Understanding Christ's Humiliation: Question 46 of the Westminster Larger Catechism

The word "humiliation" carries a negative connotation today, often associated with shame or defeat. Yet, in Christian theology, the humiliation of Christ is a glorious doctrine that reveals the depth of God’s love and the heart of the gospel. Question 46 of the Catechism defines this doctrine clearly, urging us to explore not only the historical events of Christ’s life but also their profound spiritual significance for believers today.

What Is the Estate of Christ’s Humiliation?

The Catechism states:

"Q. What was the estate of Christ’s humiliation?"

"A. The estate of Christ’s humiliation was that low condition, wherein he, for our sakes, emptying himself of his glory, took upon him the form of a servant, in his conception and birth, life, death, and after his death, until his resurrection."

This definition captures the voluntary, sacrificial descent of the Son of God to redeem his people. Each stage of Christ’s humiliation—his incarnation, life, death, and burial—demonstrates his infinite love and fulfills God’s covenant of redemption.

The Nature of Christ’s Humiliation

At the heart of Christ’s humiliation is His kenosis, or self-emptying, described in Philippians 2:6-8:

“Though he was in the form of God, [he] did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”

In the incarnation, the eternal Son took on human flesh, entering the world as a vulnerable infant (Luke 1:31-35). This act was not a loss of divinity but a voluntary veiling of his divine glory, submitting to human limitations for our sake. As Christians affirm, Christ’s two natures—fully God and fully man—remained united in one person (hypostatic union), ensuring His work was both divine in power and human in obedience, perfectly fulfilling the law on our behalf (Galatians 4:4-5).

The Context of Servanthood

Christ’s humiliation was marked by servanthood. As 2 Corinthians 8:9 declares, “Though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” Unlike worldly leaders who seek power and status, Christ set aside his divine prerogatives to serve. On the night of His betrayal, He washed His disciples’ feet—a task for the lowest servants (John 13:3-17)—and the next day offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice. This servanthood fulfilled the role of the Suffering Servant (Isaiah 53), bearing the curse of sin to secure salvation for His elect.

Life and Death: The Depth of Humiliation

Christ’s humiliation encompassed His entire earthly life but reached its climax on the cross. He endured rejection, mockery, and unimaginable suffering, culminating in His cry, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). As the sinless Lamb of God, He bore the wrath of God against sin, satisfying divine justice as our substitute (1 Peter 2:24). His death was not defeat but the pinnacle of His obedience, securing redemption for His people (Hebrews 9:12).

Our theology emphasizes that Christ’s humiliation was purposeful, fulfilling the covenant of grace. As Puritan William Taylor noted, “The humiliation of Christ confirmed and ratified the New Testament: his exaltation gives him opportunity to execute his last will and testament.”1 His death paid the penalty for sin, and His burial confirmed the reality of His death, awaiting the triumph of His resurrection (Acts 2:24).

The Call to Discipleship

The doctrine of Christ’s humiliation is not merely historical; it calls us to live transformed lives. Jesus instructs us, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23). In a culture obsessed with self-promotion, Christ’s example of humility challenges us to serve others selflessly. As Reformed Baptists, we recognize that our sanctification flows from union with Christ, empowered by the Spirit to imitate His humility (Romans 6:4).

Practical steps include:

• Practicing Humility: Examine areas where pride hinders service. Serve others in small, intentional ways, reflecting Christ’s heart (Philippians 2:5).

• Embracing Suffering: View trials as opportunities to grow in faith and dependence on God. Share your struggles with your church community to encourage others, trusting that God uses suffering for His glory (James 1:2-4).

  
  

For further reading, my friend Marc’s article on suffering and Christ’s example offers valuable insights.

The Promise of Resurrection

Christ’s humiliation did not end in despair but in victory. His resurrection (Acts 2:24) marks the transition to His exaltation, proving His triumph over sin and death. For believers, this promises our own resurrection and transformation. As Romans 6:4 states, “We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.” In Christ, our brokenness is redeemed, and we are called to live in the hope of eternal glory.

Conclusion: Living in Light of Christ’s Humiliation

The humiliation of Christ is the cornerstone of our salvation, revealing the depth of God’s covenant love and the cost of our redemption. As Baptists, we stand in awe of Christ’s voluntary descent—his incarnation, servanthood, and sacrificial death—knowing it was for us and for our salvation. This doctrine not only assures us of pardon through his atoning work but also transforms how we live. By the Spirit’s power, we are called to emulate Christ’s humility, serve others sacrificially, and rest in the hope of his resurrection. Let us daily take up our cross, trusting that the One who humbled himself will one day return to exalt his people in glory (Philippians 2:9-11).

Soli Deo Gloria

1. Taylor, William. Christ’s Exaltation. Found in Nichols, James. 1981. Puritan Sermons. Vol. 5. Wheaton, IL: Richard Owen Roberts, Publishers. p. 257.