At
the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, those on earth, and those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Philippians 2:10-11
Philippians 2 [5.] Have this in your mind, which was also in Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, didn’t consider equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, yes, the death of the cross. Therefore God also highly exalted him, and gave to him the name which is above every name; that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, those on earth, and those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Philippians 2 [12.] So then, my beloved, even as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
Meaning:
- Every Knee Should Bow:
The imagery of every knee bowing at the name of Jesus is powerful and symbolic. It represents universal submission and recognition of Jesus' authority. The act of bowing the knee is a gesture of homage, reverence, and acknowledgment of a higher power. This universal bowing includes not only those on earth but also those in heaven and under the earth, signifying the comprehensive scope of Jesus' lordship over all realms.
- Every Tongue Should Confess:
The confession that "Jesus Christ is Lord" is a vocal affirmation of His divine authority and sovereignty. The use of "every tongue" reinforces the inclusivity of this confession—it is a declaration that transcends language, culture, and every conceivable boundary. The confession becomes a unifying expression of faith that echoes throughout the entire created order.
- To the Glory of God the Father:
The ultimate purpose of this universal acknowledgment is "to the glory of God the Father." The exaltation of Jesus is not an end in itself; rather, it magnifies the glory of the Father. It underscores the divine unity within the Trinity—the Father being glorified through the acknowledgment of the Son's lordship. This harmonious relationship within the Godhead is a testament to the divine plan of redemption and reconciliation.
Significance:
Universal Authority of Jesus: Philippians 2:10-11 emphasizes the universal scope of Jesus' authority. It extends beyond earthly boundaries to include heavenly and subterranean realms. This all-encompassing authority reflects the magnitude of Christ's role in the cosmic order.
Symbolism of Bowed Knees: The act of bowing the knee signifies submission, humility, and recognition of a higher power. In this context, it symbolizes the acknowledgment that Jesus is the Lord of all creation, and every creature willingly submits to His authority.
Inclusive Confession: The use of "every tongue" highlights the inclusivity of the confession. It's a proclamation that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, emphasizing the universal nature of the truth that Jesus Christ is Lord.
Trinitarian Harmony: The phrase "to the glory of God the Father" underscores the harmonious relationship within the Trinity. The exaltation of Jesus is not a competition but a synergistic revelation of the divine plan, bringing glory to the Father through the acknowledgment of the Son.
Cross References:
Isaiah 45:23: "I have sworn by myself. The word has gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and will not be revoked, that to me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall take an oath." This Old Testament prophecy finds fulfillment in Philippians 2:10-11, reinforcing the divine consistency of God's plan.
Romans 14:11: "For it is written, 'As I live,' says the Lord, 'to me every knee will bow. Every tongue will confess to God.'" This reference in Romans aligns with the prophetic words in Isaiah and is echoed in the exalted truth presented in Philippians.
In Conclusion: Philippians 2:10-11 paints a cosmic tableau of worship and submission, depicting a moment when every created being acknowledges the lordship of Jesus Christ. It's a vision of unity, harmony, and ultimate glorification of God the Father through the exaltation of His Son.
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible