The humility of Christ is a profound and central theme in Christian theology, reflecting the character and mission of Jesus as depicted in the New Testament. This humility is not merely an aspect of His earthly life but is intrinsic to His divine nature and redemptive work.

Incarnation and Birth

The humility of Christ is first evident in the Incarnation, where the eternal Son of God took on human flesh. Philippians 2:6-7 states, "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." This self-emptying, or kenosis, signifies Christ's willingness to relinquish His divine privileges to become fully human, born in a lowly manger in Bethlehem (Luke 2:7).

Life and Ministry

Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus exemplified humility in His interactions and teachings. He associated with the marginalized and sinners, demonstrating that His mission was to serve rather than to be served. In Matthew 11:29 , Jesus invites, "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." His humility is further illustrated in His washing of the disciples' feet, an act of servitude that He performed to set an example of love and humility (John 13:14-15).

Teachings on Humility

Christ's teachings consistently emphasized humility as a virtue. In the Beatitudes, He declares, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:3). He also taught that "whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:4). These teachings underscore the value of humility in the eyes of God and its necessity for true discipleship.

Passion and Crucifixion

The ultimate expression of Christ's humility is found in His passion and crucifixion. Philippians 2:8 states, "And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." This act of obedience and sacrifice was the culmination of His humble submission to the Father's will, providing the means for humanity's redemption.

Resurrection and Exaltation

While Christ's humility is most vividly displayed in His suffering and death, it is also integral to His resurrection and exaltation. Philippians 2:9-11 continues, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, 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." This exaltation is a divine affirmation of the humility and obedience of Christ, serving as a model for believers.

Christ as the Model of Humility

The humility of Christ serves as the ultimate example for Christians. Believers are called to emulate His humility in their own lives, as instructed in Philippians 2:3-5 : "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus." This call to humility is foundational to Christian ethics and community life, reflecting the transformative power of Christ's example.