“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: 6Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage; 7rather, He made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death– even death on a cross! 9Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, 10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Phil 2:9-11)

When reading this passage in its context, you notice the contrast between vv. 8-9. In vs. 8, we are told that Jesus humbled Himself, being in the appearance of man, and became obedient unto death. Then in vs. 9, we see that the Father has elevated Him to a highly exalted status. On earth Christ was God, but appeared as a man. Back in heaven, He manifests His prerogatives as Deity. On earth, Christ was crowned with thorns (Matt 27:29); back in Heaven, He is crowned with glory and honor (Rev 5:12-14). God has given Him the name Jesus; that at that name, every knee will bow, and every tongue will affirm what God the Father has already stated (Isa 45:23): that Jesus Christ is Lord.

Paul emphasizes for us how Jesus left incomparable glory in heaven and took the humiliating position of a servant, becoming obedient to death to benefit others (vv. 5-8). Christ’s humility of heart and mind must be found in His followers, who are called to live sacrificially and unselfishly, as we care for others and do good to them. This is the way we will reflect Christ in our lives and exalt Him in the eyes of others.

Let us live a life that will give the glory and praise to our Lord, so that others may see Him and praise Him as well.