Philippians 2:11 Meaning and Explanation
“And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →All creation will one day speak the same confession: Jesus Christ is Lord, and the Father is glorified in it.
The Context of Philippians 2:11
This is the summit of the great hymn of Christ (verses 6 to 11). Verse 10 said every knee will bow; this verse gives the words every tongue will speak. 'Jesus Christ is Lord' was among the earliest confessions of the first Christians, the shortest summary of their faith.
What Does Philippians 2:11 Mean?
The hymn reaches its high point. Every knee will bow, and every tongue will speak the truth out loud: Jesus Christ is Lord. This was the first and simplest creed of the early church, three words that held everything. The title 'Lord' belongs to God, and here it is given fully to Jesus. The whole arc, from the cross to this crown, ends in quiet, in a clear confession of who He truly is.
And notice where it all lands: to the glory of God the Father. The Son lifted up reveals the Father and draws every eye to Him. When Jesus is honored as Lord, the Father is glorified, for they are perfectly one in purpose and love. The exaltation of the Son is the joy of the Father. To confess Jesus as Lord now is to step into the song that all creation will one day sing.
Philippians 2:11 in the Original Language
kyrios (κύριος), 'Lord' -- master and sovereign, the title used for God Himself.
How to Apply Philippians 2:11 Today
The confession that all creation will one day make is one we are invited to make today: Jesus Christ is Lord. To say it now, with our whole heart, is to be caught up early into the song the universe will sing. And in honoring the Son, we bring glory to the Father who sent Him.
Frequently Asked Questions About Philippians 2:11
What does Philippians 2:11 mean?
All creation will one day speak the same confession: Jesus Christ is Lord, and the Father is glorified in it.
What is the context of Philippians 2:11?
This is the summit of the great hymn of Christ (verses 6 to 11). Verse 10 said every knee will bow; this verse gives the words every tongue will speak. 'Jesus Christ is Lord' was among the earliest confessions of the first Christians, the shortest summary of their faith.
How can I apply Philippians 2:11 today?
The confession that all creation will one day make is one we are invited to make today: Jesus Christ is Lord. To say it now, with our whole heart, is to be caught up early into the song the universe will sing. And in honoring the Son, we bring glory to the Father who sent Him.