The Apostle Paul was writing to believers in Philippi. He encouraged them to stand firm in their faith in spite of persecution or other affliction. He was pleased with the progress they had made so far, in exhibiting tenderness and compassion – but now he was asking them to make him completely happy by being in full accord with each other. Instead of acting selfishly or proud, he encouraged them to be humble and consider others to be more significant than themselves.

 
Many of the Philippians were enjoying a time of prosperity and had recently sent a gift to Paul. Some were retired military leaders. Being humble and looking out for the needs of others may have been a stretch for some of them. In light of this, Paul stressed the importance of being like-minded and being one in spirit and purpose.

Often churches have one or two members who feel their opinion should carry more weight than others. Many times, it is someone who has been successful in business or has had the financial means to give substantially to the church. Thus, exhibiting a prideful attitude that makes for a less than harmonious situation in the body.

Paul goes on to state, “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.” Jesus was God, yet emptied Himself and became nothing in order to be obedient and die for our sins. Having the humility that Jesus portrayed would produce unity in the church, for sure! (Refer to Philippians 2:1-8 NIV.)