The “Christ Hymn” is core to this letter and sums up in a nutshell what the gospel is, the very thing Paul finds joy in and is willing to die for. This passage depicts the humility of Jesus, His sacrifice, and ultimately His exaltation. The exaltation of Christ as Lord signifies His sovereignty and fulfilment of God’s plan for redemption, which is a source of great joy for all those who place their faith in Him.