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I. Recognize That This Life Is NOT All About You (vv. 1-4). All believers must be humbly motivated and guided by:
· The life change that comes from the Gospel (1:27)
· The focus that comes from unity in the Gospel (1:27)
· The courage that comes from standing together with other believers (1:28)
· The comfort that comes from knowing Jesus is in control (1:29-30)
· The tenderness and compassion that a relationship with Jesus enables believers to share (2:1)
· This life is ALL about Jesus!

II. Resolve to Live Out Self-Denial (2:2-4).
· This properly builds on the foundation laid by those who came before us (v. 2)
· This does away with any rivalries forming in the body (“selfish ambition”) This speaks of self-interest and self-aggrandizement at the expense of others. Those who practice such sins base their values and behaviors on self-worship.
· This eliminates robbing God of His glory (“conceit” = empty glory). Glory-mongers often practice the sins of grumbling and disputing. They always want more notoriety and if they can’t achieve this they turn sour and attempt to find sympathizers.
· This promotes humble living which puts the interest of others ahead of oneself (vv. 3-4).

III. Remain Committed to Following the Example of Jesus (2:5-8). Jesus sets the example for us by communicating His attitude about three compartments:

· Himself – Humility



· Others – Service



· God - Obedience