Today’s author is Prince of Peace member Scott Tunseth.
Philippians 2:6-11 is often called “The Christ Hymn” (the Carmen Christi in Latin). But is it a hymn? And does it pre-date Paul, as many have suggested, or did Paul himself compose it? Let’s start with whether it is truly a hymn. It does seem to be structured like ancient poetry where the lines don’t necessarily rhyme but function like Hebrew poetry in which a new line amplifies the meaning of a previous line. For example, in verse 7:
He emptied himself,
Taking the form of a slave,
Appearing in human likeness.
The hymn or poem divides into three key sections:
+Jesus existed in the form of God (2:6).
+Jesus humbled himself, took the form of a human slave, and died on the cross (2:7-8).
+God has exalted Jesus as Lord (2:9-11).
I can imagine this being sung. But, to me, it feels more like a mini-creed, or confession of faith. Almost all the key elements are there. Jesus is God but came in human form and died on a cross. And Jesus now sits at the right hand of God, exalted in glory. The only thing missing is the resurrection: Jesus was resurrected from the dead. That’s a detail Paul emphasizes in his writings, so that might be one argument that this so-called hymn is not Paul’s writing but rather an early poetic confession he borrowed and dropped it in to amplify his message to the Philippians. Remember in 2:1-4 he calls the Philippians to do nothing from selfish ambition but in humility regard others as better than themselves . . . just as Jesus humbled himself and took the form of a slave, even to the point of dying the most painful and humiliating death on the cross (2:7-8).
It’s a genius piece of writing, an “inspired” little sermon. Jesus showed us what true servanthood looks like. We may not be called to crucifixion, but we are called to humbly look to the needs of others first. Self-lessness vs. selfishness. Humility vs. arrogance. Generosity vs. greed. May this be the song we sing with our lives.
And speaking of hymns, I end with the first verse of one of my favorites:
Lord, whose love in humble service bore the weight of human need,
Who upon the cross forsaken, worked your mercy’s perfect deed.
We, your servants, bring the worship not of voice alone, but heart;
Consecrating to your purpose every gift which you impart.
Amen.