The kenosis of Christ refers to His self-emptying during the Incarnation, described in Philippians 2:7. It illustrates how Christ, while remaining fully divine. You have to embrace human limitations to fulfill God’s redemptive plan.
What Does Philippians 2:7 Teach About Kenosis?
Philippians 2:7 emphasizes Christ’s humility in taking human form. The apostle Paul writes, “He emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men” (Philippians 2:7, ESV). The Greek word kenóō, meaning “to empty,” forms the basis of the term “kenosis.” It conveys Christ’s voluntary renunciation of divine privileges, not His divine nature. Supporting verses like John 1:14 and Hebrews 2:17 reinforce His full humanity.
How Did Christ Empty Himself While Remaining God?
Christ emptied Himself by veiling His divine glory, not by relinquishing His deity. The kenosis does not imply that Christ ceased to be God. Instead, it reflects His choice to live within human limitations. The hypostatic union—Christ’s dual nature as fully God and fully man—explains this mystery. He retained all divine attributes but operated within human constraints, relying on the Father’s provision and the Holy Spirit’s power (John 5:19, Matthew 12:28).
Why Is Kenosis Central to Christian Theology?
Kenosis reveals Christ’s obedience and humility as essential for salvation. By taking the form of a servant, Christ demonstrated perfect submission to the Father’s will. This humility underpins the atonement, where the fully divine and fully human Christ reconciled humanity to God. Early Church Fathers, such as Athanasius and Augustine, emphasized this doctrine as foundational to understanding the Incarnation and redemption.
Does Kenosis Challenge the Doctrine of Christ’s Deity?
No, kenosis affirms Christ’s deity and humanity within orthodox theology. Some misconceptions suggest that kenosis implies Christ surrendered divine attributes. However, orthodox theology maintains that Christ’s divine nature remained intact. Instead, He temporarily set aside the independent use of His divine privileges. Apologetic responses, rooted in scripture and tradition, address these objections and reaffirm the consistency of kenosis with the doctrine of the Trinity.
How Should the Kenosis of Christ Impact Our Lives?
Kenosis calls us to humility, obedience, and self-sacrifice. Philippians 2:5 urges believers to “have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus.” Christ’s example challenges us to prioritize others over ourselves, serve without seeking recognition, and trust God in all circumstances. Living a kenotic life aligns us with His humility and love.
Comparison Table
| Attribute | Pre-Incarnate State | Incarnate State |
| Omniscience | Unlimited knowledge | Limited human experience |
| Omnipotence | Full divine power | Relied on God’s provision |
| Glory | Divine splendor | Veiled in human form |
| Role | Creator | Servant, Redeemer |
Key Takeaways
- Biblical Foundation: Philippians 2:7 highlights Christ’s humility and obedience.
- Theological Clarity: Kenosis explains Christ’s self-emptying without compromising His divinity.
- Practical Application: Christians are called to emulate Christ’s humility and sacrificial love.
People Also Ask
It refers to Christ’s self-emptying during His Incarnation.
No, He remained fully God while embracing human nature.
Kenosis explains self-emptying; the hypostatic union defines His dual natures.
Discussions often address the nature of Christ’s divine attributes during His earthly life
It encourages humility, obedience, and sacrificial love.