Philippians 2:5-8
Those participating in Christological controversies that followed
the Nicene Council sought to reconcile proper deity and true
humanity in the Person of Jesus Christ, but in doing so, they
often neglected the humanity of Christ. The Reformers did not
solve the problem, but they restored a proper emphasis to Christ’s
humanity. Subsequent to the Reformation, scholars tended to
underplay His deity. Careful attention to the details of
Phil 2:5-8 helps to state as well as the human mind can
comprehend just what the kenosis involved and hence how
His humanity and deity related to each other. He emptied
Himself, taking the form of a servant, and humbled Himself,
becoming obedient to death. He stooped to servanthood and
death with all the sovereign free will of One whose choices
are limited only by His own holy and loving will.
