By The Rev. Ron Purkey
Guest Columnist

(Read: Philippians 2:1-11)

“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” (Philippians 2:1-3).

Humility is characterized by an attitude that does not seek to exalt or assert itself. In our world, this is not considered a desirable character quality. But in the kingdom of God, humbleness is an essential attribute for Christ-followers to have.

The Rev. Ron Purkey

Humility defined Jesus’ life. In heaven he relinquished his glory, majesty and power to become a man. He voluntarily emptied himself — just as a glass of water is poured out — in order to live on earth. He surrendered all he shared with his father in order to serve us. Not only that, but as a man, he took on the role of lowly servant. He lovingly submitted himself to his father’s plan and gave up all earthly rights in order to rescue us from sin.

Jesus endured unbelief, criticism, ridicule, persecution and, finally, crucifixion in order to help us. His humility knew no limit. He humbled himself before the father to become the Lamb of God, and he did the so before mankind, even when he was labeled a criminal and unjustly convicted. Jesus’ life demonstrates the importance of being Christ’s example of humility and gives us a clear pattern to follow.

The disciples missed the point until after the fact because they were not looking for a Messiah in the form of a servant. The leaders felt threatened because Jesus’ call to follow his lifestyle did not give them the importance they wanted. The crowds were bewildered because they did not understand the danger of pride. But the Father saw Jesus’ meekness and was pleased.

“And (Jesus) 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” (Philippians 2:8-9).

What attitude does God see when He looks at you and me?

Insight: “How great a matter a little fire kindleth” (James 3:5c). Selfishness on the part of one believer can cause trouble in the lives of others. Jesus used this as an opportunity to teach the disciples a lesson on humility. The truly great person is one who serves others. Christ himself is the example of this. To “exercise lordship” as the people of the world do is foreign to the spirit of the Christian life. While Christian leaders are to “shepherd the flock”, they are not to govern in self-will and pride, but humbly as “under shepherds.”

Thought to remember: “Be humble or you’ll stumble” — D.L. Moody.

Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines.com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.