Being
found in human form, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to the point of death, yes, the death of the cross. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave to him the name which is above every name.
Philippians 2:8-9
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.
Meaning:
- Incarnation and Humility:
And being found in human form, he humbled himself: The verses commence by acknowledging the profound humility of Jesus. Despite His divine nature, He willingly took on human form, exemplifying humility in its purest form.
becoming obedient to the point of death, yes, the death of the cross: The extent of Jesus' humility is revealed in His obedience unto death, a death that carried the weight and shame of crucifixion.
- Divine Response to Humility:
Therefore God also highly exalted him: The conjunction "therefore" signifies a consequential response to Jesus' humility and obedience. God's response to genuine humility is exaltation—a divine principle reflected throughout Scripture.
and gave to him the name which is above every name: The exaltation is marked by the bestowal of a name that surpasses all others in significance and authority. This emphasizes the unparalleled status of Jesus.
- Significance:
Humility Leading to Exaltation: These verses encapsulate a profound spiritual principle—the pathway to exaltation often involves humility and obedience. Jesus' voluntary descent to the point of death precedes His ultimate exaltation.
The Supreme Name: The bestowing of a name above every name signifies the unparalleled honor and authority vested in Jesus. His exalted status transcends all titles and positions.
Relevance for Today:
Model of Humility: Philippians 2:8-9 presents Jesus as the ultimate model of humility. Believers today are encouraged to embrace humility in their interactions, relationships, and service.
Hope in Exaltation: The verses offer hope to believers facing challenges, reminding them that exaltation often follows seasons of humility and obedience.
Cross-References:
Hebrews 12:2: "looking to Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising its shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." A parallel passage underscoring Jesus' humility, obedience, and subsequent exaltation.
Matthew 28:18: "Jesus came to them and spoke to them, saying, 'All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth.'" Jesus' exalted position is linked to His authority over all realms, establishing His lordship.
In Our Spiritual Journey: Reflecting on Philippians 2:8-9 prompts introspection. How does Jesus' example of humility inspire our daily lives? In what areas of our journey do we need to embrace humility, trusting in the promise of eventual exaltation?
despair - misery
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible