Biblical Answer

Understanding Kenosis in Philippians 2:5-11

The concept of "kenosis" in Philippians 2:5-11 has been a topic of discussion among scholars and theologians for a long time. The term "kenosis" refers to the idea that Jesus, the Son of God, emptied himself of his divine attributes while he was on earth as a man. This theory suggests that Jesus gave up some of his divine attributes, such as his deity, during his incarnation. However, this view has been questioned by many scholars, who argue that the passage does not support this interpretation.

A Better Understanding of Kenosis

A more accurate understanding of kenosis can be found in the context of Philippians 2:6-7. The phrase "taking the very nature of a servant" can be seen as a circumstantial explanation of the kenosis. This means that Jesus took on the form of a servant, which is a circumstantial explanation of his emptying himself. This understanding is supported by the fact that the phrase is an aorist participle adverbial in function, which suggests that Jesus took on the form of a servant as a circumstantial explanation of his kenosis.

Implications of Kenosis

The concept of kenosis in Philippians 2:5-11 has significant implications for our understanding of the nature of God and the incarnation. If Jesus did not give up his divine attributes during his incarnation, but rather took on the form of a servant, then our understanding of the incarnation is transformed. This means that Jesus' emptying himself was not a subtraction from his divine nature, but rather an addition of human attributes. This understanding is consistent with the biblical teaching that Jesus is fully God and fully man. This understanding also highlights the importance of Jesus' humility and willingness to take on the form of a servant, which is a key aspect of his character and a model for Christian living.