But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

PHILIPPIANS 2:7KJV
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Philippians 2:7 (KJV)

What does Philippians 2:7 mean?

Philippians 2:7 describes how Jesus willingly gave up his high status and took on the role of a servant, becoming truly human like everyone else. The verse emphasizes that Jesus did not cling to his divine privileges but chose a humble, self-giving path.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Philippi, encouraging them to have the same humble attitude that Jesus showed. The verse is part of a larger section where Paul highlights Jesus’ humility and self-sacrifice as the ultimate example for believers to follow.

The Greek behind Philippians 2:7

  • The word translated “made himself of no reputation” uses the Greek word κενόω (kenoō), which means “to empty” or “to make nothing.” This suggests Jesus willingly set aside his rights or privileges, not that he stopped being divine.
  • The word for “form” is μορφή (morphē), which means the true nature or essential form of something. By taking the “form of a servant,” Jesus truly became a servant, not just appearing as one.
  • The Greek word for “servant” is δοῦλος (doulos), meaning a slave or bondservant. This highlights how completely Jesus identified with the lowest social position.
  • The phrase “likeness of men” uses the word ὁμοίωμα (homoiōma), meaning “likeness” or “resemblance.” This shows Jesus became genuinely human, sharing in the human experience.

Why Philippians 2:7 matters

  • This verse clears up the misunderstanding that Jesus only appeared to be human or only acted humble; the language stresses that he truly became human and truly served.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage by showing the depth of Jesus’ humility, which Paul holds up as the model for Christian relationships and attitudes.
  • It emphasizes that real greatness, according to Paul, is shown in self-giving and humility, not in holding onto power or status.

Where else these words appear

“form” Greek G3444 · used in 3 verses

  • Mark 16:12 After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country.
  • Philippians 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

“made” Greek G2758 · used in 5 verses

  • Romans 4:14 For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect:
  • 1 Corinthians 1:17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
  • 1 Corinthians 9:15 But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things, that it should be so done unto me: for it were better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void.

“likeness” Greek G3667 · used in 6 verses

  • Romans 1:23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.
  • Romans 5:14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.
  • Romans 8:3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:

“servant” Greek G1401 · used in 119 verses

  • Matthew 8:9 For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
  • Luke 7:10 And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant whole that had been sick.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:21 Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather.