Philippians 2:7 Meaning and Explanation
“But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The One who was equal with God chose to empty Himself, taking the form of a servant and stepping into our humanity.
The Context of Philippians 2:7
This sits in one of the oldest hymns about Christ in the New Testament (verses 6 to 11). Paul quotes it to show the Philippians what humility looks like at its source: God Himself stooping down. The previous verse says Christ was in the form of God; this verse says what He did with that.
What Does Philippians 2:7 Mean?
The picture is staggering. The One who shared the very nature of God let go of His high place, made Himself nothing in the world's eyes, and took the role of a servant. He was truly made in human likeness, with skin and breath and weariness like ours. He did not cling to His glory or hold it over us. He laid it down and came low, all the way down to where we live.
This is the heart of who Jesus is. He did not stay distant and demand that we climb up to Him. He came down to us, taking on flesh so that He could reach us where we are. The God who could have kept His distance chose instead to become a servant for our sake. When we wonder whether God truly understands our smallness, this verse answers: He entered it Himself.
Philippians 2:7 in the Original Language
kenoo (κενόω), 'made of no reputation' -- to empty oneself, to pour out, to make oneself nothing.
How to Apply Philippians 2:7 Today
When we are tempted to grasp at status or guard our reputation, Christ shows us another way entirely. He held the highest place there is and willingly poured Himself out to serve. That He came down so far is the measure of how much we are loved.
Frequently Asked Questions About Philippians 2:7
What does Philippians 2:7 mean?
The One who was equal with God chose to empty Himself, taking the form of a servant and stepping into our humanity.
What is the context of Philippians 2:7?
This sits in one of the oldest hymns about Christ in the New Testament (verses 6 to 11). Paul quotes it to show the Philippians what humility looks like at its source: God Himself stooping down. The previous verse says Christ was in the form of God; this verse says what He did with that.
How can I apply Philippians 2:7 today?
When we are tempted to grasp at status or guard our reputation, Christ shows us another way entirely. He held the highest place there is and willingly poured Himself out to serve. That He came down so far is the measure of how much we are loved.