Meaning of Philippians 2:7

Philippians 2:7 describes the profound act of kenosis, a Greek term meaning "self-emptying," which characterizes the incarnation of Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul, in this hymn-like passage, emphasizes that Jesus, despite being divine and possessing all the attributes of God, voluntarily relinquished the outward display of his divine glory and prerogatives. This was not an emptying of his divine nature, but rather a withholding of its full manifestation and a descent into the full experience of human existence, including its limitations and suffering. By "taking the very nature of a servant" and being "made in human likeness," Jesus demonstrated an unparalleled humility and a radical commitment to the will of God and the redemption of humanity.

Context and Background

This verse is part of a larger section in Philippians (2:5-11) where Paul urges the believers in Philippi to exhibit a Christ-like humility and unity within their church. He contrasts the pride and self-assertion that can divide communities with the astonishing self-sacrifice of Jesus. The Philippian church, like many early Christian communities, likely faced internal strife and divisions, possibly stemming from differing views on status, privilege, or theological understanding. Paul uses the example of Christ to provide a corrective and an aspirational model for their conduct. The "hymn" to Christ is thought to be an early Christian creed or song that Paul incorporates to powerfully illustrate his point.

Key Themes and Messages

• Kenosis (Self-emptying): This is the central concept. Jesus did not cease to be God, but he voluntarily set aside the independent use of his divine attributes and the full expression of his divine glory.
• Servanthood: The "nature of a servant" (Greek: doulos, meaning slave) highlights Jesus' complete submission and obedience to God's plan, even to the point of death.
• Incarnation: The verse explicitly states Jesus was "made in human likeness," signifying the divine becoming human, a cornerstone of Christian theology.
• Humility: This passage is a paramount example of humility, demonstrating that true greatness lies not in asserting one's rights or status, but in serving others.

Spiritual Significance and Application

For believers, Philippians 2:7 calls for a radical reorientation of perspective. It challenges the human tendency towards pride, self-aggrandizement, and the pursuit of personal status. Instead, it calls for adopting the "mind of Christ," which is characterized by humility, selfless service, and obedience to God's will. This principle should permeate all aspects of Christian life, from interpersonal relationships within the church to one's engagement with the wider world. It encourages believers to value others above themselves and to find their identity not in worldly achievements or recognition, but in their union with Christ and their participation in his redemptive mission.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse is a pivotal point in the biblical narrative, bridging the Old Testament prophecies of a suffering servant with the New Testament revelation of Jesus' divine identity and redemptive work. It illuminates the purpose of Christ's coming: to reconcile humanity to God through his obedient sacrifice. It underscores God's profound love for humanity, demonstrated by sending his Son to experience the fullness of human life and death. Furthermore, it sets the stage for the resurrection and exaltation of Christ, which Paul discusses in the subsequent verses (Phil 2:9-11), showing that ultimate glory and authority are bestowed upon the one who first humbled himself.

Analogies

• A King Becoming a Soldier: Imagine a benevolent king who, to understand and lead his people effectively, voluntarily lays down his crown and robes to serve as a common soldier in his own army, sharing their hardships and dangers. He remains king, but he chooses to live and act as one of them.
• A Master Chef Washing Dishes: A world-renowned chef, celebrated for his culinary genius, could choose to spend his days in the kitchen washing dishes, not because he is incapable of cooking, but to understand the foundational work and to serve those who do it. His skill remains, but his outward role is one of humble service.
• A Diamond in the Rough: A flawless diamond, possessing immense inherent value, might be encased in rough, unpolished rock. Its brilliance is not diminished, but it is not immediately apparent until the rock is removed and the diamond is revealed. Similarly, Christ's divine nature was present but not ostentatiously displayed in his earthly humanity.

Relation to Other Verses

• John 1:14: "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father full of grace and truth." This verse directly supports the concept of the Incarnation and the veiled glory of Christ, which is alluded to in Philippians 2:7.
• Matthew 20:28: "just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." This verse echoes the servant motif and the sacrificial purpose of Christ's mission, directly aligning with the "nature of a servant" mentioned in Philippians.
• Colossians 1:15-20: This passage describes Christ as the "image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation," and speaks of his reconciling all things through his blood. It complements Philippians 2 by detailing Christ's preeminence and the scope of his redemptive work, which was accomplished through his humble obedience.
• Hebrews 2:14-18: This text speaks of Jesus becoming like his brothers and sisters "in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest" and make atonement. This highlights the purpose of his humanity – to empathize with and save humanity.