“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:9-11
In ancient times, people were given names to describe them. The name of Jesus describes the essence of who He is … “salvation is of the Lord.” There is no other savior or means of salvation. “Gave Him the name which is above every name”: Paul is referring to the Old Testament passage speaking of the divine name Yahweh (Lord).
Note the contrast between Jesus’ placing Himself in a debased status (as true man) with God the Father’s elevation of Jesus to a highly exalted status. On earth Christ was God, but appeared as man; back in heaven, He retained His humanity, but He manifests His prerogatives as God. On earth Christ was crowned with thorns; back in heaven He is crowned with glory and honor.
The phrase “every knee should bow” means that one day all will worship Christ with submission, honor, and reverence. However, only those who put their faith in Him in this life will have an everlasting relationship with Him after death.
“Under the earth” is a figure of speech that refers to the souls of those who have gone not to heaven, but to damnation in the “lower regions”.
“Jesus Christ is Lord” is an early creed. Jesus, who is the Christ, demonstrated Himself to be Lord over all by His nature, life, death, and resurrection. No one is Lord over Him, but He is Lord over all.
“Acknowledge” is a strong, intensive verb Paul uses, which means “agree with” or “say the same thing.” Essentially Paul is saying that everyone will unanimously affirm what God the Father has already stated … that Jesus Christ is Lord!
God’s blessings on your day…