Untitled Sermon

The Humility of Christ: A Model for All

Bible Passage: Philippians 2:5-11

Summary: The passage in Philippians 2:5-11 emphasizes the humility of Christ, who, although He was God, humbled Himself to the point of death on the cross, and was subsequently highly exalted by God.

Application: This passage serves as a powerful example for Christians in their daily lives. It calls believers to imitate Christ's humility and selflessness in their relationships with others, in their service to the church, and in their attitude towards suffering and sacrifice.

Teaching: The teaching in this passage highlights the sacrificial love of Christ, who willingly gave up His divine rights and privileges for the sake of humanity. It also underscores the ultimate victory and exaltation that came as a result of His obedience to the Father.

How this passage could point to Christ: The humility and exaltation of Christ in Philippians 2:5-11 point to His role as the Suffering Servant predicted in the Old Testament, whose sacrificial death would bring salvation to all who believe.

Big Idea: By following Christ's example of humility and sacrificial love, Christians can experience transformation in their character and relationships, ultimately bringing glory to God and fulfilling His purposes.

Recommended Study: In preparing this sermon, delve deeper into the concept of kenosis (self-emptying) in Philippians 2:5-11 using resources like 'The New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology' in Logos. Explore the theological implications of Christ's humility and exaltation, and how it relates to the believers' call to humble service and unity within the body of Christ.

1. Humble in Heavenly Rank

Philippians 2:5-6

You could begin by detailing how Christ, though in the form of God, did not count equality with God something to be exploited, illustrating the ultimate example of humility. This introduces the big idea by showing the foundation of Christ's humility and sets the stage for applying this attitude in our own lives, emphasizing selflessness and humility in our relationships and service.

2. Humbled to Humanity

Philippians 2:7-8

Perhaps explore the depth of Christ's humility in taking the form of a servant and becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. This segment could tell the story of Christ's sacrificial love, encouraging believers to emulate His humility and obedience, despite personal cost or sacrifice. Highlight how this reflects the big idea of transforming our character and relationships by following Christ's example.

3. Honored by Heaven

Philippians 2:9-11

Maybe conclude with God's response to Christ's humility: His exaltation and the declaration that every knee should bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. This could illustrate the ultimate victory and recognition that comes from humility and obedience to God, encouraging believers that true exaltation comes from God in response to humility, thus connecting back to the big idea of experiencing transformation and bringing glory to God through Christ-like humility.