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how did greek and roman societies at the time understand ambition and self interest?

Adds the setting and its conversation across both testaments.

Philippians 2:3-4

“Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves; each of you look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

The apostle Paul wrote this letter from prison to the believers in Philippi, a Roman colony, likely in the early 60s CE. He is encouraging them to live in unity and humility, modelling their lives after Jesus.

What does it look like to pursue shared flourishing when your own interests seem to conflict with others?

Then — the setting

Paul wrote this letter from prison, likely in Rome, to the community in Philippi, a significant Roman colony in Macedonia. The Philippians were a diverse group, including both Jewish converts and Gentiles, living within a society deeply shaped by Roman ideals. Greek and Roman cultures at this time generally valued ambition, honor, and public recognition, often achieved through competition. For instance, Roman virtues like *virtus* (manliness, courage, excellence) and *dignitas* (reputation, standing) were often demonstrated through civic achievements, military prowess, and gaining influence. While some Greek philosophers, like the Stoics, emphasized self-control and communal duty, the prevailing societal currents often saw self-interest and the pursuit of glory as legitimate, even necessary, for personal and civic advancement. This passage directly counters such a mindset, promoting a radical self-emptying, others-focused humility.

Across the Testaments

This passage from the New Testament develops themes found in the Old Testament. While the Old Testament doesn't explicitly address 'self-interest' in the same philosophical terms, it consistently calls for justice, care for the vulnerable (e.g., widows, orphans, sojourners), and putting God's covenant and community first (e.g., Deuteronomy 10:18-19, Micah 6:8). The New Testament, particularly through Jesus's teachings and Paul's epistles, intensifies this call to altruism and self-sacrifice, framing it as an imitation of Christ's ultimate act of humility (Philippians 2:5-8). It moves beyond communal obligation to a deeply personal and relational self-giving.

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

Matthew 20:25-28
Jesus teaches his disciples that true leadership is about serving, not dominating.
Romans 12:10
Paul encourages believers to outdo one another in showing honor.
Proverbs 27:2
This proverb suggests the value of praise coming from others, not self-boasting.

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