Philippians 2:9

Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

Philippians 2:9 (KJV)

Context

Philippians 2:9 stands at the climax of the Christ Hymn (Philippians 2:5-11), a passage that sets Christ’s humility and exaltation before believers as a pattern to follow. The verse opens with “Wherefore,” linking God’s action directly to what precedes: Christ, though in the form of God, emptied Himself, took the form of a servant, and humbled Himself to death on the cross (Philippians 2:6-8). God’s response is not arbitrary but is the divine reward for Christ’s obedience.

In this context, Paul urges the Philippian believers to have the mind of Christ, considering others better than themselves (Philippians 2:3-4). The exaltation of Jesus therefore becomes both a theological declaration and a practical encouragement: the path of humility leads to honor in God’s timing.

Meaning

The phrase “highly exalted him” means that God the Father raised Jesus to the highest place of honor and authority. This exaltation was not seized by Christ but was bestowed by the Father as the just consequence of His finished work. The “name which is above every name” signifies supreme dignity, power, and sovereignty. It represents Jesus’ divine nature and His authority over all creation, a name that surpasses every other name in heaven and on earth.

This verse also sets the stage for the universal acknowledgment of Jesus’ lordship described in Philippians 2:10-11, where every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. The exaltation of Christ is thus not an end in itself but redounds to the Father’s glory.

Application

For believers, this verse is a call to humility, obedience, and submission to God’s will. Just as Jesus humbled Himself and was exalted, we are encouraged to adopt the same attitude of selflessness. It also points to the lordship of Jesus Christ, calling us to acknowledge and honor Him as the supreme authority in our lives. In our worship, we express love, reverence, and gratitude for His sacrifice, His exaltation, and His reign.

Furthermore, the exalted position of Christ serves as a unifying factor for the Christian community. When believers share a common perspective on the supremacy of Jesus, they are drawn together in unity, maintaining the bond of peace within the body of Christ.

Reflection

Take time to consider: Do we live with the mind of Christ, humbling ourselves in obedience to the Father? The same God who exalted Jesus sees our faithful service and will lift us up in His due time. Let us worship the One whose name is above every name, and let our lives reflect His humility and love.