What does "emptied Himself" in Philippians 2:7 teach about Christ's humility? Grounding the Study in the Text “Rather, He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness.” — Philippians 2:7 What “emptied Himself” Does Not Mean • Christ did not give up His divine nature or cease to be God (John 1:1; Colossians 2:9). • He did not lay aside divine attributes such as omniscience or holiness. • He did not become less than fully divine at any point. What “emptied Himself” Does Mean • He willingly set aside the visible glory and privileges of deity, choosing the lowly pathway of humanity. • He embraced human limitations—hunger, fatigue, sorrow—without surrendering divine identity (Hebrews 2:17). • He accepted the role of a servant, exchanging heaven’s throne for a servant’s towel (John 13:4-5). • He submitted to earthly obedience, even to death on a cross (Philippians 2:8; Isaiah 53:3-5). Layers of Christ’s Humility Highlighted 1. Descent from Sovereign to Servant – 2 Corinthians 8:9 “Though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor.” 2. Identification with the Weak – Hebrews 4:15 “We do not have a high priest unable to sympathize.” 3. Obedience to the Father’s Redemptive Plan – John 6:38 “I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will but the will of Him who sent Me.” 4. Willing Acceptance of the Cross – Mark 10:45 “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Why His Self-Emptying Magnifies Humility • The greater the height, the more startling the descent—no one stands higher than God the Son. • Choosing servant status displays humility uncoerced, freely embraced. • His humility is active, not passive—He “emptied Himself,” not simply “was emptied.” • Every step downward had others in view; humility expressed in sacrificial love. Implications for Daily Discipleship • Lay aside status and entitlement for the good of others (Philippians 2:3-4). • Serve in hidden ways, confident that the Father sees (Matthew 6:4). • Accept costly obedience, trusting God to exalt in His time (Philippians 2:9-11). • Cultivate the same mindset by remembering the gospel daily—grace received propels grace given. Conclusion “Emptied Himself” reveals a Savior who chooses downward mobility so that sinners may be lifted up. The Incarnate Christ showcases humility at its purest, urging believers to walk the same path of self-giving love. |
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