Go! And Imitate Christ—The Call to Humility and Exaltation - Philippians 2:6–11
Introduction: The Greatest Example of Humility and Glory
There is no greater example of humility, servanthood, and ultimate exaltation than Jesus Christ. In a world obsessed with status, power, and recognition, the Bible calls us to a different path—the path of humility, sacrifice, and obedience.
Philippians 2:6–11 (NLT) presents a profound truth about Jesus: "Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
This passage is one of the most powerful declarations of Christ’s identity and mission. It is a call to follow Jesus’ example of humility, obedience, and ultimate exaltation.
Today, we will explore what it means to Go! And Imitate Christ—to walk in His humility and share in His glory.
1. Go! And Follow Christ’s Humility (Philippians 2:6–7)
Paul begins by revealing the incredible humility of Jesus: "Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to."
The Greek word for "equality" here is ?s?? (isos), meaning equal in nature, status, and essence. Jesus was not merely like God—He is God. But instead of clinging to His divine privileges, He chose the path of humility.
"Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being."
The phrase "gave up" comes from the Greek word ?e??? (kenóo), meaning "to empty" or "to make of no effect." Jesus did not lose His divine nature—He voluntarily set aside His privileges to become one of us.
John 1:14 (NLT) – "So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son."
Jesus left the glory of heaven to dwell among us. He became fully God and fully man.
Matthew 20:28 (NLT) – "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Jesus came as a servant, not a ruler. He chose humility over power.
True greatness in God’s kingdom is found in humility.
Jesus teaches us that leadership is servanthood—to lead is to serve.
We must empty ourselves of pride and selfishness, just as Jesus did.
A famous conductor once walked into a rehearsal and helped move chairs before the musicians arrived. Someone asked, "Why would you do that?" He replied, "Because in music and in life, no job is beneath anyone." Jesus, the King of Kings, stooped to serve—shouldn’t we do the same?
C.S. Lewis said: "Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it is thinking of yourself less."
2. Go! And Follow Christ’s Obedience (Philippians 2:8)
"He humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross."
Jesus’ humility led to obedience—obedience even to the point of death. The Greek word for "obedience" here is ?pa??? (hupakoe), meaning "submission under authority."
Hebrews 5:8 (NLT) – "Even though Jesus was God’s Son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered."
Jesus' obedience was perfected through suffering.
Romans 5:19 (NLT) – "Because one person disobeyed God, many became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many will be made righteous."
Adam’s disobedience brought sin, but Jesus’ obedience brings salvation!
Obedience to God often requires sacrifice.
We are called to obey God, even when it’s difficult.
Our obedience should be driven by love, not obligation.
A soldier obeys his commanding officer not out of fear, but out of trust in the mission. Jesus obeyed the Father, trusting the ultimate victory beyond the cross.
A.W. Tozer wrote: "The greatness of a man’s power is the measure of his surrender."
3. Go! And Share in Christ’s Exaltation (Philippians 2:9–11)
"Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names,"
The Greek word ?pe????? (hyperypsoo) means "to exalt beyond measure." Jesus was not just raised—He was super-exalted!
"that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,"
This echoes Isaiah 45:23, where God declares that every knee will bow to Him—now fulfilled in Jesus.
"and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
The Greek word for "Lord" here is ?????? (Kyrios), the title for God Himself. Jesus is not just a good teacher—He is Lord of all!
Ephesians 1:20–21 (NLT) – "Now he is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else—not only in this world but also in the world to come."
Jesus is above all—He reigns forever!
Revelation 19:16 (NLT) – "On his robe at his thigh was written this title: King of all kings and Lord of all lords."
The exalted Christ will return as King of Kings!
As believers, we share in Christ’s victory and eternal glory!
Bow to Him willingly now, or be forced to bow later—He is Lord!
Live with the eternal perspective that Christ reigns over all!
In a relay race, the final runner holds the baton high in victory. Jesus has won the race, and we run in His victory!
John Piper says: "Jesus is the only leader who goes beyond the grave, leads into eternity, and is worthy of our allegiance forever."
Conclusion: Go! And Imitate Christ!
Jesus humbled Himself, obeyed unto death, and was exalted above all. As His followers:
Go in humility—serve like Jesus.
Go in obedience—submit to God’s will.
Go in victory—exalt Jesus as Lord!
Call to Action:
Live a life that mirrors Christ’s humility and obedience.
Worship Jesus as Lord of all!
Invitation to Faith:
If you have never surrendered to Jesus, today is the day!
Pray: "Lord Jesus, I humble myself before You. Forgive my sins. I declare You as Lord and Saviour. Lead my life forever. Amen!"
Hallelujah! Jesus is Lord—Go and live for Him!
