------------------------------------------------------- **Cross Reference**: #theology, #Christian_identity, #Kenosis, #incarnation, #humility, #salvation ## Kenosis: Christ's Humility in the Incarnation The doctrine of *[[Kenosis]]*—from the Greek word *ekenosen*, meaning "emptied himself"—is a profound concept central to understanding the humility of [[Christ]] during his [[Incarnation]]. This doctrine teaches that [[Jesus]], while fully divine, voluntarily assumed human nature, subjecting himself to the limitations of humanity without losing his divine essence. Let’s explore how this idea unfolds in Scripture and what it means for us today. ### "The Scriptural Foundation: **[Philippians 2:6–8](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+2.6-8&version=AMP)"** The clearest explanation of *[[Kenosis]]* comes from [Philippians 2:6–8](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+2.6-8&version=AMP), where [[Paul]] writes that [[Christ]], *“though he was in the form of [[God]], did not count equality with [[God]] a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant.”* This passage is believed to be part of an early [[Christian]] hymn, which celebrated [[Christ]]’s humility in becoming human. > “He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross” ([Philippians 2:8](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+2.8&version=AMP)). This act of "emptying" does not mean that [[Jesus]] gave up his divinity. Rather, it speaks of [[Christ]] voluntarily refraining from using the privileges of his divine status. He did not cease to be [[God]], but he took on the limitations of human existence—including suffering and death—out of obedience to the [[Father]] and love for humanity. #### Application: Reflect on how Christ’s humility in becoming human encourages you to live a life of service and humility. How can you "empty" yourself for the sake of others, following Christ’s example? ### "The Form of a Servant: Christ’s Full Humanity" [Romans 8:3](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8.3&version=AMP), [Hebrews 12:2](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+12.2&version=AMP) In his [[Incarnation]], [[Christ]] assumed the "form of a servant" ([Philippians 2:7](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+2.7&version=AMP)), a phrase that emphasizes his complete identification with humanity. [Romans 8:3](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8.3&version=AMP) states that *“[[God]] sent his own [[Son]] in the likeness of sinful flesh.”* Though [[Jesus]] was without sin, he lived as a true human being, experiencing the fullness of human weakness and suffering. > “For the joy set before him, [[Jesus]] endured the cross, despising the shame” ([Hebrews 12:2](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+12.2&version=AMP)). [[Christ]]’s *[[Kenosis]]* involved not just taking on human flesh but also embracing the ultimate form of humility—death on a cross. By taking on human nature, [[Jesus]] lived a life of perfect obedience to the [[Father]], enduring suffering and death. His willingness to die, even a humiliating death by crucifixion, is the ultimate expression of his humility and love for us. #### Application: How does knowing that [[Christ]] experienced human suffering and death help you trust him in your own struggles? Reflect on how his servanthood sets the tone for how you serve others in your life. ### "Kenosis and the Divine Nature: Remaining Fully God" [Colossians 2:9](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians+2.9&version=AMP) One of the critical aspects of the doctrine of *[[Kenosis]]* is that [[Christ]] did not diminish his [[divine nature]] in becoming human. As [Colossians 2:9](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians+2.9&version=AMP) says, *“In him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily.”* The mystery of the [[Incarnation]] is that [[Jesus]] was fully [[God]] and fully man at the same time, without one nature compromising the other. > The *[[Kenosis]]* is not about [[Jesus]] becoming "less" [[God]] but about him adding humanity to his divinity. He chose not to cling to the privileges of divinity for the sake of fulfilling his mission of [[Redemption]]. This truth is essential for our understanding of [[Salvation]]. If [[Jesus]] had ceased to be fully [[God]] during the [[Incarnation]], his [[sacrifice]] would not have had the infinite worth needed to atone for the sins of humanity. His divinity, coupled with his humanity, made him the perfect mediator between [[God]] and mankind. #### Application: How does the fact that [[Jesus]] remained fully divine while on earth deepen your confidence in his ability to save? Reflect on the importance of his divinity in your [[Salvation]] and in your daily walk with him. ### "The Purpose of Kenosis: Salvation Through Humility" [2 Corinthians 8:9](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+8.9&version=AMP), [2 Corinthians 13:4](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+13.4&version=AMP) The ultimate purpose of [[Christ]]’s *[[Kenosis]]* was our [[Salvation]]. [2 Corinthians 8:9](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+8.9&version=AMP) says, *“For you know the grace of our [[Lord Jesus Christ]], that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.”* [[Jesus]]’ humility and willingness to lay aside his divine privileges resulted in our [[Redemption]]. > [[Christ]]’s *[[Kenosis]]* was not just an act of humility; it was the means by which he accomplished our [[Salvation]]. By becoming human, living a perfect life, and dying on the cross, [[Jesus]] made it possible for us to be reconciled to [[God]]. In [2 Corinthians 13:4](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+13.4&version=AMP), [[Paul]] reflects on the paradox of [[Christ]]’s death and resurrection: *“He was crucified in weakness, but lives by the power of [[God]].”* Through his self-emptying, [[Jesus]] entered into human weakness, yet through his resurrection, he demonstrated divine power over [[Sin]] and death. #### Application: How does [[Christ]]’s willingness to become “poor” so that we might become “rich” inspire gratitude in your heart? Reflect on how his [[sacrifice]] motivates you to live sacrificially for others. ### "Kenosis as a Model for Christian Living" [John 3:30](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+3.30&version=AMP) [[Christ]]’s *[[Kenosis]]* serves not only as a theological truth but also as a model for how we are to live. [[John the Baptist]]’s statement, *“He must increase, but I must decrease”* ([John 3:30](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+3.30&version=AMP)), captures the heart of the [[Christian]] life—our call to humility and surrender. Just as [[Christ]] humbled himself, we are called to empty ourselves of pride, self-interest, and the desire for recognition. > The *[[Kenosis]]* of [[Christ]] invites us into a life of self-giving love. It challenges us to put the needs of others before our own and to follow [[Christ]] in a life of humility and service. [[Paul]]’s introduction to the *[[Kenosis]]* passage in [Philippians 2](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+2&version=AMP) sets the tone for this call: *“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in [[Christ Jesus]]”* ([Philippians 2:5](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+2.5&version=AMP)). The mindset of [[Christ]]—humility, obedience, and self-sacrifice—is what should define our relationships with others. #### Application: In what areas of your life can you decrease so that [[Christ]] may increase? Reflect on how the humility of [[Christ]] calls you to live selflessly in your family, church, and community. ### Call to Action: The doctrine of *[[Kenosis]]* is a powerful reminder of the depth of [[Christ]]’s love and humility. Though he was fully divine, he willingly took on human nature, lived as a servant, and died a humiliating death for our sake. This act of humility is both the foundation of our [[Salvation]] and the model for how we are to live as followers of [[Christ]]. > How are you responding to the humility of [[Christ]] in your own life? Are you living in light of his example, and are you allowing his *[[Kenosis]]* to shape how you serve and love others? Take time this week to meditate on the humility of [[Christ]]. Consider how his self-emptying calls you to live a life of sacrificial love and service, putting others before yourself, just as [[Jesus]] did for you.