Consider Others More Important Than Yourself

Philippians 2:3

The central theme and primary goal of All Scripture Advocate posits that our goal should be to understand and apply the sum of Scripture, not some of Scripture.  In other words, we should avoid using one verse of scripture alone (some of Scripture) to define our theology or our way of thinking, unless that verse can be applied in the context of all of Scripture (sum of Scripture). 

HOWEVER, for a number of years now, I've endeavored to consider the sum of Scripture (all verses of the Bible) in the context of one particular verse (some of Scripture). When engaged with believers and unbelievers in conversation or debate about God (or any subject for that matter), rather than listen to refute and criticize their arguments and views, I endeavor to listen to hear and learn in humility, considering them (and their views) to be more important than my own.  This is not to say that I (we) need to agree with those who have opposing views, but I (we) should be able to listen to hear in humility, considering the views of others more important than our own.  Selah.  Who knows, a humble listener may actually learn something in a Philippians 2:3 conversation or debate that change one's view.  

Philippians 2:3 from different versions of the Bible:

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves.  (Berean translation).

Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.  (English Standard)

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. (King James)

Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. (New King James)

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit [through factional motives, or strife], but with [an attitude of] humility [being neither arrogant nor self-righteous], regard others as more important than yourselves. (Amplified)

Don’t be selfish; don’t live to make a good impression on others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself.  (Living Bible)

Do nothing [a]from [b]selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves. (New American Standard)