Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
Let nothing be done. The italicized words are not in the Greek. Supply the ellipsis from the Greek (Philippians 2:2) х fronountes (G5426)], 'minding nothing in the way of strife' ('factious intrigue,' 'contentiousness,' note, Philippians 1:16). It is the mind or thought which characterizes the action as good or bad before God. Lowliness of mind, х tapeinophrosunee (G5012)]. Its direct relation is to God alone. Sense of dependence of the creature on the Creator as such places all created beings in this respect on a level. The 'lowly of mind,' as to his spiritual life, is independent of men, while sensible of his continual dependence on God. Still, it INDIRECTLY affects his behaviour toward his fellow-men; for, conscious of entire dependence on God for all his abilities, he will not pride himself on them, or exalt self in his conduct toward others (Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 3:12). Neander, 'The thinking lowly of ourselves because we are so.'
Let each esteem - `esteeming each other superior to yourselves х huperechontas (G5242) heauton (G1438)]. Instead of fixing your eyes on those points in which you excel, fix them on those in which your neighbour excels you: this is true "humility" (Romans 12:10; Ephesians 5:21; 1 Peter 5:5).