Kenoticism
In one sentence
Christological models explaining the incarnation through a distinctive self-limitation of the Son in relation to Philippians 2:7.
In simple terms
Kenoticism explains the incarnation through the Son’s voluntary “self-emptying,” with different versions disagreeing over what exactly was limited.
Biblical truth
Philippians 2 says Christ emptied himself by taking the form of a servant; Scripture also continues to attribute true deity and true humanity to him.
Key Scriptures
Phil. 2:5–8 · John 1:1,14 · Col. 1:19 · Col. 2:9 · Heb. 2:14–18
Example
One version speaks of limiting the independent use of divine attributes; a more radical version speaks of relinquishing some attributes, which is far more controversial.
Who holds it
Various nineteenth- and twentieth-century Protestant theologians and some modern evangelical writers in moderated forms.
Not to be confused with
Not to be confused with the biblical language of kenosis itself; the debate is over what “emptied himself” means.
History
Kenotic theories developed especially in the nineteenth century as attempts to explain the reality of Jesus’ human limitations.
Main point of debate
The key question is whether the eternal Son can limit the exercise—or even possession—of divine attributes while remaining fully God.