How did he make himself of no reputation? Definition and Context Philippians 2:7 states, “…but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness.” In older English translations, the phrase appears as “made Himself of no reputation.” This concept underscores the humility and self-sacrificial nature of Jesus Christ, who, though fully divine, chose to become fully human. The Greek term often linked to this passage is “kenoo,” suggesting a “self-emptying” or voluntary setting aside of privileges. The question of how He made Himself of no reputation points to the Incarnation and the life He lived on earth. This entry explores the theological, historical, and scriptural aspects of this profound act. Old Testament Foreshadowing The prophetic literature of the Old Testament anticipates the Messiah’s humble advent. Isaiah 53:2–3 illustrates a suffering servant who would have “no stately form or majesty” and be “despised and rejected by men.” This prophecy foreshadows not only the coming of a Deliverer but also the lowly manner in which He would appear. This is consistent with the broader biblical theme of God using what the world deems “foolish” or “weak” (see 1 Corinthians 1:27). The Messiah’s humble station in life—born in a manger (Luke 2:7), raised in Nazareth (John 1:46)—aligns with these prophecies, revealing how He deliberately took on modest means. Incarnational Humility 1. Taking on Human Flesh: John 1:14 says, “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” In choosing to become human, Jesus did not cease to be God. Rather, He subjected Himself to the experiences and limitations of humanity—hunger, thirst, weariness, and temptation—while retaining His divine nature (Hebrews 4:15). 2. Voluntary Limitation: The self-emptying did not mean relinquishing deity but taking on additional humanity. He voluntarily limited the independent use of some divine attributes while on earth (Matthew 24:36). By doing so, He established a pattern of humility for all believers. 3. Identity as a Servant: Philippians 2:7 continues by describing Jesus “taking the form of a servant.” Rather than coming as a ruling monarch, He came as a servant to humanity (Mark 10:45). This servant role is further displayed through acts such as washing the disciples’ feet (John 13:3–5), modeling complete humility and compassion. Life and Ministry Without Earthly Prestige 1. Simple Birth and Upbringing: Born to Mary and Joseph under seemingly ordinary circumstances (Matthew 1:18–25), Jesus’ childhood in Nazareth gave Him no outward prestige (Luke 2:39–40). This simple origin stands in stark contrast to expected royal fanfare. 2. Associating with the Lowly: During His ministry, He chose fishermen, former tax collectors, and others considered socially lower or even disreputable to be His closest disciples (Luke 5:27). Engaging with the poor and marginalized (Matthew 9:10–13) further characterized His “no reputation” posture. 3. Dependent on God, Not Human Recognition: Although He performed miracles and garnered discussions about His identity (Mark 8:27–29), Jesus continuously directed attention to glorifying His Father. He famously warned people not to broadcast certain miracles (Mark 1:43–44) and removed Himself from crowds to pray alone (Luke 5:15–16). These actions demonstrate a continued refusal to seek earthly esteem. Culmination in Suffering and Death 1. Willing Submission: Jesus’ path led to the ultimate act of humility—His sacrificial death on the cross (Philippians 2:8). In the Roman world, crucifixion was the most dishonorable execution method, reserved for criminals and insurrectionists (cf. Josephus, Antiquities 17.10.10). By accepting this ignominious death, He epitomized “making Himself of no reputation,” embracing shame for the sake of others (Hebrews 12:2). 2. Fulfillment of Prophecy: The humiliating nature of the crucifixion event aligns with Isaiah 53, which presents the Messiah as one who suffers and is forsaken. Psalm 22:16–18 also foretells the piercing of hands and feet, the mocking, and the dividing of garments—details corroborated in the Gospels (Matthew 27:35; Mark 15:24). 3. Emptying for Redemption: This “no reputation” status was not merely for moral example; it served a redemptive purpose. 2 Corinthians 8:9 states, “Though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.” His humiliation opened the way to salvation for all who believe. Theological Implications 1. Kenosis (Self-Emptying): The theological term “kenosis” comes directly from the wording in Philippians 2:7. The depth of this self-emptying has been extensively discussed throughout church history, emphasizing that Christ did not abandon His deity but took on humanity in a profound mystery. 2. Model of Humility: Believers are encouraged to imitate Christ’s humility (Philippians 2:5). By setting aside personal “reputation,” Christians are reminded that pride stands in opposition to the spirit of Christ’s incarnation. The selfless posture exemplified by Jesus thus becomes the believer’s pattern for discipleship. 3. Divine Identity Preserved: Even while relinquishing His divine privileges, passages such as John 10:30 confirm Christ’s continued unity with the Father. The earliest manuscripts of the New Testament consistently bear witness to Christ’s divine nature alongside His humanity, as seen in John 1:1–3 and attested by early church fathers, pointing to the reliability of these texts. Historical and Manuscript Evidence 1. Textual Consistency: The phrase “but emptied Himself” in Philippians 2:7 is preserved across ancient manuscripts, including early papyri like P46, which date to around the second century. These documents uphold the authenticity and coherence of Paul’s letter to the Philippians and serve as strong evidence that the theological affirmation of Christ’s humility is original, not a later scribal addition. 2. Early Church Recognition: Church fathers like Polycarp and Ignatius reference Paul’s writings extensively. Their citations confirm that the earliest believers understood and taught this profound humility of Christ as an essential doctrine. 3. Archaeological Corroboration: While direct archaeological evidence of the epistle itself is limited to manuscript discoveries, the historical contexts described in Acts (e.g., the city of Philippi and its Roman colony status) match known archaeological findings related to Philippi’s layout and civic structures (e.g., the forum and possible prison sites). These backdrops further support the cultural and historical reliability of Paul’s occasion for writing. Practical Application 1. Encouragement in Lowly Situations: Knowing that Christ voluntarily took a low position invites believers to seek comfort and purpose when facing humiliation, poverty, or rejection (Hebrews 4:14–16). He identifies with them in every struggle. 2. Servant-Leadership: The model of Christ’s self-emptying redefines leadership as service (Matthew 20:26–28). Leaders are called to forgo self-promotion, instead submitting themselves to God’s will in humble service. 3. Dependence on God’s Timing: Although Jesus is God, He waited on the Father’s timing for revelation, miracles, and ultimately, His path to the cross. This shows believers the importance of reliance on divine guidance rather than seeking quick worldly recognition. Conclusion “How did He make Himself of no reputation?” is answered by observing Christ’s entire earthly existence—beginning with His birth into humble circumstances, extending through His ministry as a servant to all, and culminating in the shame of the cross. By temporarily setting aside the independent exercise of divine privileges, He demonstrated perfect humility. While He remained fully God, He embraced true humanity and modeled trust in the Father, thus accomplishing redemption for humankind. Jesus’ ultimate exaltation (Philippians 2:9–11) confirms that the path of self-emptying leads to glory consistent with His divine identity. In the scope of the Christian faith, this truth stands as a cornerstone, illustrated consistently across reliable manuscripts and supported by Old Testament prophecy, eyewitness testimony, and the historical record of His resurrection. The foundational message is clear: in choosing to have “no reputation,” He made a way for humanity to be reconciled to God. |
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