Philippians 2:5-11

Read Philippians 2:5-11

Helpful Background Information:  

• Few passages in all of Scripture capture both the depths of Christ’s humility and the heights of His glory like Philippians 2:5–11. Often called the ‘Christ Hymn,’ this passage was likely a cherished confession or song in the early church, celebrating who Jesus is and what He accomplished. Hence, Paul quotes this well-known song as a reminder to the Philippians. They must be humble and selflessly serve, modeling the ultimate example: Christ Himself.

• For our purposes, Philippians 2:5-11 functions like a theological lens for reading Mark 15:1-20. Although Jesus possessed true divine glory, he did not cling to His rights or privileges. Rather, he emptied Himself. He willingly assumed a servant’s position even to the point of death. The injustice, mockery, and scourging as Mark records are proof of this. However, it was Jesus’ humiliation that paved the way for his exaltation. Jesus, after his resurrection, is now enthroned at the right hand of the Father, reigning over the whole universe. 

• In Mark 15:16-20, we see the soldiers mockingly pay homage to Jesus and bow down to him. Although the soldiers did not know this, they were playing out the future reality Paul writes in Philippians 2:10. There will be a final day when every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that He is Lord. And every means every. 

• Of course, this means believers will do so, and it will be a day of great rejoicing. But this will include those who do not currently acknowledge Christ’s lordship. In anticipation of that final day, we plead with non-believers to bow the knee and confess the lordship of Jesus Christ now in repentance and faith to enjoy God’s salvation, before it is too late. If they do not, they will have no choice but to bow the knee in utter terror as they see that the risen and exalted Christ is not only the true Lord of the universe, but also their righteous judge. Even the most hardened rebels who today mock the name of Jesus and kill His people will have no choice but to bow. 
  

Reflection Questions: 

• Philippians 2 shows that humiliation came before exaltation. How does Christ’s pattern reshape the way you think about suffering, obedience, and faithfulness in your own life?

• Verse 10 declares that one day every knee will bow. How does this future certainty strengthen your confidence when Christ is rejected, ridiculed, or ignored in the world today?

• When you consider that every person, including hardened rebels, will one day confess Jesus as Lord, how should this shape your urgency in evangelism and your compassion for unbelievers?