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

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

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

In the Roman Catholic Lens tradition, we read Philippians 2:5-11 as a profound testament to the Incarnation, where the Son of God took on human flesh, embodying the ultimate humility and obedience. This passage beautifully encapsulates the kenotic love of Christ, who 'emptied himself' (kenosis) and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross. This act of divine self-emptying affirms the sacramental worldview that God sanctifies creation through the Incarnation, a pivotal doctrine that informs our understanding of Christ's presence in the Eucharist and the Church as the Body of Christ. We also see in this hymn a call to imitate Christ's humility and obedience, which is essential for our own sanctification and participation in divine grace.

Key Language Decisions

In the original Greek, the term 'kenosis' (ἐκένωσεν) is central, signifying Christ's self-emptying. This concept is pivotal in our tradition, highlighting the Incarnation as God fully entering into human reality. The phrase 'morphe doulou' (μορφῇ δούλου) meaning 'form of a servant' underscores the radical humility of the Incarnate Word, which we interpret as a model for Christian discipleship and service. Our tradition emphasizes how these terms reveal the depth of Christ's love and the transformative power of his sacrifice, which is re-presented in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our tradition diverges from the Protestant emphasis on 'sola fide' by highlighting the necessity of grace through the sacraments, as seen in Christ's self-emptying which calls us to participate in his life through the Eucharist. Unlike traditions that might downplay the sacramental life, we see the Eucharist as the primary means of encountering and receiving the grace of Christ's kenosis. The emphasis on the communal and sacramental dimensions of salvation sets our interpretation apart from more individualistic readings found in some evangelical traditions.

Pastoral Application

As pastors, we are called to encourage the faithful to embrace the humility and obedience modeled by Christ in this passage. This humility is not just a moral exhortation but a participation in the life of Christ, made possible through the sacraments. In our preaching, we must highlight the Eucharist as the source and summit of Christian life, where we encounter the self-giving love of Christ anew. Our congregation should expect to hear a call to deeper sacramental participation and to live out this kenosis in acts of service and love, reflecting the communal nature of our faith. In this way, we help the faithful see that their lives are a continuation of Christ's presence in the world.

Cross-References: John 1:14, which speaks of the Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us, is foundational for understanding the Incarnation.; Colossians 1:15-20, which elaborates on Christ's preeminence and role in creation, resonates with the themes of divine humility and kenosis.; Hebrews 2:14-15, which highlights Christ's sharing in our humanity to defeat death, complements the themes of Philippians 2.; Isaiah 53:7, the Suffering Servant, prefigures the obedient sacrifice of Christ.; Matthew 26:26-28, the institution of the Eucharist, ties into the sacrificial aspect of Christ's humility and self-giving.

Doctrinal Connections: The Incarnation, as the central mystery of Christ taking on human nature.; The Eucharist, as the Real Presence of Christ and a continuation of his self-giving love.; Christology, particularly the doctrine of Christ's two natures in one Person.; Sanctification, as the call to imitate Christ's humility and obedience.; The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, where the kenosis of Christ is made present.