Assignment #13

Ron Johnson

May 10, 1999

Homiletical Idea:        Unity among Christians comes when we put on an attitude of humility just as Christ did.

Teaching Outline for Phil. 2:1-11

Intro: 

·         Go through current commercials and show how many promote a “me” centered life.

·         Ways it affects us and isolates us - Husband, Wife, Student, Class

·         Is this effective?  Does it work?

·         There is a better way.  Go through some historical background of Philippians and possible unity problems.  Paul writes an answer in Phil. 2:1-11

I.          The call for unity is based on the work of God in the church.  (1-2)

            A.        All Christians are united with Christ and we should be like-minded.  (Minds)

            B.        Christ’s love is comforting and we should have that same love.  (Emotions)

            C.        The Spirit provides fellowship and we should be one in the spirit.  (Spiritual lives)

D.                Affection and compassion for others are part of the body and we should be one with each other.  (focus)

II.        The practice of unity comes when we are humble towards each other.  (3-4)

            A.        Humility does not put yourself first, but others first.

            B.        Humility focuses on the needs and interests of others.

III.             The example of an attitude of humility that we should follow is Jesus Christ.  (5-11)

A.                He had everything since He was God. (6)

·         How do we think we have everything sometimes?

B.                 He gave it up to provide salvation to others.  (7-8)

1.                  By becoming man, He made Himself nothing.  (7)

2.                  He was even willing to be humbled by death on the cross.  (8)

·         What are we willing to give up even just to help someone else?

C.                 Christ’s humility ended up with great results.  (9-11)

1.                  God exalted Him above all else.  (9)

2.                  Mankind will know God.  (10-11)

3.                  God can use our humility as well to accomplish His purposes and do great things.