2017, April 9 ~ Isaiah 50:4-9a & Philippians 2:5-11
Isaiah 50:4-9a
The Book of Isaiah is a composite of writings from three distinct periods in Israel’s history. Chapters 1-39 are called “First Isaiah” and were written in the 20 years before Jerusalem was under direct siege by the Assyrians in 701 BCE. “Second Isaiah” is Chapters 40 to 55 and brings hope to the Judeans during the time of the Exile in Babylon (587 to 539 BCE) by telling them they have suffered enough and will return to Jerusalem. “Third Isaiah” is Chapters 56 to 66 and gives encouragement to the Judeans who returned to Jerusalem after the Exile.
Just before today’s reading, the prophet told the Judeans that YHWH has not broken the promises made to them, but their sin is the cause of their suffering and the Exile. The prophet asserts that he is YHWH’s agent to teach (v.4) the Judeans to pursue righteousness. He (sometimes understood as Judea) describes his suffering at the hands of the Babylonians, but because YHWH helps him, he has not been disgraced and will be vindicated (v.7).
Philippians 2:5-11
Philippi was a major city in Macedonia on the Roman road to Byzantium (Istanbul) and most of its inhabitants were Roman citizens. Paul has a deep affection for the Jesus Followers in Philippi, and thanks them for gifts sent to him in prison (4:18).
Today’s reading is derived from a hymn that was already in use in Jesus Follower communities, perhaps in a Baptism liturgy. Its statements are not only religious, they are also political. The Roman Caesars claimed to be “in the form of God” and (as rulers) to be the “Lord.”
By contrast, instead of exploiting his connectedness to God, Jesus took the form of a slave/servant and emptied himself (poured himself out) for others. For this, he has been highly exalted (resurrected). As the Christ/Messiah, he is also called “Lord” and at the name of Jesus, every knee should bend.