What does Philippians 2 suggest about the nature of Christ?

The concept that Christ "emptied himself" is derived from Philippians 2:7, which states that Jesus took on the form of a servant and was made in human likeness. This passage illustrates the profound theological truth of the Incarnation, where the divine Son of God fully entered into human experience.

By "emptying" himself, it conveys the idea that while Christ retained his divine nature, he voluntarily restricted the independent exercise of his divine attributes and fully embraced humanity. This act of humility demonstrated his willingness to identify with human suffering and weakness, ultimately leading to his sacrificial death. This understanding emphasizes the dual nature of Christ, affirming both his divinity and humanity, which is central to Christian theology.

The other options misinterpret the theological implications of Christ's nature. The notion of him being exclusively divine does not account for his human experience and sacrificial role. The idea that he had no human emotions contradicts biblical narratives that depict him expressing a range of emotions, including compassion and sorrow. Lastly, suggesting he was merely a wise teacher diminishes his identity and mission as the Savior and Redeemer, which is foundational to the Christian faith.