What does "did not consider equality with God" teach about Jesus' character? Setting the Scene: Paul’s Hymn of Christ Philippians 2:5-7 sets out an early Christian hymn celebrating Jesus’ humility: “Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness.” Our focus is the phrase “did not consider equality with God something to be grasped.” What does that line tell us about Jesus’ character? The Phrase in Focus • “Existing in the form of God” affirms that Jesus already possessed full deity. • “Did not consider” (Greek: hēgeomai) means a deliberate, reasoned judgment. • “Equality with God” (isa theō) states plainly that Jesus shares the divine nature. • “Something to be grasped” (harpagmos) pictures clinging to a right or privilege. Put together: Although truly God, Jesus consciously chose not to clutch His status or exercise it for personal advantage. What It Reveals About Jesus’ Character 1. Humble Self-Denial • He values obedience over prerogative. • Contrast with Adam, who reached for god-likeness (Genesis 3:5-6); Jesus relinquishes rights He already had. 2. Willing Servanthood • He “emptied Himself” (Philippians 2:7)—not losing deity, but laying aside the outward display of glory. • Shows He delights to serve rather than be served (Mark 10:45). 3. Obedient Submission • He submits to the Father’s saving plan (John 6:38). • Equality does not cancel order; the Son joyfully follows the Father’s will. 4. Loving Sacrifice • His choice springs from love for the Father and for us (John 15:13). • By not grasping, He makes room for our rescue (2 Corinthians 8:9). 5. True Greatness Defined • Greatness is measured by giving, not grabbing—He models the ethic He teaches (Matthew 20:26-28). Supporting Passages • John 1:1,14—The Word is God, yet “became flesh.” • Hebrews 2:14—He “shared in their humanity” to destroy death. • John 13:3-5—Knowing His divine origin, He washes feet. • Isaiah 53:2-3—The promised Servant has “no form or majesty” that we should desire Him. Personal Application • Let Christ’s mindset shape our relationships: release status, embrace service. • Trust that lowering ourselves for others never diminishes true worth—God exalts the humble (Philippians 2:9). • Celebrate the security we have because Jesus refused to cling; His open-handed love opened heaven to us. |
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