Good morning,
Role models are important in life. We all remember individuals who were role models to us. This week we will look at Philippians 2. Four men serve as good role models for us. We want to look at specific character qualities that made them good role models.
We will begin with Jesus.
JESUS’ EXAMPLE (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, 2 Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Paul begins by challenging the Philippians to be:
- Likeminded v2
- Having the same love v2
- Being of one accord v2
- One mind v2
- Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory v3
- Esteem others better than themselves v3
Paul then challenges the Philippians to follow the example of Jesus.
- Let the mind of Christ be in you v5
- Let us not try to be equal to God v6
- Let us be of no reputation v7
- Let us serve v7
- Let us be humble v8
- Let us be obedient v8
The characteristics above should be our goal as Christians. Unity, love, humbleness, and obedience are central to the victorious Christian life.
Meditate on Paul’s challenge today.
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001
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