Biblical Answer

The concept of 'kenosis' in Philippians 2:5-11 is a complex and debated topic in Christian theology. The term kenosis refers to the idea that Jesus Christ emptied himself of his divine attributes or powers during his incarnation. This view is often associated with the traditional understanding of Philippians 2:7, which reads: "but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men." However, some scholars argue that this view is not supported by the text and that the concept of kenosis should be understood in a different way.

One of the main arguments against the traditional understanding of kenosis is that it would imply that Jesus Christ gave up his deity or divinity during his incarnation. This view is problematic because it would suggest that Jesus was not fully God during his earthly ministry. In contrast, a more nuanced understanding of kenosis suggests that Jesus did not empty himself of his divine attributes, but rather took on a servant's form and emptied himself of his divine privileges. This view is supported by the phrase "taking the form of a servant" in Philippians 2:7, which suggests that Jesus took on a new role or form, rather than giving up his divine nature.

A more accurate understanding of kenosis is that it refers to the idea that Jesus Christ took on a human nature and form, while remaining fully divine. This view is supported by the concept of the hypostatic union, which refers to the union of the divine and human natures in Christ. The idea is that Jesus Christ was fully God and fully man, and that he took on a human form and nature during his incarnation. This understanding of kenosis is more consistent with the biblical teaching on the person of Christ and the nature of his incarnation. It also provides a more nuanced and accurate understanding of the concept of kenosis, which is often misunderstood or misinterpreted in Christian theology.