What does Philippians 2:6 mean?

Explanation

Philippians 2:6 speaks to the nature and mindset of Jesus Christ in relation to God the Father.

The phrase "being in the form of God" suggests that Jesus possessed the very nature or essence of God.

Despite this divine status, Jesus "thought it not robbery to be equal with God," meaning He did not consider His equality with God something to be used for His own advantage or something to be grasped at and exploited.

Instead, as the subsequent verses explain, Jesus humbled Himself, taking on the nature of a servant and being obedient to death on the cross.

The verse highlights the paradox of the divine becoming humble and serves as a profound statement on the nature of Christ's incarnation and His divine humility.

Historical Context

This verse is part of a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the Christian church in Philippi.

Written around AD 60-62 while Paul was in prison, this letter addressed the congregation's situation, encouraging unity and humility among its members.

Paul used Jesus' example to exhort the Philippians to have the same mindset.

The verse reflects the early Christian understanding of Jesus' divinity and humanity, and it was a significant contribution to the development of Christology in the early church.

Theological Insights

From a Trinitarian Christian perspective, this verse is often cited to affirm the pre-existence of Christ and His divine nature.

It suggests that Jesus, though fully divine, did not cling to His divine privileges but emptied Himself to serve humanity.

This concept is sometimes referred to as the "kenosis" doctrine, from the Greek word for "emptying" used in Philippians 2:7.

Non-Trinitarian groups might interpret this verse differently, focusing on Jesus' role as a subordinate to God the Father and debating the nature of His pre-existence and divinity.

Practical Applications

Philippians 2:6 can inspire individuals to adopt humility and selflessness in their lives, following the example of Jesus.

It suggests a move away from self-centeredness and the pursuit of personal status towards a focus on serving others and valuing community and unity. In modern life, this could manifest in acts of charity, volunteering, and prioritizing others' needs above personal gains.

Cross-References

• John 1:1-3: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
• Colossians 1:15-17: "Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature."
• John 5:18: "Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God."
• Mark 10:45: "For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many."
• Hebrews 1:3: "Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;"

Language Study

The key phrases in the original Greek text of Philippians 2:6 are "μορφῇ θεοῦ" (morphē theou, “in the form of God”) and “ἁρπαγμὸν ἡγήσατο” (harpagmon hēgēsato, “thought it not robbery”). "μορφῇ" (morphē) implies not just the outward appearance but the inherent form or essence of something. "ἁρπαγμὸν" (harpagmon), often translated as "robbery" or "something to be grasped," can mean something seized or considered a prize, suggesting that Jesus did not treat His equality with God as a prize to be held onto at all costs.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of a god taking on human form is present in various ancient myths, such as Greek stories of gods like Zeus or Hermes assuming human appearances.

However, the Christian concept of incarnation as found in Philippians 2:6 is distinct in its assertion of Jesus being fully divine and fully human, and in His refusal to exploit His divinity for personal gain.

This stands out from other mythologies where deities often manipulate their divine status for personal advantage or pleasure.

Scientific Perspectives

Philippians 2:6 pertains to theological and metaphysical claims rather than empirical scientific ones, so it does not intersect directly with scientific understandings.

However, discussions surrounding this verse might engage with questions of consciousness and identity.

For instance, the notion of Jesus having the "form of God" could be a point of discussion in the context of understanding the fundamental nature of personhood from a philosophical or psychological perspective.

Commentaries

Different biblical commentaries offer a range of interpretations on Philippians 2:6. For example:

• The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges suggests that the phrase "thought it not robbery" indicates the absolute deity of Christ, and that His equality with God was not the result of usurpation.
• Matthew Henry's Commentary emphasizes Jesus Christ's humility and His willingness to waive His rights for the sake of others.
• The Pulpit Commentary discusses the Greek term "harpagmos," focusing on the voluntary act of Jesus not clinging to His divine privileges.

Each commentary displays a commitment to unpacking the theological implications of Jesus' identity and His example of humility for believers.