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But does Philippians 2:7 teach that Christ emptied himself…

“But does Philippians 2:7 teach that Christ emptied himself of some of his divine attributes, and does the rest of the New Testament confirm this? The evidence of Scripture points to a negative answer to both questions. We must first realize that no recognized teacher in the first 1,800 years of…” quote by Wayne A. Grudem
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““But does Philippians 2:7 teach that Christ emptied himself of some of his divine attributes, and does the rest of the New Testament confirm this? The evidence of Scripture points to a negative answer to both questions. We must first realize that no recognized teacher in the first 1,800 years of church history, including those who were native speakers of Greek, thought that “emptied himself” in Philippians 2:7 meant that the Son of God gave up some of his divine attributes. Second, we must recognize that the text does not say that Christ “emptied himself of some powers” or “emptied himself of divine attributes” or anything like that. Third, the text does describe what Jesus did in this “emptying”: he did not do it by giving up any of his attributes but rather by “taking the form of a servant,” that is, by coming to live as a man, and “being found in human form he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross” (Phil. 2:8). Thus, the context itself interprets this “emptying” as equivalent to “humbling himself” and taking on a lowly status and position. Thus, the NIV, instead of translating the phrase, “He emptied himself,” translates it, “but made himself nothing” (Phil. 2:7 NIV). The emptying includes change of role and status, not essential attributes or nature.””

Wayne A. Grudem

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Christ’s “emptying” refers to his humility and incarnation, not loss of divine nature; he retained all attributes while becoming servant.

In simple terms: Jesus humbled himself, not lost divinity.

Key Takeaway

Recognize humility without denying essential identity.

Themes

theology Christology incarnation

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

theological educational

When to use this quote

  • sermons
  • academic study
  • personal faith practice

Key Concepts

humility divine nature scriptural interpretation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does true humility look like in your life?
  • How can you balance reverence and relatability?
A Different Perspective

Emphasis on humility may overlook mystery of divine mystery.

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