The Sacrifice Behind The Manger

THE SACRIFICE BEHIND THE MANGER

Philippians 2:6–8

Christmas is beautiful—not because of the lights, gifts, or songs—but because of the unimaginable sacrifice Jesus made to reach us.

Philippians 2:6–8 pulls back the curtain of eternity and shows us what Christmas truly cost Jesus.

It reminds us that Christmas is not just a story of what God gave to us…

but what Christ gave up for us.

I. HE GAVE UP HIS MAGNIFICENT POSITION

(Philippians 2:6)

“Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage…”

INTRODUCTION TO POINT I

Human nature clings tightly to position and recognition.

We desire honor.

We want to be respected.

We strive for status, titles, and the approval of others.

People fight for promotions, defend their reputation, and resist anything that makes them appear lower.

But Jesus reveals a breathtaking contrast:

While humanity grasps for position, Jesus released His.

While we fight to climb up, Jesus chose to step down.

The One who sat on heaven’s throne willingly entered a manger.

Reflection

Before Bethlehem, Jesus was enthroned in glory—worshiped by angels, exalted above all creation.

Yet He did not cling to that position.

He exchanged His heavenly glory for earthly humility—because love mattered more.

Application

• When pride pushes us to seek attention, Christ invites us to choose humility.

• When we demand recognition, Christ reminds us of the joy of serving quietly.

• When we feel entitled, Christ calls us to surrender our rights for the sake of others.

Challenge

Are we willing to give up our pride, our ego, and our desire for status—just as Christ gave up His magnificent position for us?

II. HE GAVE UP HIS MARVELOUS POWER

(Philippians 2:7)

“…but made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.”

INTRODUCTION TO POINT II

Human beings love control.

We want to manage our own world—our schedule, our relationships, our decisions.

Surrender and dependence feel uncomfortable.

We fear not being in charge because we equate control with safety.

Yet Jesus models the opposite spirit.

He who held infinite power chose limitation.

He who commanded the universe became a child who needed to be carried.

While we cling to control, He surrendered His power for us.

Reflection

The hands that shaped the stars became tiny, fragile hands in a manger.

The One who ruled heaven chose to serve earth.

Christmas is the story of Omnipotence becoming Vulnerability.

Application

• When life slips out of our control, we can trust the God who surrendered His control for our salvation.

• When we struggle to yield our plans, Christ invites us to let Him lead.

• When we fear dependence, Christ teaches us the beauty of trusting the Father.

Challenge

Are we willing to surrender our need for control and allow God’s will—not ours—to direct our lives?

III. HE GAVE UP HIS MAJESTIC PROTECTION

(Philippians 2:8)

“…he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”

INTRODUCTION TO POINT III

People naturally seek comfort and safety.

We avoid pain at all cost.

We guard our hearts, protect our plans, and choose the safest path possible.

We don’t want to be hurt, criticized, or exposed.

But Jesus chose a path filled with danger.

He did not stay in the security of heaven—He entered a world that would reject Him.

He did not shield Himself—He embraced suffering to save us.

While we avoid pain, He walked straight toward the cross.

Reflection

Jesus did not only become human—He became obedient unto death.

He gave up His heavenly protection so He could take our place on the cross.

The manger and the cross are inseparable parts of the same rescue mission.

Application

• When obedience feels costly, Jesus reminds us that faith is worth the sacrifice.

• When fear whispers “play it safe,” Jesus invites us to trust courageously.

• When serving God becomes difficult, Christ calls us to persevere as He did.

Challenge

Are we willing to obey God even when it is hard, risky, or painful—just as Christ did for us?

ILLUSTRATION BEFORE CONCLUSION

There was once a king who ruled with wisdom and strength.

But though he cared deeply for his people, they feared him.

Whenever he passed by, they bowed—but none came near.

No one felt close to him; no one dared to love him.

So one day, the king removed his royal robe, laid aside his crown, and dressed like a simple peasant.

He left the palace and lived among his people.

He talked with them, ate with them, listened to their stories, helped in their burdens, and shared in their pains.

Slowly, the people realized—they could approach him without fear.

Only later did they discover the truth:

“The man who walked among us was the king all along.”