Kenosis, a profound theological concept, looks at the self-emptying love of Christ as depicted in Philippians 2:5-8. Derived from the Greek word “kenosis,” meaning “emptying,” this theme illuminates the voluntary humility of Christ who laid aside His divine privileges to become human. Through Scripture, church history, and theological insights, let’s explore the depth of kenosis and its transformative impact on our lives.
Scriptural Foundations
- Philippians 2:5-8 (ESV) – “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, 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, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” This passage reveals the ultimate act of self-emptying love—Christ’s willingness to relinquish His divine status and take on human form, even to the point of death.
- 2 Corinthians 8:9 (ESV) – “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.” Paul emphasizes Christ’s voluntary impoverishment for our sakes, inviting us into the transformative journey of kenosis.
Church History Insights
- Athanasius (c. 296–373) – “He became what we are that we might become what He is.” Athanasius encapsulated the essence of kenosis, affirming that Christ’s self-emptying leads to our transformation and union with Him.
- Cyril of Alexandria (c. 376–444) – “He assumed humanity that we might become like God.” Cyril expounded on the profound exchange that occurs in kenosis—the divine becoming human so that humanity might participate in the divine.
Theological Reflections
- Thomas Aquinas – “The Son of God became incarnate in order to lead men to a share in the divine life.” Aquinas emphasized that kenosis opens the door for humanity to partake in the divine nature through Christ’s humble sacrifice.
- Dietrich Bonhoeffer – “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.” Bonhoeffer’s words highlight the radical call to self-emptying and surrender in response to Christ’s sacrificial example.
Practical Implications
- Humility and Servanthood: Christ’s example calls us to humble ourselves and serve others, just as He served humanity by emptying Himself. Embrace opportunities to serve, even in the smallest ways.
- Sacrificial Love: Kenosis challenges us to sacrificially love others, prioritizing their well-being above our own comfort and desires. Seek to love selflessly, even when it’s difficult.
- Freedom from Ego: Embrace the freedom that comes from releasing our ego and ambitions, recognizing that our true worth is found in our identity as beloved children of God.
- Transformational Surrender: Allow the Spirit to work in you, transforming your character as you willingly surrender your desires, ambitions, and pride to follow Christ’s path.
Kenosis reveals the depth of Christ’s love as He emptied Himself for our sake, inviting us into a journey of humility, service, and transformation. His emptiness results in our fulness. Apart from his humble sacrifice, we would not know salvation. As those rescued by him who willingly surrendered His divine privileges, we are called to let go of our self-centeredness and embrace sacrificial love. As we live out the implications of kenosis, may our lives reflect the self-emptying love of Christ, drawing us closer to Him and radiating His transformative love to a world in need.