What does Philippians 2:10 mean?
What is the meaning of Philippians 2:10?

at the name of Jesus

Philippians 2:9 announces that the Father “gave Him the name that is above every name,” so verse 10 begins by spotlighting that matchless name. In Scripture the “name” represents the full authority, character, and saving power of the person.

Acts 4:12 affirms, “There is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”

Ephesians 1:20-21 shows the risen Christ seated “far above every ruler and authority.”

Colossians 3:17 urges believers, “Whatever you do…do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.”

The exalted name of Jesus is therefore the focal point of worship, obedience, and salvation.


every knee should bow

Bowing the knee pictures complete surrender and worship. Isaiah 45:23—quoted in Romans 14:11—declares, “Every knee will bow before Me.” Paul applies that prophecy directly to Jesus, underscoring His full deity.

Revelation 5:13 depicts all creation blessing “Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb.”

Psalm 95:6 invites, “Come, let us bow down in worship.”

The phrase “should bow” carries both the moral obligation and the inevitable certainty that every creature will acknowledge Christ’s lordship, whether now in willing faith or later in compelled recognition.


in heaven

This encompasses all heavenly beings—angels and redeemed saints.

Hebrews 1:6 commands, “Let all God’s angels worship Him.”

Revelation 5:11-12 shows myriads of angels praising the Lamb.

Ephesians 1:21 states that Christ is “far above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.”

In the heavenly realm, worship of Jesus is already continuous and unreserved.


and on earth

Every living person is included—kings, nations, and ordinary people alike.

Matthew 28:18-19 reports Jesus’ claim, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me,” followed by the Great Commission.

Acts 17:30-31 declares that God “commands all people everywhere to repent” because He has appointed Jesus as Judge.

Psalm 22:27 foresees “all the ends of the earth” turning to the Lord.

Earthly resistance does not cancel Christ’s authority; it only postpones the inevitable confession.


and under the earth

This phrase gathers every realm that seems beyond reach—death itself and the demonic world.

Revelation 20:13-14 pictures the dead being raised from the sea, Death, and Hades to face Christ’s judgment.

James 2:19 reminds that even demons believe—and shudder—at His authority.

Colossians 2:15 announces that Jesus “disarmed the powers and authorities, triumphing over them by the cross.”

No corner of the universe, visible or invisible, resists His final supremacy.


summary

Philippians 2:10 reveals the sweeping scope of Christ’s exaltation. The very mention of His name demands universal submission: heavenly beings worship, people on earth are summoned to faith and obedience, and even the realms of death and darkness must acknowledge His victory. The verse calls believers to joyful, wholehearted bowing now, aligning with the worship that will one day resound from every corner of creation.

What historical evidence supports the exaltation of Jesus mentioned in Philippians 2:9?
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