New Testament
Philippians 2:7
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Instead, he made himself nothing, took on the form of a servant, and was made in human likeness.
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But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
What Philippians 2:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul describes how Jesus chose to humble himself by giving up his divine status and taking on the role of a servant. This act of selflessness is significant because it shows that true greatness comes from serving others rather than seeking power or recognition. By becoming human, Jesus fully identified with our struggles and experiences, demonstrating his love and compassion. This verse emphasizes the importance of humility and the willingness to serve, which are central to the Christian faith. It challenges believers to follow Jesus' example by prioritizing the needs of others and embracing a servant-hearted attitude in their daily lives. The contrast between Jesus' divine nature and his choice to become a servant highlights the depth of his love and the radical nature of his mission on earth.
How to apply Philippians 2:7 to your life
To apply this verse, we should strive to embody humility in our interactions with others. This means putting aside our own desires for recognition and instead focusing on serving those around us. By doing so, we reflect Christ's love and make a positive impact in our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Philippians Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Philippians 2:7
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At a Glance — the Book of Philippians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 61
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Philippi
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Philippians 2:7 mean?
Philippians 2:7 means that Jesus chose to humble himself by giving up his divine status and taking on the role of a servant. This highlights the importance of humility and serving others in the Christian faith.
What is the meaning of 'made himself nothing' in Philippians 2:7?
'Made himself nothing' refers to Jesus willingly relinquishing his divine privileges and status to become human. This act demonstrates his selflessness and commitment to serving humanity.
How does Philippians 2:7 relate to servanthood?
Philippians 2:7 illustrates the concept of servanthood by showing Jesus taking on the form of a servant. It encourages believers to adopt a similar attitude of humility and service in their lives.
What themes are present in Philippians 2:7?
The themes in Philippians 2:7 include humility, servanthood, selflessness, love, and compassion. These themes highlight the significance of serving others and the nature of Jesus' mission.
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