Philippians 2:1-11 (NIV)

In a world of division and hubris, the picture of Jesus in today’s passage stands out as a different way to be human. Listen carefully to the passage, and you can hear Paul practically begging this church to be like Jesus.

This passage confronts head-on our notions of self-reliance, personal freedom, and desire for power. Jesus did life differently. He showed us what  it means to be truly human. In Romans 8 Paul also writes that we are to be conformed into the image of the Son. This is the character description of that Son. It ought to challenge us to our very core, calling us into utter dependence on the Spirit of the LORD.

----------REFLECT----------

1. What part of this passage challenged you the most? What part bbrought you the most comfort?

2. Pauls says if there’s any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in his spirit or tenderness and compassion… in your relationships with one another have the mindset of Christ... So how are your relationships today? What would it look like for you to value these individuals above yourself today?

3. We who follow Jesus believe that what Jesus accomplished on the cross is the most powerful act anyone has ever performed. It is the act upon which the entire history of the cosmos turns towards redemption. Yet, it was at the same time the deepest act of humility the world has ever seen. When you are motivated to be strong, to be powerful, to make a difference, do you move towards humility or something else? What would it look like for you to emulate Jesus’ humility today?

----------GO DEEPER----------

Bible Project Podcast: New Testament Letters >>

Bible Project Video: New Testament Letters: Historical Context >>

Bible Project Video: New Testament Letters: Literary Context >>

Bible Project Video: Philippians >>

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