29 Not only will Christians do "the good" (v.28); they will also speak "what is helpful." No unhealthy language will pass through their lips. "Unwholesome" is that which is itself rotten and disseminates rottenness. When joined with "talk", it may signify not simply bad language but malicious gossip and slander; anything that injures others and sparks dissension is covered by this expression. Christians, however, will only say what is calculated to build up the church (Eph 2:21-22; 4:12, 16) by encouraging its members. This is to be done whenever the need arises, so that those who hear may receive a blessing. The ultimate source of all blessing is God himself. The channel may be human, and so even the everyday conversation of Christians may become a means of grace to others.

2:3 Here Paul attempts to correct any misunderstanding that may arise from what he said earlier in the letter about some preaching out of selfish motives (see 1:15, 16). He was concerned that someone might think he was condoning selfish ambition, so long as the gospel was being preached. conceit: Paul uses a Greek term meaning “empty pride,” or “groundless self-esteem.” Pride should not be a Christian’s motivation; instead everything should be done in the power of the Holy Spirit. lowliness of mind: The Greek word suggests a deep sense of humility. Although the pagan writers used the word negatively, in effect to mean abjectness or groveling, Paul did not. What Paul was calling for was an honest evaluation of one’s own nature. Such an evaluation should always lead to a glorification of Christ. let each esteem: This verb indicates a thorough analysis of the facts in order to reach a correct conclusion about the matter. In other words, each Philippian Christian was to properly assess himself or herself. Such an assessment would lead to valuing others. others better than himself: The honest self-examination that Paul was calling for leads to true humility.