Philippians 2:6, "who, existing in the form of God, didn’t consider equality with God a thing to be grasped," is a complex and much-debated verse that lies at the heart of the Christ Hymn (Philippians 2:5-11). Understanding its meaning requires careful consideration of its individual parts and its place within the larger context of the passage. Here's a breakdown of the verse and its key interpretations:

Breaking Down the Verse:

"Who, existing in the form of God..."
"Who": This refers to Jesus Christ.
"Existing": This signifies a pre-existence, implying that Jesus existed before his incarnation as a human.
"In the form of God": This is the crucial phrase. "Form" (Greek: morphe) suggests the essential nature, essence, or outward expression of something that accurately represents its inner reality. It's not merely outward appearance but reflects the inherent character. So, Jesus is God in his very essence. This points to Jesus' divine nature.

"...didn't consider equality with God a thing to be grasped..."
"Didn't consider": This implies a deliberate choice.
"Equality with God": This reinforces the idea that Jesus was equal with God the Father. It's not something he was trying to achieve but something he possessed.
"A thing to be grasped": This is the most debated part of the verse. The Greek word for "grasped" (harpagmos) is ambiguous and can be interpreted in a couple of ways:
A treasure to be hoarded or exploited: This interpretation suggests that Jesus, despite possessing equality with God, did not selfishly cling to it for his own benefit. He wasn't consumed with maintaining his status or power.
Something to be seized or obtained by force: This interpretation suggests that Jesus, already possessing equality with God, did not think of grasping or seizing more power or status beyond what he already had. It emphasizes his humility and willingness to set aside divine privilege for the sake of humanity.

Key Interpretations and Theological Implications:

Kenotic Christology: This verse is often used to support the concept of kenosis (from the Greek word kenoo, meaning "to empty"). Kenotic theology suggests that Jesus, in becoming human, voluntarily emptied himself of some of his divine attributes or prerogatives. This isn't to say he ceased to be God, but he limited the exercise of his divine power and glory in order to become fully human and serve humanity.
Humility and Self-Sacrifice: The primary message of the passage is about humility and self-sacrifice. Jesus, despite his divine status, willingly humbled himself by becoming human, living a life of service, and ultimately dying on a cross. This serves as a model for Christian behavior.
Trinity: The verse highlights the relationship between the Father and the Son within the Trinity. Jesus, while equal to God, willingly submits to the Father's will, demonstrating the love and unity within the Godhead.
Incarnation: The verse sets the stage for the incarnation, the central doctrine of Christianity that God became flesh in the person of Jesus Christ.

In summary, Philippians 2:6 means that Jesus, who eternally existed as God, chose not to selfishly hold onto his divine prerogatives, but willingly humbled himself to become human, demonstrating love, obedience, and a perfect example of self-sacrifice. He didn't cling to his equality with God but willingly emptied himself to serve humanity, offering salvation through his death and resurrection.

Why this verse is important:

Illustrates the nature of God: It reveals that God is not just powerful but also loving, humble, and self-sacrificing.
Provides a model for Christian living: It calls believers to imitate Christ's humility and selflessness in their own lives.
Affirms the deity of Christ: It strongly supports the belief that Jesus is God incarnate.
Explains the purpose of the Incarnation: It explains that Jesus became human to redeem humanity and show them the love of God.