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words are exact when spoken of formula. Wherever we have H2O we must have water, it
"infallibly follows", and as soon as that formula is altered, water "infallibly vanishes".
Now, water exists in three different states, each having distinct and in some cases
opposite characteristics. Water may be solid, liquid or gas--ice, water or steam. Yet
with all the tremendous differences which are observable under these three states, the
formula remains unchanged. Ice is H2O; to become water the external "fashion"
changes, but the "form" remains. Steam, a mighty power, is invisible, yet its "form" is
precisely the same as that of ice and water.
Form and Fashion.
In the immediate context of Phil. 2: the apostle uses a word which means outward
shape or figure when he says, "and being found in fashion as a man". Here the word used
is schema. The constant morphe of water is H2O; its schema (fashion) may be either
solid, liquid or gas.
A.--I remember reading the following in The Berean Expositor in connection with
Phil. 2: 6, 7:--
"Here the `form' of God is seen exchanged for the `form' of a servant."
How do you reconcile this statement with what you have just brought forward?
B.--I do not reconcile these statements. The passage you quote was written in 1913,
eleven years ago. We make no claim to infallibility, but pray for the spirit of wisdom and
revelation, and when this is granted it often couples un-learning together with learning.
There are many items in past volumes that would need altering if re-issued. Every
statement we make is presented to those who will "search and see", proving all things and
holding fast that which is good.
The Lord could exchange the glory of Heaven for the humility of earth, without
touching the form of God.
A.--I understand that if Christ were God, such an expression as "thought it not robbery
to be equal with God" would be superfluous. No one thinks of robbing himself of his
own essential nature. Paul did not say Messiah was "equal with God", but "He reckoned
equality with God not a thing to be grasped after". THE God was self-sufficient.
Messiah reckoned self-sufficiency not a thing to be clutched at. Here Messiah stood
where Satan fell.
(To be continued).