Bible Discussion Thread

Phillipians 2:5-11

5Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus:

6Who, existing in the form of God,

did not consider equality with God

something to be grasped,a

7but emptied Himself,

taking the form of a servant,

being made in human likeness.

8And being found in appearance as a man,

He humbled Himself

and became obedient to death-

even death on a cross.

9Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place

and gave Him the name above all names,

10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,

in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,

to the glory of God the Father.

I am specifically examining this passage in light of Christ's coexistence with God the Father and also the concept of positional changes in light of His substitutionary atonement and exaltation to rule over the earth as King of Kings; Lord of Lords.

Introduction: As usual; I am "winging it" here-albeit our church recently studied this entire book and currently Sunday school is focusing on Phillippians 1 in a deeper analysis. The overarching point here on having the "mind of Christ" would appear to be thinking on all things that are in Phillipians 4:7-8 that are "true"; "honorable"; etc which also was to reflect Paul's life and teachings as an example. It also should be examined as to being humbled then highly exalted; we suffer for a time then are glorified and in His presence; ruling and reigning with Him. While we suffer on earth; we are also "seated in heavenly places" ( Eph. 2:6).

If we backtrack to the dawn of human history (for those who truly believe that) we don't see any indication at the time of Adam and Eve's creation that there was any plan at work for Christ to actually rule on earth with a rod of iron; conquering his enemies; etc. Of course there was no sin at first and therefore such actions would not be necessary. Nonetheless; in Genesis 3:15 we see the theme of Christ's victory and Satan's end.