions align with Jesus’ priorities.

Can this verse be applied in non-religious contexts?

Yes, this verse can encourage anyone to think beyond self-interest by promoting teamwork, community service, and putting others' needs before their own. This approach can enhance relationships and effectiveness in any group setting.