E-Free Church - Gaylord Campus
When we really wrap our heads around the theology of Christmas it allows our heart to grow in our love, not only for God, but for one another. This is Christmas!
Philippians 2:5-8 NASB1995
The CAUSE for Unity (v1) [answers the question WHY?]
The CALL to Unity (v2) [answers the question WHAT?]
The COMPONENTS of Unity (v3-5) [Answers the question HOW?]
An ABSENCE of SELFISHNESS (v3-4)
Setting aside POSITION
Setting aside POPULARITY
Setting aside PRESTIGE
Setting aside PREFERENCE
Steps Down Jesus Took
(selflessness; servanthood, sacrifice, submission)
An ATTITUDE of the SAVIOR (v5-11)
The PURPOSE of the passage (v5)
The PORTRAIT of the passage (v6-8)
His SELFLESSNESS
The ACCOUNT of Christ
His SERVANTHOOD
The CRITERIA for servanthood
What do we learn from the word “form”?
It is the same word (morphe) used in verse 6
It is not simply an outward appearance
Describes an inner, essential abiding nature
It is a matter of being, not simply doing
What do we learn from “bond-servant”?
Performed willingly not out of obligation
Active voice = Christ willingly took this on
Matthew 20:25-28 NASB1995
The COMMAND for servanthood (Mt 20:25-28)
The PARADOX of Christ’s teaching (v25-26a)
Lord over = an emphasis on power
This is the style of the dominant leader
Literally – “to rule down on people”
Preposition “kata” intensifies the meaning
This is the opposite of Philippians 2:3
Authority = to do as one pleases
Literally = to play the tyrant
Preposition “kata” intensifies the meaning
The is the opposite of Philippians 2:4
Jesus attitude is opposite
The PRIORITY of Christ’s teaching (v26b-27)
Servant = one who serves others (deacon)
Described one who did menial labor
Not a term of dishonor
Lowest level of hired help
Needed no specialized training
Slave = subjection without bondage (willing)
The PICTURE of Christ’s teaching (v28)
Jesus did not come to be served
Jesus came to serve others (even in death)
His SACRIFICE
Seen in His INCARNATION
What is incarnation?
God took on flesh and became man
He was 100% God and 100% man at the same time (Hypo-static union)
Romans 1:3-4 NASB1995
Seen in Romans 1:3-4
Verse 3 shows His humanity
Verse 4 shows His Deity
Seen in His IDENTIFICATION
He took the weakness of humanity on Himself
As a result, He understands our hurts (Hebrews 4:15)
Hebrews 4:15 NABRE