Today's passage
Today's passage is Philippians 2:5–11, which presents a profound theological reflection on Christ's humility and subsequent exaltation by God.
Philippians 2:5–11 is a passage written by Paul the Apostle to the Christian community in Philippi, found in the New Testament book of Philippians. On a surface level, this passage highlights the humility and exaltation of Jesus Christ. Paul urges the Philippians to adopt the mindset of Christ Jesus, who, despite being "in the form of God," did not cling to equality with God but "made himself of no reputation." He took on "the form of a servant" and was "made in the likeness of men." His humility extended to becoming obedient "unto death, even the death of the cross." Following this, God exalted Jesus, giving him "a name which is above every name," so that "every knee should bow" and "every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord."
The passage delves deeper into the connection between humility and exaltation. It presents the idea that Christ's exaltation is a direct outcome of His humility and obedience. The focus is on the radical notion that true greatness comes from servitude and sacrifice. The text subverts conventional ideas of power and glory by suggesting that humility leads to divine approval. Jesus, who was "in the form of God," chose to humble himself, and this act of lowering himself becomes the means through which He is exalted. This inversion challenges readers to reconsider the nature of greatness, proposing that true exaltation is inseparable from humility.