Philippians has worked its way into becoming one of my favorite letters in the New Testament. So needless to say, I have consulted and read quite a few commentaries/books on it. It made sense therefore, when I saw Dean Flemming’s book Self-Giving Love, being drawn to it by the title alone, to purchase a copy.
What I appreciated at the very outset of the book is Flemming’s belief that the heart of Philippians is the “V-shaped story narrated in the hymn-like passage in Philippians 2:6-11” (p. 3). This V-shaped story, which is the story of Jesus plunging to the depths of humility through death on a cross only to be exalted by being given the name that is above all names, is in essence the gospel story. But not only is it the gospel message of Jesus “pouring himself out for others,” it is also what “the pattern of our lives” should be. (p. 3). If Christ sacrificially gave of himself out of love for his creation, then should not we as his followers embrace the same attitude and way of service for our neighbors?
Flemming, throughout Self-Giving Love, does well at keeping this V-shaped story central. He alludes to how Paul modeled it by his own sacrificial service and suffering (see Phil. 1:24; 29-30) as well as highlights Paul’s desire for the Philippian church to take on such a way of life themselves . As they held out the word of truth to others (Phil 2:15-16), it would need to consist of more than words. The same is true today. “People are unlikely,” writes Flemming, “to be impressed with our most cherished doctrines, such as justification or sanctification, unless they see that theology lived out in skin and blood. We can never be content to give lip service to our theology unless it is translated into living, breathing biography” (p. 24-25).
Though a short book, its content is weighty and useful for self reflection, thanks to the questions at the end of each chapter. So whether you are fairly familiar with Philippians or are just beginning to study it, I would highly recommend you picking up a copy of Self-Giving Love. I believe it will be a great source of not just acquiring some additional Bible knowledge, but moving you to sacrificially serve your church and neighborhood as you work out what it means to make Jesus known.
Thank you for this book review. As I am currently reading about Philippians in “The Cross-Shaped Life,” I appreciate learning more about following the example of Christ. To continue my study in Philippians, I will explore this book. Thank you.