Lutheran Lens Commentary: Philippians 2:5-11 (The Christ Hymn)

Lutheran Lens Reading of Philippians 2:5-11 (The Christ Hymn)

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Philippians 2:5-11 as a profound exposition of the theology of the cross, where Christ's humiliation and exaltation reveal the core of the Gospel. Through this passage, we see the definitive act of grace, where Christ, though in the form of God, took on the form of a servant and was obedient to the point of death on a cross. This is not a moral exemplar but the very means by which our justification is secured. The text powerfully demonstrates the Law through Christ's obedience (exposing our inability) and the Gospel in His exaltation (delivering grace). The passage is a Christological hymn that assures us of our baptismal identity in Him — a death and resurrection reality.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek text, the word 'μορφή' (morphē) meaning 'form' is crucial, as it signifies the essence of Christ's divinity and humanity. The phrase 'ἐκένωσεν' (ekenōsen, 'emptied himself') is pivotal for understanding the kenosis as a voluntary humiliation without divesting divinity. These linguistic choices underscore our view that this is not merely moral instruction but a revelation of Christ's sacrificial work for us — His obedience unto death is our righteousness.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our Lutheran reading of Philippians 2:5-11 emphasizes the theology of the cross over a theology of glory, contrasting with Reformed traditions that might focus more on Christ as a moral exemplar. We reject any interpretation that reduces the passage to ethical imitation without grounding it in the Gospel's promise. Unlike Catholic interpretations that might read this as a call to participate in Christ's sufferings as contributing to salvation, we maintain that Christ's work is complete and sufficient for our justification.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, we should emphasize that Christ's self-emptying and subsequent exaltation are the ultimate acts of grace. Our congregations need to hear that their identity is rooted in what Christ has done, not in their own efforts. This passage assures us of the comfort of the Gospel — that we are justified by faith alone, and our baptism unites us with Christ's death and resurrection. We must resist turning this into a mere call to humility apart from its grounding in the means of grace, proclaiming instead that Christ's obedience is our righteousness, freeing us to serve others in our vocations.

Cross-References: Romans 5:19; 2 Corinthians 8:9; Hebrews 12:2; Isaiah 53:7; John 1:14

Doctrinal Connections: theology of the cross; justification by faith alone; simul justus et peccator; baptismal identity; means of grace