Note 1 at Phil. 2:1: The word "if" is used four times in this verse, but these are not really four questions. In the Greek these clauses do not covey doubt but are used for emphasis. The "ifs" could have been translated "since." Since there is consolation in Christsince His love comforts ussince we have fellowship with Him through the Spiritsince our hearts are full of His mercy. Since the Lord has done all these things for us, we should love our fellow believers (v. 2). If God could love us, then we should love each other.

Note 2 at Phil. 2:1: The word "consolation" means "comfort" (New Am. Her. Dict). The NIV translates this word as "encouragement." It is a major understatement to say that we are comforted and encouraged through Christ.