In the spring of 2023, I was presented with a paradigm-shifting understanding of Philippians 2:5-11, which is the famous “Christ Hymn” written, or at least, popularized by the Apostle Paul. In this passage is this statement:

though [Jesus] existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be grasped…

Philippians 2:6 (NRSV)

I always interpreted this statement to say that despite having all the power and priveledge of God, Jesus gave it up. But, the paradigm shift in the spring of 2023 as I worked toward my master’s degree was that Jesus did not give up his power. Rather, his power took on the form of a cross.

In other words, power rightly oriented looks like sacrifice. Thus, the idea to explore humble power was born.

Below are a few resources for the curious. Or, you can follow my Substack page at substack.com/@williamknelsen.

Resources

Humble Church article in EMCC Together magazine (p.8-9)

Book recommendations:

Michael J. Gorman, Inhabiting the Cruciform God

Michael J. Gorman, Cruciformity

Matthew A. Wilcoxen, Divine Humility

John Dickson, Humilitas

Hwa Yung, Leadership or Servanthood?

Henri Nouwen, In the Name of Jesus