Immanuel - Mankato Bible Class
Study of Philippians – Lesson 8
March 4, 2001
Philippians 2:5-11

Introduction:

In the previous section, Paul admonished the Philippians to "…each esteem others better than himself…look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others" (1:3-4). In these following verses, Paul uses our Savior as the perfect example illustrating the "mind" he had encouraged the Philippians to have.

In the process of illustrating his admonition, Paul provides a clear description of Jesus’ humiliation and exaltation. Even though these words provide insight into Jesus’ humiliation/exaltation it is important not to lose sight of verse 5 which states Paul’s purpose for presenting what he does.

This section of Scripture is spiritual "meat" (vs. "milk") and as such it conflicts with human logic and understanding. There have been, therefore, a great many theories and unscriptural conclusions made by a variety of theologians and commentators throughout the years. The scope of the study below does not allow for a consideration of all the errors that have been forced upon this text (passing mention of some of the errors will be made).

Before beginning to study this section it is helpful to remember what Paul’s purpose for writing was. Paul wrote these words to the Philippian Christians for their instruction and encouragement. A Lutheran commentator (F.W. Wenzel) comments appropriately: "…[the Philippians] were not learned commentators and dogmaticians, but were simple Christians. Nor did Paul write his letter for dogmaticians, but for Christians. Had the Philippians been confronted with the task of finding their way through the maze of conflicting opinions on the whole passage, as found in the commentaries, dogmatics, and other treatises, they never would have gained any certainty as to the humiliation and exaltation of Christ." [p.64f]

Philippians 2:5-11 [NKJV]

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Verse 5: Keep on having the attitude in you (pl.) – the one that is also in Christ Jesus.

Verse 6: Who, existing in connection with the form of God, did not consider being equal with God a prize to be held fast.

Verse 7-8: But instead, He emptied Himself by taking the form of a slave being made in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man He lowered himself, becoming obedient/subject as far as death—even the death of a cross!

Verse 9-11: For this reason, God has also super-exalted Him (hyper-exalted) and freely given to Him the name that exceeds every name so that at the name of Jesus every knee of those in heaven should bow, and every knee of those on earth should bow, and every knee of those under the earth should bow; and that every tongue should openly acknowledge that Lord Jesus Christ is to the glory of God the Father.

From our Confessions….

READ 2 Corinthians 8:9, 1 Peter 2:23, Matthew 11:29, John 13:5

{WCE}