Black Church Tradition Lens Commentary: Philippians 2:5-11 (The Christ Hymn)

Black Church Tradition Lens Reading of Philippians 2:5-11 (The Christ Hymn)

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Philippians 2:5-11 as a profound declaration of Christ's liberating humility and ultimate exaltation. This passage reveals Jesus, the one who, though being in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be exploited. Instead, He emptied Himself, taking on the form of a servant. We see in this the ultimate act of solidarity with the oppressed — a God who steps into the margins and bears the weight of our suffering. Jesus' obedience unto death, even death on a cross, is both an atoning sacrifice and a divine act of liberation, promising that the powers of oppression and death are ultimately defeated by His resurrection. Our hope is that every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, affirming His victory over all systems of injustice.

Key Language Decisions

The Greek term 'kenosis' (ἐκένωσεν), translated as 'emptied himself,' is crucial for our understanding. It signifies Christ's self-emptying love and humility, which we interpret as a divine act of liberation. The phrase 'form of a servant' (μορφὴν δούλου) emphasizes His identification with the lowest in society. This tradition emphasizes the received text's portrayal of Jesus as one who embodies both divine authority and profound humility, challenging systems of power and oppression.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike some traditions that may emphasize Christ's humility primarily as a model for personal piety, we emphasize its liberative power for systemic change. While traditions such as Reformed theology might focus on the sovereignty of God abstractly, we see Christ's exaltation as a promise of justice for the oppressed — God’s sovereignty manifest in history. This difference matters because it highlights our belief in a God who acts decisively for the marginalized, not only as a spiritual truth but as a social reality.

Pastoral Application

Preaching this passage, we affirm that Christ's humility and exaltation call us to a life of active resistance against injustice, mirroring His commitment to the marginalized. Our congregations expect to hear that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead empowers us to confront systems of oppression today. We preach a faith that is not escapist but engaged, where the blood of Jesus covers and empowers us for the fight for freedom and justice. In our worship, we celebrate His victory over death, declaring that no Pharaoh, no system of oppression, will have the last word. We shout with hope, knowing 'trouble don't last always,' and are called to be prophetic witnesses in our communities.

Cross-References: Exodus 3:7-10; Isaiah 53; Luke 4:18-19; 1 Corinthians 1:27-29; Revelation 5:9-10

Doctrinal Connections: liberation theology; the atoning work of the cross; resurrection hope; Spirit-empowered proclamation; holistic salvation