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

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

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Philippians 2:5-11 as a profound Christological hymn that highlights the humility and exaltation of Christ. This passage is a clear affirmation of the deity of Christ and His willingness to humble Himself through the incarnation and crucifixion. We see this as a direct articulation of the substitutionary atonement, where Christ, though equal with God, took on human form and died on the cross for our sins. This passage moves from the humiliation of Christ to His exaltation, affirming His Lordship over all creation.

Key Language Decisions

The original Greek of this passage uses the term 'μορφὴ' (morphe) to describe Christ's nature, indicating His essential form as God, not merely a likeness. The phrase 'ἐκένωσεν' (ekenōsen), meaning 'emptied Himself,' signifies His voluntary renunciation of divine privileges, not His divine nature, which is crucial to our understanding of the incarnation. These language choices affirm the full deity and humanity of Christ, central to our Christological doctrine.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our tradition differs from liberal theological traditions that might interpret this passage as a metaphorical rather than literal account of Christ's deity and incarnation. We affirm the historical reality of Christ's life, death, and resurrection. We also differ from modalist perspectives that deny the distinct persons of the Trinity, as this passage upholds the distinct personhood of Christ while affirming His deity.

Pastoral Application

When preaching this passage, we emphasize the call to humility and servanthood modeled by Christ. We remind our congregation that Christ's atoning sacrifice is central to our salvation, underscoring the necessity of faith in His finished work on the cross. Our sermons encourage believers to live in light of Christ's example, exalting Him as Lord in every aspect of life. We affirm that this passage calls us to worship Christ as the exalted King, who will return in glory.

Cross-References: John 1:14; Colossians 1:15-20; Hebrews 1:3; Isaiah 53:5; Romans 5:8

Doctrinal Connections: Deity of Christ; Substitutionary Atonement; Incarnation; Humiliation and Exaltation of Christ; Lordship of Christ