Philippians 2:7

But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

But {G235} made {G2758} himself {G1438} of no reputation {G2758}, and took upon him {G2983} the form {G3444} of a servant {G1401}, and was made {G1096} in {G1722} the likeness {G3667} of men {G444}:

On the contrary, he emptied himself,
in that he took the form of a slave
by becoming like human beings are.

And when he appeared as a human being,

but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness.

but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men;

Philippians 2:7 (KJV) is a pivotal verse within the profound "Christ Hymn" (Philippians 2:5-11), describing the astounding humility of Jesus Christ. Following His pre-existence and equality with God (Philippians 2:6), this verse details His voluntary condescension to human form and servanthood, laying the foundation for His ultimate exaltation.

Context

This verse is part of a powerful theological and ethical passage in Paul's letter to the Philippians. Paul urges believers to cultivate a mindset of humility and selflessness, mirroring that of Christ Himself. The preceding verses (Philippians 2:3-4) call for unity and putting others before oneself. Philippians 2:5 then introduces the example of Christ, setting the stage for this description of His unparalleled humility, which includes His divine nature and equality with God before His incarnation.

Key Themes

  • Kenosis (Self-Emptying): The phrase "made himself of no reputation" translates the Greek word ekenōsen, from kenoō, meaning "to empty." This does not imply that Jesus emptied Himself of His divine nature or attributes, but rather of His divine prerogatives, glory, and the outward display of His deity. He voluntarily laid aside His rightful status and privileges as God, embracing the limitations and vulnerabilities of human existence.
  • Incarnation: This verse beautifully describes the incarnation—the miraculous act of God becoming man. Jesus, who was fully God, took on full humanity, sharing in our flesh and blood (compare John 1:14).
  • Servanthood: By taking "the form of a servant" (Greek: morphēn doulou), Jesus embraced a life of humble service rather than kingly power. This was not merely an outward appearance, but His very essence and mission. He came not to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). This radical servanthood stands in stark contrast to worldly ambitions.
  • True Humanity: "And was made in the likeness of men" emphasizes His complete and genuine humanity. He was fully human, experiencing life, temptation, and suffering just as we do, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15).

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word ekenōsen for "made himself of no reputation" is central to understanding the concept of kenosis. It implies a voluntary act of self-limitation, not a loss of divinity. The phrase "took upon him the form of a servant" uses morphē, which signifies not just an outward shape, but the essential nature or characteristics. Thus, Jesus truly *became* a servant in His very being and actions, not merely appearing as one. His "likeness of men" (homoiōmati anthrōpōn) confirms His true humanity, distinguishing Him from mere appearance.

Practical Application

Philippians 2:7 offers a profound model for Christian living. Christ's willingness to humble Himself, divest Himself of privileges, and embrace servanthood challenges believers to similarly put aside personal ambition, pride, and self-interest. It calls us to:

  • Embrace Humility: To prioritize others' needs and well-being over our own, following Christ's example of profound humility.
  • Live a Life of Service: To serve God and humanity, understanding that true greatness in God's kingdom is found in humble service, not in worldly power or status.
  • Appreciate Christ's Sacrifice: To deepen our understanding and appreciation for the immense love and sacrifice involved in the incarnation and His journey to the cross (Philippians 2:8), which ultimately led to His glorious exaltation (Philippians 2:9-11).
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:9

    For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

  • Matthew 20:28

    Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

  • John 1:14

    And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

  • Romans 8:3

    For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:

  • Isaiah 53:2

    For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, [there is] no beauty that we should desire him.

  • Isaiah 53:3

    He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were [our] faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

  • Galatians 4:4

    But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,

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