Unity Through Humility - Sabbath School

Introduction

Welcome everyone! Today, we’re diving into a powerful lesson called “Unity Through Humility.” 

We’ll explore how Jesus’ example can transform our hearts, our relationships, and our church family.

Let’s begin with prayer:

“Lord, open our hearts and minds as we study Your Word.

Teach us to be humble like Jesus, and help us to love one another.

Amen.”

Sabbath: Introduction – The Call to Unity

Memory Text: Philippians 2:2

Philippians 2:2 NKJV

fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.

Teaching Point: Paul is writing to the church in Philippi, urging them to be united—not just in words, but in heart and purpose. He knows that unity is only possible when we put others first and follow Jesus’ example.

Discussion Question:

Why do you think unity is so important in a church or family?

Teaching Answer: Unity helps us work together, support each other, and show the world what God’s love looks like. When we’re divided, we can’t accomplish God’s mission.

Sunday: Disunity in Philippi

Scripture: Philippians 2:1-3

Philippians 2:1–3 KJV 1900

If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Teaching Point: Even in the early church, there were arguments and selfishness. Paul warns against “selfish ambition or conceit” and tells us to “value others above yourselves.”

Discussion Questions:

What are some things that cause disunity among people today?

Teaching Answer: Jealousy, pride, wanting our own way, or not listening to others can all cause problems.

How can we show “encouragement” and “comfort” to each other?

Teaching Answer: By being kind, listening, helping when someone is sad, and praying for each other.

Practical Application: This week, look for someone you can encourage—maybe a classmate, a sibling, or a church member.

Monday: The Source of Unity

Scripture: Philippians 2:1-11

Philippians 2:1–11 KJV 1900

If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Teaching Point: Paul points us to Jesus as the ultimate example. Jesus was God, but He humbled Himself and became a servant. Our unity comes from having the same attitude as Christ.

Discussion Questions:

What does it mean to have the “mind of Christ”?

Teaching Answer: It means thinking like Jesus—being humble, loving, and willing to serve others.

Why is it hard sometimes to put others first?

Teaching Answer: Because we naturally want to think about ourselves first. But with God’s help, we can change.

Practical Application: Try to do one thing today that puts someone else’s needs before your own.

Tuesday: Mind Implant or Mind Surgery?

Scripture: Philippians 2:5-8

Philippians 2:5–8 CSB

Adopt the same attitude as that of Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be exploited. Instead he emptied himself by assuming the form of a servant, taking on the likeness of humanity. And when he had come as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death— even to death on a cross.

Teaching Point: Paul says we need a new way of thinking—a “mind transplant”! Jesus humbled Himself, even to the point of dying on the cross. God wants to change our hearts so we can be humble, too.

Discussion Questions:

What does it mean to let God “change your mind”?

Teaching Answer: It means asking God to help us think and act more like Jesus every day.

Can you think of a time when you needed to change your attitude? What happened? (Let participants share; affirm honest answers.)

Practical Application: Pray each morning: “Lord, give me the mind of Christ today.”

Wednesday: The Mind of Christ

Scripture: Philippians 2:5-11

Philippians 2:5–11 CSB

Adopt the same attitude as that of Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be exploited. Instead he emptied himself by assuming the form of a servant, taking on the likeness of humanity. And when he had come as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death— even to death on a cross. For this reason God highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow— in heaven and on earth and under the earth— and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Teaching Point: Because Jesus humbled Himself, God exalted Him. True greatness in God’s eyes comes from serving others, not from being first.

Discussion Questions:

How did God honor Jesus for His humility?

Teaching Answer: God raised Jesus up and gave Him the highest name—every knee will bow to Him!

How can we “serve” others in our daily lives?

Teaching Answer: By helping at home, being a good friend, volunteering, or sharing what we have.

Practical Application: Find a way to serve someone this week—at home, school, or church.

Thursday: The Mystery of Godliness

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 8:2; Romans 8:3; Hebrews 2:14-18

1 Corinthians 8:2 CSB

If anyone thinks he knows anything, he does not yet know it as he ought to know it.

Romans 8:3 CSB

For what the law could not do since it was weakened by the flesh, God did. He condemned sin in the flesh by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh as a sin offering,

Hebrews 2:14–18 CSB

Now since the children have flesh and blood in common, Jesus also shared in these, so that through his death he might destroy the one holding the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who were held in slavery all their lives by the fear of death. For it is clear that he does not reach out to help angels, but to help Abraham’s offspring. Therefore, he had to be like his brothers and sisters in every way, so that he could become a merciful and faithful high priest in matters pertaining to God, to make atonement for the sins of the people. For since he himself has suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are tempted.

Teaching Point: The “mystery” is that God became human in Jesus. He understands our struggles and gave His life for us. This is the foundation of true godliness.

Discussion Questions:

Why is it amazing that Jesus became human?

Teaching Answer: Because He is God! He chose to become like us so He could save us and show us how to live.

How does knowing Jesus understands our struggles help you?

Teaching Answer: It gives us comfort and courage—He knows what we’re going through and will help us.

Practical Application: When you face a hard time, remember: Jesus understands and is with you.

Friday: Further Thought – Living Out Unity

Teaching Point: Let’s review: Unity comes from humility, and humility comes from following Jesus. We are called to live these truths every day.

Discussion Questions:

What is one thing you learned this week about unity or humility? (Let participants share.)

How can we help our church or family be more united?

Teaching Answer: By forgiving, being patient, listening, and loving like Jesus.

Practical Application: Challenge: This week, choose one way to practice humility and unity—at home, school, or church. Share your experience next time!

Closing Prayer

“Lord, thank You for showing us what true humility looks like. Help us to follow Jesus’ example, to love and serve others, and to bring unity wherever we go. Amen.”