Introduction

Good morning, brothers and sisters. I am thrilled to be with you here today to unpack the profound message given to us in Philippians 2:5-11.

As Tim Keller once said, "Christ literally walked in our shoes and entered into our affliction. Those who will not help others until they are destitute reveal that Christ's love has not yet turned them into the sympathetic persons the Gospel should make them." This truth is reflected in the humility, obedience, and salvation of our Lord Jesus Christ as described in Philippians.

Now, let's dive into the Word. Philippians 2:5-11 states,

"In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

Let's bow our heads for an opening prayer.

Heavenly Father, we are grateful for the gift of Your Word that enlightens our minds and stirs our hearts. As we explore this passage today, we ask for Your guidance. Help us to comprehend the depth of Christ's humility, the extent of His obedience, and the power of His salvation. May we emulate His selflessness in our lives and strive to be more like Him every day. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Let’s jump right in!

The Humility of Christ

This passage paints a vivid picture of the selfless nature of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who, despite being in the very nature of God, chose not to exploit His divine status for His own advantage. Instead, He took on the form of a servant, humbling Himself to the point of death on a cross. This is a remarkable display of humility that is unparalleled in human history.

His incarnation: The Son of God, who existed in the form of God, willingly left the splendors of heaven to dwell among sinful humanity. He did not come as a mighty king or a powerful ruler, but as a humble servant. He was born in a manger, not a palace. He grew up in Nazareth, a town of little significance. He worked as a carpenter, not as a prince or a scholar. This is the humility of Christ – the King of kings and Lord of lords, choosing to live a life of obscurity and simplicity.

His ministry: He did not seek fame or popularity. He did not demand respect or recognition. Instead, He served others selflessly, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and teaching the truth. He washed His disciples' feet, a task reserved for the lowest of servants. He associated with tax collectors, sinners, and the marginalized of society. He did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.

His death: He willingly laid down His life on the cross, enduring the most humiliating and painful form of execution. He bore our sins and took the punishment that we deserved. He was obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. He did this not because He was compelled to, but because of His great love for us. He humbled Himself so that we might be exalted. He became sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God.

A practical model for us to follow: As believers, we are called to have the same mindset as Christ Jesus. We are to humble ourselves, considering others better than ourselves. We are to serve, not to be served. We are to love, not to be loved. We are to give, not to receive. This is the humility of Christ – a humility that is not weak or passive, but powerful and transformative.

Pastor, here would be a good place to share a personal story about why/if being humble is difficult for you. How has God helped you live in humility like Him?

The Obedience of Christ

The obedience of Christ is a concept that is both profound and challenging, as it calls us to reflect on the extent of Christ's obedience and what it means for our own lives ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO