Philippians 2:10

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth, and [things] under the earth;

That {G2443} at {G1722} the name {G3686} of Jesus {G2424} every {G3956} knee {G1119} should bow {G2578}, of things in heaven {G2032}, and {G2532} things in earth {G1919}, and {G2532} things under the earth {G2709};

that in honor of the name given Yeshua,
every knee will bow —
in heaven, on earth and under the earth —

that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

that in the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven and things on earth and things under the earth,

Commentary

Context of Philippians 2:10

Philippians 2:10 is a pivotal verse within a profound passage often referred to as the "Christ Hymn" (Philippians 2:5-11). This section beautifully articulates the humility, obedience, and ultimate exaltation of Jesus Christ. Paul presents Christ's example of self-emptying (Philippians 2:7) and obedience even unto death on the cross (Philippians 2:8) as a model for believers. Because of this unparalleled humility, God the Father highly exalted Jesus and gave Him a name above every name, leading directly to the declaration in verse 10 of His universal sovereignty.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Universal Lordship of Jesus: This verse emphatically declares the absolute and unchallenged authority of Jesus Christ over all creation. His dominion is not limited to one sphere but extends to every realm of existence.
  • Divine Exaltation and Vindicated Authority: The bowing of every knee is the direct consequence of God the Father's act of exalting Jesus. It signifies the Father's vindication of Christ's perfect obedience and His rightful place as sovereign Lord.
  • Comprehensive Submission: The phrase "of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth" is a comprehensive expression encompassing all beings—angelic hosts, humanity, and even spiritual entities or the departed in the underworld. It leaves no category outside of Christ's eventual dominion.
  • Inescapable Acknowledgment: Whether willingly or unwillingly, every creature will ultimately acknowledge Jesus' supreme authority. This universal homage underscores His ultimate triumph over all powers and principalities.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "at the name of Jesus" is significant. In ancient thought, a "name" represented the person, their character, authority, and essence. Therefore, bowing at the name of Jesus means bowing to His very person and the supreme authority He embodies. The Greek phrase for "every knee should bow" is pasa gonu kamptō (πᾶσα γόνυ κάμπτω), which conveys the idea of complete, universal submission, reverence, and worship. Paul's words here are a direct allusion to Isaiah 45:23, where Yahweh declares that every knee will bow to Him. By applying this same declaration to Jesus, Paul powerfully affirms Jesus' divine identity and co-equality with God.

Practical Application

For believers, Philippians 2:10 offers immense encouragement and a call to worship. Knowing that every knee will ultimately bow to Jesus provides comfort and assurance in His ultimate sovereignty, especially in a world that often seems to defy His rule. It reminds us that our voluntary submission and worship of Jesus now are aligned with the future reality of all creation. This verse also serves as a powerful reminder of the universal accountability that awaits all beings before Christ. Living in light of His supreme Lordship transforms our perspective, inspiring us to live lives that honor Him and to share the good news of His reign, knowing that His kingdom will ultimately prevail (Revelation 5:13).

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Isaiah 45:23 (62 votes)

    I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth [in] righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.

  • Isaiah 45:25 (62 votes)

    In the LORD shall all the seed of Israel be justified, and shall glory.

  • Matthew 28:18 (49 votes)

    And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

  • Revelation 5:13 (31 votes)

    And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, [be] unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

  • Revelation 5:14 (31 votes)

    And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four [and] twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.

  • Hebrews 1:6 (26 votes)

    And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.

  • Romans 14:10 (20 votes)

    But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.