Philippians 2:5-8 form of God and Aristotelian causes

Philippians 2:5

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KJV: Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

Greek: τουτο γαρ φρονεισθω φρονειτε εν υμιν ο και εν χριστω ιησου

Philippians 2:6

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KJV: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

Greek: ος εν μορφη θεου υπαρχων ουχ αρπαγμον ηγησατο το ειναι ισα θεω

Latin: qui cum in forma Dei esset non rapinam arbitratus est esse se aequalem Deo

Philippians 2:7

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KJV: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

Greek: αλλ αλλα εαυτον εκενωσεν μορφην δουλου λαβων εν ομοιωματι ανθρωπων γενομενος και σχηματι ευρεθεις ως ανθρωπος

Latin: sed semet ipsum exinanivit formam servi accipiens in similitudinem hominum factus et habitu inventus ut homo

Philippians 2:8

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KJV: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Greek: και σχηματι ευρεθεις ως ανθρωπος εταπεινωσεν εταπεινωσεν εαυτον γενομενος υπηκοος μεχρι θανατου θανατου δε σταυρου

Latin: humiliavit semet ipsum factus oboediens usque ad mortem mortem autem crucis

Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: [kjv]

τουτο φρονειτε εν υμιν ο και εν χριστω ιησου [gnt]

2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: [kjv]

ος εν μορφη θεου υπαρχων ουχ αρπαγμον ηγησατο το ειναι ισα θεω [gnt]

… forma … rapinam … aequalem … [v]

2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: [kjv]

αλλα εαυτον εκενωσεν μορφην δουλου λαβων εν ομοιωματι ανθρωπων γενομενος και σχηματι ευρεθεις ως ανθρωπος [gnt]

… formam … factus … inventus … [v]

2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. [kjv]

εταπεινωσενεταπεινωσεν εαυτον γενομενος υπηκοος μεχρι θανατου θανατου δε σταυρου [gnt]

There is a heresy arising from verse 5 because of a specific interpretation of this verse by Arius (256-336, from Alexandria in Egypt).

Jesus is our Lord (King) and Savior (Christ) but showed by example how to be a servant.

Philippians 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: [kjv]

ος εν μορφη θεου υπαρχων ουχ αρπαγμον ηγησατο το ειναι ισα θεω [gnt]

… forma … rapinam … aequalem … [v]

2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: [kjv]

αλλα εαυτον εκενωσεν μορφην δουλου λαβων εν ομοιωματι ανθρωπων γενομενος και σχηματι ευρεθεις ως ανθρωπος [gnt]

… formam … factus … inventus … [v]

2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. [kjv]

εταπεινωσενεταπεινωσεν εαυτον γενομενος υπηκοος μεχρι θανατου θανατου δε σταυρου [gnt]

Philippians 2:6-11 form a famous poem (unknown author, perhaps Paul, but used here by Paul). Paul appears to be using, by analogy, Aristotle's four causes.

The context is that of Paul taking the "bishops" (leadership) to task.

They are doing things they should not be doing.
They are not doing things they should be doing.

Specifically, the following is happening.

Syllogism of Paul plain

Personal "good opinion" or "empty opinion" is being used.
Invalid or contentious "eristic logic" is being used.
[political opinion example]

To insure that this is clear, Paul will return to these ideas again and again in parts of the rest of the letter.

At least, Paul says, Jesus Christ is preached - whether in truth or pretend.

The ancient Greek word "σπλάγχνον" ≈ "bowels, guts" comes from the ancient Greek word "σπλήν" ≈ "spleen" and is the source of the English word "spleen". The word "milt" is the Germanic word for "spleen".
Try saying the corresponding modern Greek word "σπλάγχνο" (SPLAGHKH-no) ≈ "bowels, guts".

In ancient Greek times, the "bowels" or "guts" were the "seat of feelings" or "gut feeling" as today we would call the "heart".

The Greek word for "bowels" has to do with an active "gut feeling" rather than "head knowledge" or, in Greek terms "wisdom".

Philippians 1:8 For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ. [kjv]

μαρτυς γαρ μου ο θεος ως επιποθω παντας υμας εν σπλαγχνοις ιησου χριστου ιησου [gnt]

testis … visceribus … [v]

Jesus	church

prudent	wise
gut feeling	head knowledge
active	passive

The Greek for passive "record" is that of being an active "witness".

The Greek word for "bowels" has to do with an active "gut feeling"or being "prudent" with "street smarts" rather than passive "wisdom" that is "head knowledge".

More: Philippians 1a: A gracious favor of joy to Philippi

Philippians 1:8

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KJV: For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.

Greek: μαρτυς γαρ μου εστιν ο θεος ως επιποθω παντας υμας εν σπλαγχνοις ιησου χριστου ιησου

Latin: testis enim mihi est Deus quomodo cupiam omnes vos in visceribus Christi Iesu

The previous verse is as follows.

Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: [kjv]

τουτο φρονειτε εν υμιν ο και εν χριστω ιησου [gnt]

In reading the verses that follow (the poem) ask yourself how what is said might help having the "prudent" mind of Jesus Christ in yourself instead of trying to make some big theological points for others.

Philippians 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: [kjv]

ος εν μορφη θεου υπαρχων ουχ αρπαγμον ηγησατο το ειναι ισα θεω [gnt]

… forma … rapinam … aequalem … [v]

Arianism denied that Jesus was actually equal to God but rather, was born at a given point in time and therefore, was subordinate to God the Father.

The above verse does not say this, but Arius (256-336) interpreted it that way. Aristotle named this type of logical fallacy "begging the question" which means "assuming the conclusion" as in using "circular reasoning".

This heresy is still prevalent today, though many do not realize that it has a name and originated shortly after the time of Jesus.

More: Trinitarianism and Modalism

There are two primary heresies in almost any group that deviates from the Bible.

1. Deny the deity of Christ as God.
2. Establish a salvation by works doctrine.

Discuss: What is the effect of accepting either or both of these heresies?

Note: Adding traditions to the Bible that do not contradict the Bible has the effect of creating more rules to follow, but may blur the true goal of the Christian believer.

More: A difference of opinion of a heretical group heresy

Some people confuse a "dimension" as a way to look at something with a "mode" as a heresy. For those, each "view" from one side of the box may help.
Does it make any difference in practice if we know the exact nature and inner workings of each aspect of the Trinity?

1 Corinthians 13:12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. [kjv]

Each side uses scripture to justify their view. What do we know?

More: Trinitarianism and Modalism

Arius (256-336) was an early church leader whose ideas were decided to be a heresy. Since his writings were destroyed and what he believed reported by his enemies it is unclear what else he might have taught.

Aryan or Aria or Arya is a term used by a group of people in ancient times in the middle east and that are believed to have brought Hindu religious thought to India. The original word is related to "Iranian".

French racial theorist Arthur Gobineau (1816-1882) promoted the idea that the ancient Aryans, as a racial group, were superior to other groups. These ideas went through some German writers and were adopted by Adolf Hitler for his National Socialist, or Nazi, party.

Philippians 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: [kjv]

ος εν μορφη θεου υπαρχων ουχ αρπαγμον ηγησατο το ειναι ισα θεω [gnt]

… forma … rapinam … aequalem … [v]

Greek and most languages has more than one word for the English word "is". The Greek word used here has the idea of "existence".

The English word "is" has a number of meanings. It depends on what the definition of "is" is. Bill Clinton's grand jury impeachment testimony, 1998.

More: Word and parsing ambiguity

In Greek philosophy, the idea of "being" had several competing meanings argued by various philosophers, theologians, etc.

The "coming into being".
The state of "being".

These Greek and Latin terms include "ousia", "substance", "hypostasis", etc.

Details are left as a future topic.

Here, a different word just meaning "existence" is used.

Philippians 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: [kjv]

ος εν μορφη θεου υπαρχων ουχ αρπαγμον ηγησατο το ειναι ισα θεω [gnt]

… forma … rapinam … aequalem … [v]

Plato	Aristotle

Paul is writing to a Greek audience.

The Platonic idea of "forms", from Plato, was that of a perfect but abstract idea that became realized in some imperfect manifestation.
Aristotle had a more physical manifestation or appearance as in the "form" of something based in "reality".

Paul may be "playing" with both of these ideas, "though" (as in "dough") it may not be a clear "form".

Do not confuse "Plato" with "playdough" or "Play-Doh". Play-Doh is made primarily of water, salt and flour. It is not edible, but, for pragmatic reasons, is not really poisonous (out of the box, all bets are off once mixed with other substances).
The Hasbro "Play-Doh" web site is at https://playdoh.hasbro.com/en-us. (as of 2022-10-15)
There is a learning website named "Playdough to PLATO" at https://www.playdoughtoplato.com/. (as of 2022-10-15)

*G3444 *3 μορφή (mor-fay') : perhaps from the base of G3313 (through the idea of adjustment of parts); shape; figuratively, nature:--form.

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μορφη *2

Mark 16:12 ... he appeared in another form unto two of them, ...
Philippians 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not ...

μορφην

Philippians 2:7 ... himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in ...

*G3445 *1 μορφόω (mor-fo'-o) : from the same as G3444 μορφή; to fashion (figuratively):--form.

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μορφωθη

Galatians 4:19 ... again until Christ be formed in you,

*G4832 *2 συμμορφός (soom-mor-fos') : from G4862 and G3444 μορφή; jointly formed, i.e. (figuratively) similar:--conformed to, fashioned like unto.

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συμμορφους

Romans 8:29 ... he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his ...

συνμορφον

Philippians 3:21 ... that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, ...

*G4833 *1 συμμορφόω (soom-mor-fo'-o) : from G4832 συμμορφός; to render like, i.e. (figuratively) to assimilate:--make conformable unto.

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συνμορφιζομενος

Philippians 3:10 ... of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

For some reason, Paul uses the words with or related to the Greek word for "form" often in Philippians. This ignores "metamorphosis".

Words: μορφη=2 μορφην μορφωθη συμμορφους συνμορφιζομενος συνμορφον

$Circle$ A mathematical "circle" does not exist in the real world. Only approximations exist in reality.
$Dimensions 0 to 3$ Neither do "points", "lines", "planes", "spaces", etc., exist in reality.

Plato considered the mathematical ideas more "real" than what exists in "reality".
Aristotle considered the "reality" of what one sees and senses it the real word important.

Aristotle ponders this reality. Paul builds on Aristotle by telling the Ephesians (in various ways) "there's more" as in "height".

Ephesians 3:18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; [kjv]

εν αγαπη ερριζωμενοι και τεθεμελιωμενοι ινα εξισχυσητε καταλαβεσθαι συν πασιν τοις αγιοις τι το πλατος και μηκος και υψος και βαθος [gnt]

More: Ephesians 3:18 : From lowest depth to highest height

These ideas are reflected in the famous Raphael painting of "The school of Athens" showing (the older) Plato pointing up (to abstract ideas) and (the younger) Aristotle pointing down (to actual reality).

A "Platonic" relationship is abstract and not physical (in reality).

Plato has more of an abstract mathematical outlook whereas Aristotle has more of a pragmatic and concrete engineering outlook.

The difference between engineers and mathematicians can, perhaps, be understood by way of the following story (modified from Paulos, J. (1991). Beyond innumeracy. New York: Vintage Books., p. 81.).

A psychologist is questioning a mathematician and a engineer in the same room. To the engineer, the psychologist asks, "There is a fire on the stove and a glass of water on the table. What do you do?". To which the engineer, without hesitation, replies, "I would take the glass of water on the table and use it to dowse the fire on the stove". The psychologist then asked the mathematician, "The glass of water is now on the window sill. What would you do?". To which the mathematician, without hesitation, replies, "I would take the glass of water on the window sill and move it to the table and in that manner reduce the problem to the previously solved problem".

More: John Allen Paulos

Although mathematics is very important to the computer scientist, there is much more than mathematics to computer science.
Math and engineering

Programming is as much a mathematical discipline as an engineering discipline; correctness is as much our concern as, say, efficiency. Dijkstra, E. (1976). A discipline of programming. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall., p. 54-55.

Edsger Dijkstra (computer scientist)

More: Edsger Dijkstra

Jesus and Paul prefer the more pragmatic and concrete engineering outlook to reality. This is somewhat like the "Aristotelian" approach.

Some prefer the more abstract and out-of-touch with reality ways of (thinking about but not) doing things. This is somewhat like the "Platonic" approach.

Aristotle says that one tends not to reason with things but, rather, with the names of things. In doing so, there is room for deception.

Others prefer the "humanistic" or "opinion" or "good feelings" approach - that of "Protagoras": "man is the measure of all things".

More: Equivocation deception between names and meanings

Philippians 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: [kjv]

ος εν μορφη θεου υπαρχων ουχ αρπαγμον ηγησατο το ειναι ισα θεω [gnt]

… forma … rapinam … aequalem … [v]

The Greek word for "robbery" is that of "snatching up" or otherwise acquiring something, as in "grasping", the "rapture" or "plundering".

More: Matthew 12:26-29 Snatching the raptured goods from the strong man

More: Crying wolf for the search and seizure of the rapture

This particular word is used only once in the GNT (Greek New Testament) - by Paul. This may be another word whose related similar-sounding word is what the "bishops" are actually doing - "robbing" those they are to assist.

*G725 *1 ἁρπαγμός (har-pag-mos') : from G726 ἁρπάζω; plunder (properly concrete):--robbery.

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αρπαγμον

Philippians 2:6 ... of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

*G726 *14 ἁρπάζω (har-pad'-zo) : from a derivative of G138; to seize (in various applications):--catch (away, up), pluck, pull, take (by force).

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αρπασαι *2

Matthew 12:29 Or else how can one enter into ...
Acts 23:10 ... the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among ...

αρπαζει *2

Matthew 13:19 ... then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his ...
John 10:12 ... fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.

αρπαζειν *2

John 6:15 ... come and take him by force, to make ...
John 10:29 ... and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.

αρπαζουσιν

Matthew 11:12 ... and the violent take it by force.

αρπασει

John 10:28 ... perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of ...

ηρπασεν

Acts 8:39 ... the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch ...

αρπαγεντα

2 Corinthians 12:2 ... God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven.

ηρπαγη

2 Corinthians 12:4 How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard ...

αρπαγησομεθα

1 Thessalonians 4:17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them ...

αρπαζοντες

Jude 1:23 ... save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating ...

ηρπασθη

Revelation 12:5 ... and her child was caught up unto God, and ...

Words: αρπαγεντα αρπαγησομεθα αρπαγμον αρπαζει=2 αρπαζειν=2 αρπαζοντες αρπαζουσιν αρπασαι=2 αρπασει ηρπαγη ηρπασεν ηρπασθη

Philippians 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: [kjv]

ος εν μορφη θεου υπαρχων ουχ αρπαγμον ηγησατο το ειναι ισα θεω [gnt]

… forma … rapinam … aequalem … [v]

The ancient Greek word "ἴσος" ≈ "like, similar, as" and is the source of the English prefix "iso".

isomorphism
isotope

The word "equal" here means that of "as" or "similar" or "equal".

=	equals
≈	about

An actual definition of "equal" or "equality", even in mathematics, is not particularly easy, and was a debated idea in Greek philosophy.

There is a saying that "the only constant is change".

This is often attributed to Heraclitus of Ephesus (Ancient Greek philosopher) (from Plato) as "everything changes and nothing remains stil,2l; and you cannot step twice into the same stream."Saying: No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it's not the same river and he's not the same man.

When, exactly, are two things "equal"?

Example paradox: ship of Theseus

What about digital copies? What about military units and soldiers, naval ships and crews, sports teams and players, etc.?

More: Heraclitus of Ephesus

*G2470 *8 ἴσος (ee'-sos) : probably from G1492 (through the idea of seeming); similar (in amount and kind):--+ agree, as much, equal, like.

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ισα *3

Luke 6:34 ... to sinners, to receive as much again.
Philippians 2:6 ... not robbery to be equal with God:
Revelation 21:16 ... the height of it are equal.

ισους

Matthew 20:12 ... and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden ...

ισαι

Mark 14:56 ... their witness agreed not together.

ιση

Mark 14:59 ... their witness agree together.

ισον

John 5:18 ... Father, making himself equal with God.

ισην

Acts 11:17 ... God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, ...

Words: ισα=3 ισαι ιση ισην ισον ισους

In algebra, one learns that equals can always be substituted for equals. This often cannot be done in language translation.

The English word "biff" is onomatopoeic and refers to a "hit" or "strike" on someone.

Puns and play on words are especially susceptible to this problem.
A "biffed" translation, from "Biff" in the movie "Back to the future", is where substituting "equals for equals" results in a loss of meaning . Biff says "Make like a tree and get out of here".

After you eat something from a fallen tree, you might say automate (Autumn ate) it. Fall for Jesus before he leaves.

Italian: "Traduttore, traditore" ≈ "The translator is the traitor".

More: Everything being equal: To biff a translation

John 1:1

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KJV: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

Greek: εν αρχη ην ο λογος και ο λογος ην προς τον θεον και θεος ην ο λογος

John 1:14

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KJV: And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, ) full of grace and truth.

Greek: και ο λογος σαρξ εγενετο και εσκηνωσεν εν ημιν και εθεασαμεθα την δοξαν αυτου δοξαν ως μονογενους παρα πατρος πληρης χαριτος και αληθειας

An understanding of classes and objects is essential to understanding object-oriented concepts.

A class is a general idea of something that relates to a Platonic form. It is a template for how to make instances of objects.
An instance is a specific occurrence of a general idea.
An object is an instance of a class that relates more the Aristotelian form. An object has specific properties, methods, and reacts to or creates events.

More: Classes and objects

A cookie-cutter template is used to create a "cookie object" as an instance of an idea of a cookie - a "cookie class".

A class is a general idea of something that relates to a Platonic form.
An object is an instance of a class that relates more the Aristotelian form.

The Platonic idea of an "empty" class (cookie-cutter) needs to be filled in or "formed" (cookie dough) in order to create an Aristotelian object (cookie to be baked) for a "purpose" or end.

In animated movies, when one sees many similar animals, such as zebras in the movie Madagascar, one of which is "Marty", each zebra is an object created from a general zebra class (as a cookie-cutter template).

More: Classes and objects

Philippians 2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: [kjv]

αλλα εαυτον εκενωσεν μορφην δουλου λαβων εν ομοιωματι ανθρωπων γενομενος και σχηματι ευρεθεις ως ανθρωπος [gnt]

… formam … factus … inventus … [v]

The Greek for "no reputation" is that of "empty form". An "empty form" is like a "hole" as a typed placeholder to be "informed" with something.

The words "form" and "likeness" bring to mind the idea of Platonic forms and Aristotelian reality as found today in the class and object ideas of computer science.

The English word "form" is, through French, from the Latin word "forme" ≈ "form, shape, appearance" which appears to be from the ancient Greek word "μορφή" ≈ "shape, fashion, appearance".

*G4976 *2 σχῆμα (skhay'-mah) : from the alternate of G2192; a figure (as a mode or circumstance), i.e. (by implication) external condition:--fashion.

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σχημα

1 Corinthians 7:31 ... not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away.

σχηματι

Philippians 2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form ...

Philippians 2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. [kjv]

εταπεινωσενεταπεινωσεν εαυτον γενομενος υπηκοος μεχρι θανατου θανατου δε σταυρου [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "σχῆμα" ≈ "form, shape, appearance" and is the source of the English word "schema" as in a "schematic" diagram.

Words: σχημα σχηματι

The modern Greek word "σχήμα" (SKHEE-ma) ≈ "figure, shape".

Philippians 2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. [kjv]

εταπεινωσενεταπεινωσεν εαυτον γενομενος υπηκοος μεχρι θανατου θανατου δε σταυρου [gnt]

2:3 … in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. [kjv]

3:21 Who shall change our vile body… [kjv]

4:12 I know both how to be abased… [kjv]

Paul will use the Greek word for "humble" four times in four chapters in Philippians. This might indicate that some were not being "humble". Note how the KJV (King James Version) uses different words for the same Greek word.

Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less. C.S. Lewis

More: C.S. Lewis

The English phrase "humble pie" comes from medieval "umble pie" as a meat pie of inferior food for lower-class people.
The word "umble" and "humble" are not related other than having a close spelling and sound.

You cannot be "sinless" but you should "sin" less.

Philippians 2:3

All

KJV: Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Greek: μηδεν κατα κατ εριθειαν η μηδε κατα κενοδοξιαν αλλα τη ταπεινοφροσυνη αλληλους ηγουμενοι υπερεχοντας εαυτων

Philippians 3:21

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KJV: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

Greek: ος μετασχηματισει το σωμα της ταπεινωσεως ημων εις το γενεσθαι αυτο συμμορφον συμμορφον τω σωματι της δοξης αυτου κατα την ενεργειαν του δυνασθαι αυτον και υποταξαι εαυτω αυτω τα παντα

Philippians 4:12

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KJV: I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

Greek: οιδα δε και ταπεινουσθαι οιδα και περισσευειν εν παντι και εν πασιν μεμυημαι και χορταζεσθαι και πειναν και περισσευειν και υστερεισθαι

*G5011 *8 ταπεινός (tap-i-nos') : of uncertain derivation; depressed, i.e. (figuratively) humiliated (in circumstances or disposition):--base, cast down, humble, of low degree (estate), lowly.

Usage

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ταπεινος *3

Matthew 11:29 ... I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find ...
2 Corinthians 10:1 ... in presence am base among you, but ...
James 1:9 Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted:

ταπεινοις *3

Romans 12:16 ... high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise ...
James 4:6 ... but giveth grace unto the humble.
1 Peter 5:5 ... and giveth grace to the humble.

ταπεινους *2

Luke 1:52 ... their seats, and exalted them of low degree.
2 Corinthians 7:6 Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by ...

*G5012 *8 ταπεινοφροσύνη (tap-i-nof-ros-oo'-nay) : from a compound of G5011 ταπεινός and the base of G5424; humiliation of mind, i.e. modesty:--humbleness of mind, humility (of mind, loneliness (of mind).

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ταπεινοφροσυνη *3

Philippians 2:3 ... or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem ...
Colossians 2:18 ... of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, ...
Colossians 2:23 ... in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; ...

ταπεινοφροσυνης *2

Acts 20:19 Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, ...
Ephesians 4:2 With all lowliness and meekness, with ...

ταπεινοφροσυνην *2

Colossians 3:12 ... bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
1 Peter 5:5 ... all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth ...

ταπεινοφρονες

1 Peter 3:8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:

*G5013 *14 ταπεινόω (tap-i-no'-o) : from G5011 ταπεινός; to depress; figuratively, to humiliate (in condition or heart):--abase, bring low, humble (self).

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ταπεινωθησεται *4

Matthew 23:12 ... shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
Luke 3:5 ... mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made ...
Luke 14:11 ... exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
Luke 18:14 ... exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

ταπεινωσει *3

Matthew 18:4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this ...
Matthew 23:12 ... shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
2 Corinthians 12:21 ... again, my God will humble me among you, ...

ταπεινων *3

Luke 14:11 ... exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
Luke 18:14 ... exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
2 Corinthians 11:7 Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye ...

ταπεινωθητε *2

James 4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
1 Peter 5:6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, ...

εταπεινωσεν

Philippians 2:8 ... in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient ...

ταπεινουσθαι

Philippians 4:12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: ...

*G5014 *4 ταπείνωσις (tap-i'-no-sis) : from G5013 ταπεινόω; depression (in rank or feeling):--humiliation, be made low, low estate, vile.

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ταπεινωσει *2

Acts 8:33 In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: ...
James 1:10 But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower ...

ταπεινωσιν

Luke 1:48 For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: ...

ταπεινωσεως

Philippians 3:21 Who shall change our vile body, that it ...

Where the "bishops" being humble as Jesus?

Words: εταπεινωσεν ταπεινοις=3 ταπεινος=3 ταπεινους=2 ταπεινουσθαι ταπεινοφρονες ταπεινοφροσυνη=3 ταπεινοφροσυνην=2 ταπεινοφροσυνης=2 ταπεινωθησεται=4 ταπεινωθητε=2 ταπεινων=3 ταπεινωσει=5 ταπεινωσεως ταπεινωσιν

More important than Jesus being God is that man (human nature) wants to be (like a) god (king).
A man's home is his castle. Sir Edward Coke (1604).

God created Adam to be a gardener but he wanted to be a king.

More: Paradise as a garden

In the garden after the resurrection, Mary mistook the King, Jesus, for a gardener.

More: A touchy situation in the garden

Saying: A man's home is his castle. Sir Edward Coke (1604).

Original: "the house of every one is to him as his Castle and Fortress as well for defense against injury and violence, as for his repose".

*G5255 *3 ὑπήκοος (hoop-ay'-ko-os) : from G5219; attentively listening, i.e. (by implication) submissive:--obedient.

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υπηκοοι *2

Acts 7:39 ... fathers would not obey, but thrust him from them, ...
2 Corinthians 2:9 ... of you, whether ye be obedient in all things.

υπηκοος

Philippians 2:8 ... he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even ...

Philippians 2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. [kjv]

εταπεινωσενεταπεινωσεν εαυτον γενομενος υπηκοος μεχρι θανατου θανατου δε σταυρου [gnt]

The Greek word "obedient" means, literally, "listen to" with the Greek implication of "hearing with understanding" with an implication of "doing" or putting that understanding into action.

Words: υπηκοοι=2 υπηκοος

Were the "bishops" being "obedient"?

This brings to mind the song "Trust and obey".

Isaiah 50:10 Who is among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of his servant… let him trust in the name of the LORD… [kjv]

The hymn "Trust and obey" is based on the ideas of "trust" and "obey" from various parts of the Bible.

Presbyterian minister John Sammis (1846-1919) wrote the words to the hymn "Trust and Obey" (with Towner in 1887). Music: Trust and obey

More: Song: Trust and obey

The music to "Trust and obey" is by Daniel Towner (1850-1919) written the year before the words. He later wrote the following for how he got the title.

Mr. Moody [Dwight L.] was conducting a series of meetings in Brockton, Massachusetts [presumably in 1886] and I had the pleasure of singing for him there. One night a young man rose in a testimony meeting and said, "I am not quite sure-but I am going to trust, and I am going to obey." I just jotted that sentence down, and sent it with the little story to the Rev. John H. Sammis, a Presbyterian minister. He wrote the hymn, and the tune was born. -Ira D. Sankey, The Story of the Gospel Hymns, 1906 , from hymnary.org

More: Song: Trust and obey

When we walk with the Lord
in the light of his word,
what a glory he sheds on our way!
While we do his good will,
he abides with us still,
and with all who will trust and obey.

Trust and obey, for there's no other way
to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

But we never can prove
the delights of his love
until all on the altar we lay;
for the favor he shows,
for the joy he bestows,
are for them who will trust and obey.

Trust and obey, for there's no other way
to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

Jesus is our Lord (King) and Savior (Christ) but showed by example how to be a servant.

Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: [kjv]

τουτο φρονειτε εν υμιν ο και εν χριστω ιησου [gnt]

2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: [kjv]

2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: [kjv]

αλλα εαυτον εκενωσεν μορφην δουλου λαβων εν ομοιωματι ανθρωπων γενομενος και σχηματι ευρεθεις ως ανθρωπος [gnt]

… formam … factus … inventus … [v]

2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. [kjv]

εταπεινωσενεταπεινωσεν εαυτον γενομενος υπηκοος μεχρι θανατου θανατου δε σταυρου [gnt]

Discuss: How might these verses relate to the "bishop" issue?

The ancient Greek word "αἰτία" ≈ "cause, reason". Aristotle often used this word as "explanation". Each "cause" is a "why" question. These are briefly summarized here using the Aristotle's example of a "table". The more formal Latin and the less formal English words describing the Greek words are provided.

αίτια	cause	Latin	Informal	table	cooking	computer
ὕλη	matter	material	substance	wood	ingredients	data
εἶδος	form	formal	pattern	design	recipe	code
κινοῦν	movement	efficient	agent	carpentry	making	run
τέλος	end	final	purpose	dining	eating	result

Paul appears to use the four causes in writing to the Philippians. John appears to think in a top-down backward-chaining manner (much as a modern computer scientist). A top-down view of the four causes appears to fit John 1:1-5.

More: John 1:1-5 Four causes in a design and implementation model

In Philippians 3, after covering the futility of "works" and the glory of Christ, Paul marks the "bishops" (leadership) as walking as enemies of Christ. Their "purpose" or "end" is "destruction" , as in the "destruction" of themselves and of those who follow them.

Philippians 3:18 For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: [kjv]

πολλοι γαρ περιπατουσιν ους πολλακις ελεγον υμιν νυν δε και κλαιων λεγω τους εχθρους του σταυρου του χριστου [gnt]

3:19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things. [kjv]

More: Philippians 3:17-19 walk of destruction