INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. A Mind of Submission
2. A Mind of Sacrifice
3. A Mind of Serenity
E. Remarks.
1. Today we are going to be discussing the mind of Christ. The beloved apostle Paul encourages the saints at Philippi to: “If there be therefore in a consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each (esteemeth others) better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others,” Philippians 2:1-4. If there is something that we ought to be encouraging the church today, it is that it should cultivate; and maintain the mind of Christ.
2. First, we will investigate the mind of Christ, which was one of submission. Paul states: “Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men," Philippians 2:6-7.
3. Second, we will consider the mind of Christ as an obedient sacrifice, even the death of the cross. Notice Paul: “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross,” Philippians 2:8.
4. Finally, we will address the mind of serenity (patience) of Christ. Paul says: “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father,” Philippians 2:9-11.
BODY OF LESSON
I A MIND OF SUBMISSION
A. Christ’s preexistence. In our first point, Paul speaks to Christ’s pre-existence; and mind of submission. Paul wrote: “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who being in the form of God: thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself; and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross,” Philippians 2:5-8. It is important for us, to understand clearly the preexistence of Christ, before his incarnation.
B. First, Christ’s submission unto the will of the Father. Let’s hear how He speaks of it: “Jesus answered them, and said, my doctrine is not mine but his that sent me. If any man will do his will he shall know of the doctrine, whether it is of God, or whether I speak of myself. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him,” John 7:16-18.
C. Further, Jesus hath glorified the Father. Notice how He states this: “I have glorified thee on earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest his me to do. And now, O Father; glorified thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with the before the world was... And the glory which thou gavest me I have given unto them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I and them, and thou in me that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and has love them as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am: that they may behold my glory which thou has given me: for thou hast loved me before the foundation of the world,” John 17:4-5; John 17:22-24.
D. Paul speaks of His pre-existence. Paul says: “Who being in the form of God: thought it not robbery to be equal with God,” Philippians 2:6. Paul outlines the divinity of Christ before his incarnation and manifestation to the world. Because this text is so rich in Jesus’ pre-existence, it is important that we attend to each statement that Paul makes regarding Him. Notice:
1. He who being in the form of God. Paul states that Christ was in the very “form of God”; before his appearance on earth, and during his walk among us. He was God in the flesh. Notice:
a. First, the word “Who being” in Gr: is hypárcho, or hoop-ar'-kho; which means to exist beforehand or previously. It denotes, an existence or condition both previous to the circumstances mentioned and continuing after; referring to the deity of Christ, which existed prior to his incarnation and continued at, and after, his birth (and earthly manifestation to the world); and continues NOW and forever.
b. Further, Paul declares the form of Christ. The word “form” in Gr: is morph? or mor-fay'; which means the shape; figuratively, the nature:—form. This is the form by which a person or thing strikes the vision; or, an external appearance, Philippians 2:6-7. His appearance was that of divinity or the “divine nature,” that is, God.
c. Finally, Paul states that this form, He willing “emptied himself of” to appear in flesh as a mortal man; though, still retaining inwardly His eternal nature and that was God.
2. The apostle John speaks to His pre-existence, as “the Word.” This is the same Word, which spake at the beginning, “Let there be light, and there was light,” Genesis 1:3. Notice John:
a. First, His existence in the beginning. He wrote: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made,” John 1:1-3.
b. Further, He was made flesh, or became flesh. Notice John: “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the father,) full of grace and truth,” John 1:14. One translation puts it as such: “He pitched His tent among us” and dwelt with us for a spell (a short time)!
c. Finally, John speaks of Him as the Great I AM.
1) Recall Jesus declared Himself to be the “I AM” who was before Abraham, as he spoke unto the Jewish leaders in, John 8:58.
2) Jehovah’s appearance to Moses, at the burning bush. Moses asks who should he tell the children of Israel it is that has sent him: “And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and He said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you,” Exodus 3:14. Jesus declares Himself to be that, “I AM” that spoke to Moses at the “burning bush,” John 8:58.
3) Jesus was; and is that “I AM” of both the Old and New Testaments.
d. Lastly, Peter wrote: “We... were made eyewitnesses of His Majesty. For He received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to Him from the Excellent glory, this is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased,” 2 Peter 1:16-18; Matthew 17:5.
3. He is equal with God. Jesus Christ is equal with God. The Apostle John wrote:
a. First, Jesus declared Himself to be God. Notice: “But Jesus answered them (the Pharisees), my Father worketh hitherto, and I work. Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the Sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God,” John 5:17-18; John 10:33.
b. Further, Jesus affirms, I and my Father are one. Jesus said: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life... My Father, which is greater than all: ... I and my Father are one,” John 10:27-30; John 17:22-23.
c. Finally, Philip’s inquiry and Thomas’ declaration.
1) Philip’s inquiry to Jesus: “Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus said unto him: Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayeth thou then, show us the Father?” John 14:8-9. Jesus is: “Who being in the brightness of his glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when he hath by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high,” Hebrews 1:3. We will return to this idea later in the lesson.
2) Thomas’ declaration to Jesus: “And Thomas answered and said unto him, my Lord and my God,” John 20:28. Yes, this was the same Thomas, who at first denied His resurrection: but, now acknowledges His deity, “as Lord and God.”
E. Paul defends the divinity of Christ. He writes to the saints:
1. The Colossians: “And he (Christ) is before all things, and by Him all things consist,” Colossians 1:18.
2. The Ephesians: “God, who created all things in Jesus Christ,” Ephesians 3:9. This same statement was presented by John on the Isle of Patmos. John wrote: “These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God,” Revelations 3:14; Revelations 1:5.
a. Christ is the originator and beginning of the entire creation of God. Unlike many today; Christ is not a creation of God; but the originator of the entire creation of God.
b. Hear David: “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God,” Psalms 90:2; Psalms 93:2.
c. Paul ascribe this prophecy to Christ: “And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail,” Hebrews 1:10-12; Hebrews 13:8.
3. The Hebrews: “God who at sundry times and in divers manners...Who being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power,” Hebrews 1:1-3. It is important for us at this time to note Paul’s use of the word “image.” Notice:
a. The word image in Gr. is charakt?r or khar-ak-tare'; which means the same as; a graver (the tool or the person), i.e. (by implication) engraving (("character"), the figure stamped, i.e. an exact copy or (figuratively) representation):—express image. Jesus is the same or exact image of God, the Father.
b. He is: “The image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature,” Colossians 1:15-16. Christ came to reveal the Father in his own person. The love of God is seen in Christ. He was the visible representation of the “invisible God.”
c. Christ, “Is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the first-born from the dead; that in all things he might have the pre-eminence: for it pleased the Father that in Him shall all fullness dwell,” Colossians 1:18-19.
1) The word pre-eminence, in Gr. is proteúo or prote-yoo'-o; from; to be first (in rank or influence):—have the preeminence. Christ has the chief place or position.
2) This word is only used once in the Scriptures; and belongs entirely to Christ, as holding or having the first place, or the preeminence in all things.
3) Paul called himself, “the chief of sinners,” 1 Timothy 1:15. The number 1 sinner!
d. He who: “Being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high,” Hebrews 1:3; 2 Corinthians 4:3-5. In the next few verses, Paul moves his discussion from the pre-existence; unto Christ’s present existence, in our second point.
II A MIND OF SACRIFICE
A. Christ’s present existence. Even though He is divine; he took upon himself, humanity. Notice our text: “But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found fashioned as a man, he humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross,” Philippians 2:7-8. Notice:
1. But He made Himself of no reputation. He who had everything, made no claimed on anything; and, He who was heavenly (deity); for our sakes, became earthly (a servant of men).
a. Jesus left the Majesty and glories of heaven; to begin His earthly presence, to be born in a Bethlehem stable; being wrapped in swaddling clothes, and lying in a manger (an animal’s feeding trough). He did not come wearing a royal robe, or to be nursed in a noble court; but, to born of a virgin woman with roots to David, and to be cared for, by an honorable carpenter in the city of Nazareth. Notice:
b. Paul wrote elsewhere: “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for our sakes He became poor, that ye through his poverty might become rich,” 2 Corinthians 8:9.
c. Jesus warns some proposed followers: “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man, have not where (a place) to lay his head,” Luke 9:58; Psalms 84:3.
d. David said of Him: “For every beast of the forest is (are) mine; and the cattle on a thousand hills... If I were hungry, I would not tell you; for the world is Mine, and all its fullness,” Psalms 50:10-12; Psalms 24:1; 1 Corinthians 10:26.
2. He took upon him the form of a servant. Christ took upon Himself the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man,” Philippians 2:7-8. As mention earlier, we want to consider the meaning of the words before us now. Notice:
a. He took upon Him the form of a servant. The words “the form” here; is the same as that which we discussed earlier, in verse 6. Consider these two references:
1. B.W. Johnson, in The People’s New Testament, referring to these verses (6-8), wrote: “The meaning is not entirely clear, but probably is, that, having a form of glory like God, he did not count it a prize which must be clung to tenaciously, especially when he appeared upon the earth, that he should be equal with God, that is, appear in a divine form, but was willing to lay aside this glory and make himself a servant,” Page 214.
2. W. E. Vine’s, Greek Grammar and Dictionary, referring to the word “morph?;” it denotes “the special and characteristic form or feature” of a person or thing; it is used with particular significance in the New Testament, only to Christ, in Philippians 2:6-7, in the phrases “being in the form of God,” and “taking the form of a servant.”... An excellent definition of the word is that of Gifford: “morph?” is therefore properly the nature or essence, not in the abstract, but as actually subsisting in the individual, and retained as long as the individual ... exists. ... Thus in the passage before us “morph? Theou” is the divine nature actually and inseparably subsisting (existing) in the person of Christ,” Page 359.
b. The word “servant” in Gr. is doûlos, or doo'-los; from; a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency):—a bond (-man), or servant. He took on this form voluntarily. Jesus said: “Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister (serve), and give his life a ransom for many,” Matthew 20:28.
3. As Christ existed then, in the form of God; He exists now, even in the same form of the glory of God, but now, as the Son of man. Notice:
a. Stephen reported during his stoning, moments before his death, as “seeing one like the Son of man standing at the right hand of God in heaven,” Acts 7:54-60.
b. Paul, writes: “We look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our file body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself,” Philippians 3:20-21.
4. Christ existed in the same “form” as God. We see this word again in the Lord’s appearance to some disciples after His resurrection.
a. Mark wrote: “After that he (Jesus) appeared in another form “morph?” unto two of them (disciples), as they walked, and went into the country,” Mark 16:12.
b. Luke also mentions Jesus walking and talking with two disciples on the road “to a village called Emmaus,” Luke 24:13; Luke 24:30-35.
B. The word likeness, in Gr. is homoíoma or hom-oy'-o-mah; a form; abstractly, resemblance:—made like to, likeness, shape, and similitude. This is a likeness expressed by a “similitude” or example.
1. Christ came in the likeness of flesh: “For what the Law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit,” Romans 8:3.
2. Made of the seed of David. Jesus was made of the seed of David according to the flesh. Christ emptied Himself, of the divine form and glory, and took the form of a servant; of our race, a race whose duty it is to serve God. The divine glory was exchanged for human lowliness. Notice:
a. Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ: “Called to be an apostles, separated unto the gospel of God, (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the Holy Scriptures). Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David, according to the flesh; And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead,” Romans 1:1-4.
b. To Timothy Paul wrote: “Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things. Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel,”2 Timothy 2:7-8.
3. Took on Him the seed of Abraham. Paul wrote concerning Jesus: “For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham,” Hebrews 2:16.
C. Being found in fashion as a man. The word fashion in Gr. is schema or skhay'-mah; a figure (as a mode or circumstance), i.e. (by implication) external condition:—fashion. We see Him also in the fashion of a man.
1. Paul states: “He was made in the fashion like unto a man.” When we see Jesus, (as previously discussed, we know of His divine qualities); but, NOW, we need also to see humanity; he was like us a product of human nature. He is the “Son of man.”
2. We see Jesus: “Who was made a little lower than the Angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man,” Hebrews 2:9.
a. John the Baptist, “Behold the lamb of God,” John 1:29.
b. Jesus, “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. This he said, signifying what death he should die,” John 12:31-32; John 8:28-29.
c. Paul to the Corinthians: “And the love of Christ constraineth us,” 2 Corinthians 5:14-15.
d. Paul to Timothy: “for this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior; who would have all men to be saved, and come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator are between God and man, the man Christ Jesus: who gave himself a ransom for all to be testified (of) in due time,” 1 Timothy 2:3-6; John 3:16; Romans 5:8-9.
e. John to the saints: “My little children, these things I write unto you, that ye sin not. If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: and he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world,” 1 John 2:1-2. Illustrate: Mercy Seat, Hebrews 9:5.
3. He is our High Priest. For we have not a high priest: “Which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin,” Hebrews 4:15.
4. The Apostle and High Priest. Paul writes concerning Jesus: “Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession Christ Jesus: Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful (with his entire) house. For this man (Jesus) was counted worthy of more glory than Moses; inasmuch as he who hath builded the house, hath more honor than the house. For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God,” Hebrews 3:1-4.
D. He humbled himself. Paul now directs the Philippians unto why the real meaning and purpose of Christ’s coming, emptying of Himself; and that was “to become obedience unto death, even the death of the cross,” Philippians 2:8.
1. Paul introduces these saints, to the supreme example of human sacrifice and obedient submission unto God. He humbled Himself and took upon Him the “form of a servant” and was “made in the likeness of men.”
2. He did this when He came, by:
a. Removing from Him, the form of God and His divine position in eternity.
b. Divesting from Him, all heavenly riches, glory, honor and worship, for a time.
c. Appearing NOT in the form of God, nor even in the form of an angel; but, in the fashion of a man; in the likeness of sinful flesh.
d. Taking NOT only the fashion of a man; but, by assuming all the mortality of humanity, even the certainty of death.
e. Suffering the most shameful, cruelest, and painful death devised by man; even the death of the cross.
E. He became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. We will now look at the humility, submission and obedience of Christ; to the will of the Father. For God’s will ultimately include His death on the cross at Calvary. Christ not only “humbled himself” for this ordeal; but He, went willing unto the executioners.
1. Christ our example: “Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared,” Hebrews 5:7. Notice:
a. Jesus in the days of his flesh: John 1:14; Philippians 2:8.
1) Offered up prayers and supplication with strong crying and tears,
2) Unto Him that was able to save Him from death,
3) And was heard in that He feared (NIV, prayed in reverent submission).
b. Our Lord’s submission to His Father has brought salvation for all, through His obedience (unto death, even the death of the cross). Paul alludes to a particular time when these earnest supplications were offered unto the Father. The agony of Gethsemane’s is certainly mentioned it was then that Jesus said: “O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt,” Matthew 26:39-42.
c. Even there he was heard for an angel to send it to strengthen him. Jesus reverenced His Father in humble submission; in pious and godly fear.
2. Paul continues: “Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him,” Hebrews 5:7-9. Jesus learned obedience experimentally. He was fitted in all points to be our High Priest by the things which He suffered: made Him, not a perfect man, for He was that already; but, now a perfect High Priest, He became. Through which, He is now the author of eternal salvation to all those (nations and people) that chose to obey Him. Paul said:
a. Though he were a Son:
1) Yet He learned obedience – by the things which he suffered.
2) Being made perfect (through His suffering).
3) He became: the author of eternal salvation.
4) Unto all those that obey Him, Hebrews 5:8-9.
b. Christ was obedient; therefore, we must be obedient also to God.
c. Every believer must have a heart of submission and willing obedience to God; if they desire to benefit from the redemptive sacrifice of Christ upon the cross. Salvation is possible only through our submission and obedience to the “will of God.”
3. Application. Paul’s charge to the Philippian’s to be likeminded. We have seen in Christ, the divine pattern of “like mindedness” Let’s return to the start of this Letter, and see now what Paul was asking of these saints. Maybe, there is an application in our Lord’s example for us. Notice:
a. Paul writes: “If there be therefore in a consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies.” Can we find in this Letter?
1) Consolation in Christ, for His sacrifice and death for us?
2) Comfort in the love of God for us?
3) Fellowship in the Spirit of Christ in the church?
4) Mercies within the deep recesses of our bowels (inner being), for one another?
b. Paul’s request: “Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.” Strive to be of one mind, Philippians 1:27.
1) First, “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each (esteemeth others) better than themselves.” Let your service and sacrifice be unto the Lord; and not unto men, Ephesians 6:6-8; Matthew 5:16.
2) Further, “Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain,” Philippians 2:14-16. Paul desired, that they should be about preaching Christ and work, in life, and indeed. This was their life’s work. Unless they did this they will surely be a failure before him and God.
3) Finally, brethren:
a) “Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.” Paul speaks of his possible death for Christ. He was willing to be martyred, for his preaching of the gospel to these Gentiles; if his death, would be encouragement and boldness to their faith, Philippians 1:12-14.
b) “For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me,” Philippians 2:14-17. Like me, rejoice in the prospect of my death, that therein, Christ may be glorified; “For me to live is Christ and to die is gain,” Philippians 1:20-21.
c) “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others,” Philippians 2:1-4. Don’t just be concerned for yourself; but, also look out for the needs of others, who may not have all the necessities of life.
d) “Work out your own salvation, with fear and trembling,” Philippians 2:12-13.
4. Timothy “a pattern” of like mindedness. Paul continues: “I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state,” Philippians 2:19. He planned to send Timothy shortly unto them; that he might “learn of their affairs, that they stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel,” Philippians 1:27.
a. Timothy was Paul’s companion in Rome, during his first arrest; a beloved convert, fellow laborer, and son in the gospel, 1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:2; Acts 16:1-5.
b. Paul in the next few verses will outline Timothy’s, “pattern of like mindedness” as a reminder to the church at Philippi.
c. We would do well as preachers, evangelists and ministers to aspire to this kind of unity within the brotherhood. Notice this pattern of unity:
1) First, he writes: “I (Paul) have no man like-minded, who will naturally care for your state or condition, as the church of Christ!” He wrote to the Corinthians concerning those things that were without; and those that were within, that which pressed on him daily: “the care of all the churches,” 2 Corinthians 11:28. There is no one else here with me who would well represent my feelings and views when he visits you, except Timothy; my fellow laborer. Illustrate: Barnabas; Silas, Demas, etc.
2) Further, he pens: “For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.” On the other hand, there are many who were more mindful of their own interests; rather than in the things of Christ. Paul would speak to all these ministers, in his second letter to Timothy: while being housed in a Roman prison, in Rome, 2 Timothy 1:15-18; 2 Timothy 4:9-15. You might recall we spoke to these types of preachers in our lesson, entitled: “At My First Answer,”2 Timothy 4:16-18. Please obtain a copy of it; to better understand Paul’s message to Philippi.
3) Next, he notates: “But you know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he has served with me in the gospel.” He then turns to the proof of Timothy’s work and life among the church. You know the proof of him, he states. Like a son he has served with me in the gospel. I want to be clear with this; Timothy did not serve under Paul; nor did Paul serve over him: but, Timothy served with Paul in the gospel. Illustrate: Big I, Little You Preachers.
4). Finally, beloved in the Lord, if there is a message here for older ministers; it would be this: “Open up your work, so as to, tutor and mentor young men; to aspire to become gospel preachers and teachers.” Like Paul did unto Timothy, 2 Timothy 2:2. Here are some things you could do!
a) Inspire them towards “an excellence in their preaching of Christ.”
b) Show them in your life, how to be an example of unity among the brethren.
c) Don’t just preach about unity; be an example of it before them, the church and the Lord Jesus Christ.
d) Compliment them openly; but, critic them privately.
e) Be constructive; not critical!
f) Be more to them than a brother: be to them “a father, as Paul was to Timothy.”
5. Him therefore I hope to send presently, as soon as I see how it will go with me. But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly,” Philippians 2:19-24. The apostle had not given up hope, that he too might see them, if the Lord wills. Regardless of our present condition, there is always hope; that God will be gracious unto us, to better our condition. If not, let us even in this be thankful for the many other prayers that were answered favorable unto our condition. He now promises to send Timothy unto them to learn of their condition; and inform them of his, and present hope to see them again. This was not Timothy first “mission for Paul in Christ:”
a. His work in Corinth, 1 Corinthians 4:17; 1 Corinthians 16:10.
b. His work in Thessalonica, 1 Thessalonian 3:2-3.
c. His work in Macedonia, Acts 19:22.
With this, let’s consider our last point.
III A MIND OF SERENITY
A. Christ’s pre-eminent existence. In this point Paul speaks to Christ’s pre-eminent existence. That is, Him being highly exalted by His Father. The humility of Christ is shown and God’s approval of his suffering, death, and resurrection, is now presented. We therefore conclude: “That God truly resists the proud, but give his grace unto the humble,” James 4:6. Therefore, God has highly exalted Him and given Him a name above every name; which is Jesus Christ the Savior.
1. God has put all authority in His hand, Matthew 28:18-20.
2. Peter speaks of Christ’s exaltation on the Day of Pentecost.
a. In his sermon, he preaches of David’s foretelling of the resurrection of Christ; he said: “He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.”
b. “This Jesus hath God raised up; whereof we are all witnesses.”
c. “Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which you now see and hear.” He continues:
d. “For David is not ascended into the heavens: but, he said himself, the Lord said unto my Lord:”
1) “Sit thou on my right hand;”
2) “Until I make thy foes thy footstool.”
e. He concludes: “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God has made that same Jesus whom you have crucified, both Lord and Christ,” Acts 2:31-36.
B. And given him a name which is above every name. Peter, “being filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel:”
1. First, “If we this day be (are being) examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole,” Acts 3:1-9.
2. Further, “Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom God raised from the dead, even by Him doth this man stand here before you whole.”
3. Next, “This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.”
a. Isaiah 28:16.
b. Ephesians 2:20-22.
c. 1 Corinthians 3:11.
4. Finally, “Neither is there salvation in any other (name): for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved,” Acts 4:8-12.
5. Seeing therefore the boldness of Peter and John: “And perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marveled; and they took knowledge that they had been with Jesus. And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it,” Acts 4:13-14.
6. After the Sanhedrin’s conference: “They commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus,” Acts 4:15-18.
7. Peter and John’s response: “But Peter and John answered and said unto them: Whether it be (is) right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye (you). For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard,” Acts 4:19-20; Acts 5:29.
a. Peter and John, were unshaken in their work, or silenced by their threatenings from the Jewish leadership in Jerusalem.
b. These apostles refused to be silent; and therefore, subjected themselves to outward resistance and persecutions from these leaders.
c. Peter and John were committed to the preaching of Christ; regardless of the consequences. They said: “We cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.”
d. They were unafraid of their threats; they were considered: “Bold fearless preachers.” We need men like these in the pulpits of the churches of Christ. Where are they? As the servants of the Lord, we must speak out against the sin and corruptions that impact our political and religious institutions in America.
C. Every knee shall bow. Paul went on to write: “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth,” Philippians 2:10. This Jesus who has all things put under His feet; shall ever knee will bow; in the acknowledgement of His glory, authority and power.
1. Isaiah wrote: “I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return. That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear. Surely, shall one say, in the Lord have I righteousness and strength: even to him shall men come; and all that are incensed against him will be ashamed. In the LORD shall all the seed of Israel be justified, and shall glory,” Isaiah 45:23-25; Galatians 3:6-9; Galatians 3:26-29.
2. Paul wrote of this:
a. To the Romans: “For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then; every one of us, shall give an account of himself to God,” Romans 14:11-12.
b. To the Ephesians: “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,” Ephesians 3:14.
c. To the Hebrews: “And again, when he bringeth in the first begotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him,” Hebrews 1:6. The angels were also sent to minister unto Jesus after his temptation, Matthew 4:11.
D. And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Jesus said all shall confess Him, to the glory of God.
1. “Therefore whosoever confesses me before men, Him I will also confess before my Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies me before men, Him I will deny before My Father who is in heaven,” Matthew 10:32-33.
2. “Nevertheless even among the rules many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue; for they love the praise of men more than the praise of God,” John 12:41-42.
3. “That if thou shall confess with the mouth... thou shalt be saved... For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation,” Romans 10:9-10.
4. “For it is written: ... And every tongue shall confess to God. So then each of us shall give account of himself to God,” Romans 14:11-12.
E. To the glory of God the Father.
1. David wrote: “I will praise You, O Lord my God, with all my heart, And I will glorify Your name forevermore,” Psalms 86:12.
2. Isaiah wrote: “Wherefore glorify ye the Lord,” Isaiah 24:15.
3. Jesus said: “That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sen Him,” John 5:23.
4. Jesus said to His disciples: “And whosoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son,” John 14:13.
5. The Holy Spirit hath glorified the Son; John 16:13-15.
6. The Father hath, and will glorify the Son, John 17:1.
7. We glorify God and our Lord Jesus Christ in “our good works before all men,” Matthew 5:16; 1 Peter 2:12; 1 Peter 4:16.
8. Summary: All men and women everywhere will bow their knee and confess in submission to Christ in the Day of Judgment. To confess Him now; means He will confess us then. Not to confess Him now; will yield no benefit when you confess Him then.
9. Conclusion: The name of Jesus. That name, by His exaltation, has become the name of King of kings and Lord of lords. It is supreme. Hence, every knee in the entire universe will bow to His Majesty. In the earth; as well as in the under-world; that is hades, the abode of the dead. And every tongue shall confess. The dead and living; shall confess Christ, as Lord, to the glory of God the Father. We all shall confess him, either in joy, or in shame. We will confess Him in order to be a recipient of eternal life; now, or to be subject to eternal damnation, in the judgment. As I now move to a conclusion, let me review what we have discussed briefly.
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. A Mind of Submission
2. A Mind of Sacrifice
3. A Mind of Serenity
B. Remarks.
1. First, we investigated the mind of Christ, which was one of submission. Paul states: “Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men," Philippians 2:6-7.
2. Second, we considered the mind of Christ as an obedient sacrifice, even the death of the cross. Notice Paul: “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross,” Philippians 2:8.
3. Finally, we addressed the mind of serenity (patience) of Christ. Paul says: “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father,” Philippians 2:9-11.
C. Invitation, H, B, R, C, B.
D. Motivation.
E. Persuasion.
