Exegesis of Philippians 2:5-11
Philippians 2:5-11 is a profound passage that emphasizes the humility and exaltation of Christ, forming a central theme in the theological and ethical discourse of the letter. This passage serves as both a Christological focus and a model for believers’ attitudes and behavior.
Contextual Background
The Epistle to the Philippians was authored by the Apostle Paul during his imprisonment, likely around A.D. 61. Philippi was a Roman colony, and the church there consisted of a diverse group of believers, including both Jews and Gentiles. Paul wrote the letter to express gratitude for their support, encourage them in their faith, and address concerns about divisions and conflicts within the church community.
In the broader context of Philippians, Paul emphasizes joy in suffering, the value of unity, and a call to live in a manner worthy of the gospel (Philippians 1:27). Philippians 2:5-11 serves as a pivotal section where Paul urges the Philippians to adopt the same mindset as Christ Jesus, highlighting both the theological significance of Christ’s incarnation and the ethical implications for his followers.
Verse-by-Verse Exegesis
Verse 5: “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus.”
Paul begins with a direct command to the Philippians to adopt the mindset of Christ. The phrase “have this mind” indicates a collective unity among believers. It underscores the importance of shared attitudes that align with the example of Jesus. The term “mind” (φρονεῖν, phronein) suggests not merely intellectual agreement but a transformative way of thinking that affects behavior and relationships.
The expression “which is yours in Christ Jesus” indicates that this mindset is accessible to believers through their relationship with Christ. The call to imitate Christ’s attitude encapsulates the moral and ethical exhortation of this passage.
Verses 6-7: “Who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.”
In these verses, Paul begins a beautiful poetic description of Christ’s incarnation. The phrase “though he was in the form of God” (ἰσχύειν, morphe theo) acknowledges Christ’s divine nature. This does not suggest that Christ merely appeared as God but affirms his true essence.
The term “equality with God” refers to the status and dignity that Christ possessed. However, he “did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped.” The Greek word for “grasped” (ἁρπαγμὸν, harpagmon) connotes a sense of clinging or holding onto something fiercely. Here, Paul emphasizes that Christ did not cling to his divine prerogatives or status. Instead, he chose to “empty himself” (ἑαυτὸν ἐκένωσεν, heauton kenosen), which signifies the act of relinquishing divine privileges for the sake of humanity.
The act of “taking the form of a servant” (δοῦλον, doulon) highlights Christ's humility. In ancient society, servitude was viewed as a lowly status, yet Jesus embraced this role completely by being “born in the likeness of men.” This phrase emphasizes the genuine humanity of Christ, making it clear that he was not merely an apparition but fully participated in the human experience.
Verse 8: “And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”
This verse accentuates the climax of Christ’s humility. Being “found in human form” further reinforces the authenticity of Christ’s incarnation, linking him with all humanity. Paul notes that this incarnation led him to “humble himself,” which reflects an active choice toward self-denial.
The phrase “becoming obedient to the point of death” speaks to Christ’s ultimate act of submission to the will of God, even to the most shameful form of execution known at the time—crucifixion. Paul’s readers would recognize the gravity of this obedience, understanding that crucifixion was reserved for the lowest criminals and a socially disgraceful conclusion to any life.
Verses 9-11: “Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
The transitions marked by “therefore” indicate that Christ's humility and obedience naturally lead to divine exaltation. God “highly exalted” Christ, affirming the resurrection and ascension as pivotal events in redemption history. The phrase “the name that is above every name” suggests a new identity as Lord and Messiah, one that surpasses all earthly titles.
The expected outcome of Christ’s exaltation is universal acknowledgment of his lordship. The imagery of “every knee bow” encapsulates a comprehensive recognition of Christ’s authority, involving all realms of existence—heaven, earth, and “under the earth” (a potential reference to the dead). This acknowledgment culminates in the confession of Jesus Christ as Lord, indicating that he occupies the highest place in both heaven and earth.
Finally, the declaration “to the glory of God the Father” highlights the ultimate purpose of Christ's work and exaltation: to bring glory to God. The interconnectedness of the Trinity is evident; the Father’s glory is magnified through the Son’s obedience and subsequent exaltation.
Theological Themes
1. Christological Significance: This passage is one of the richest exegetical sources regarding the nature of Christ. It affirms both the pre-existence of Christ (being in the form of God) and his true humanity (being born in the likeness of men). It reflects profound theological truths about the Incarnation and the dual nature of Christ—fully God and fully man.
2. The Humility of God: The passage invites believers to ponder the depth of divine humility exhibited in Christ. In a world often characterized by self-assertion and pride, the narrative of Christ chooses servanthood and obedience as the highest call is revolutionary.
3. The Call to Imitate Christ: Paul’s exhortation challenges believers to embody the mindset of Christ, one that embraces humility, sacrifice, and obedience. It reframes greatness as a function of service rather than dominance.
4. Universal Lordship: The message of ultimate authority signifies hope and an invitation to submission to Christ. The acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord is a central aspect of Christian faith, encouraging a communal and individual commitment to his lordship.
Ethical Implications
The ethical implications of Philippians 2:5-11 are significant. The call to embody the mindset of Christ carries practical outworking in Christian community life and relationships. It addresses potential divisions within the church and encourages believers to put the needs of others above their own.
This passage acts as a guide in navigating conflicts and fostering unity, reminding Christians that true power lies in servanthood and humility. It invites believers to reflect on their actions, attitudes, and the manner in which they relate to others, mirroring the posture of Christ.
Conclusion
Philippians 2:5-11 encapsulates one of the most profound Christological hymns in the New Testament, underscoring key features of the Christian faith: the humility of Christ, the nature of true obedience, and the significance of communal unity in imitation of Christ’s example. The call to adopt this mindset impacts not only individual believers but the collective identity of the Church as they fulfill their mission in the world. The ultimate exaltation of Christ serves as a reassurance of hope and purpose, encouraging believers to live out the implications of his lordship in their lives.
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