New Testament · Letters of Paul · World English Bible
Philippians
"He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men."
— Philippians 2:7 
The Reading LensEvery verse pulled to the top of a book is chosen by three questions: Where is God’s heart here? Who is He protecting? Who is being saved by the action? It marks the place where those answers come into clearest focus — a “look at this, in this book.”
About the Letter
Written from prison to a congregation he plainly loved, and the warmest of his letters. Part thank-you note — they had sent money — and part appeal for unity.
Its centre is 2:6–11, almost certainly an early hymn quoted rather than composed on the spot: the one who did not grasp at equality, emptied himself, took the form of a servant, and was obedient to the point of death.
Joy runs through it at an odd angle to the circumstances. He is chained, some are preaching out of rivalry specifically to make his imprisonment harder, and he says he has learned the secret of being content either way.
4 Chapters
To Live Is Christ
Thanksgiving for their partnership from the first day. The imprisonment has advanced the gospel rather than hindered it — even the preaching done out of rivalry. Then the genuine dilemma: to depart, or to remain for their sake.
The Mind of Christ
Count others better than yourselves — grounded in the hymn: emptied, obedient to death, and therefore exalted. Then Timothy, who genuinely cares, and Epaphroditus, who nearly died and is being sent home.
Everything Counted Loss
His own credentials listed in full and written off. Straining forward, not having attained, pressing on — and a warning about those whose god is their belly.
Rejoice
Euodia and Syntyche urged by name to agree. Do not be anxious; the peace that guards. Whatever is true and honourable, think on these things. And the thanks for the gift, carefully worded so it reads as gratitude rather than a request for more.