Sermons on Philippians 2:6-11

Philippians 2:6-11 Interpretation:

Jesus: The Humble King of Servanthood and Obedience (Granville Chapel) interprets Philippians 2:6-11 by emphasizing the parabola-like movement of Jesus' journey from divinity to humanity and back to exaltation. The sermon highlights the Greek term "kenosis," meaning "emptied himself," to describe Jesus' self-sacrifice and humility. The speaker uses a mathematical analogy of a parabola to illustrate the descent and ascent of Jesus, emphasizing the magnitude of his humility and subsequent exaltation.

Joy and Unity Through Humility in Christ (Westover Church) interprets Philippians 2:6-11 by focusing on the concept of humility as the path to unity and joy. The sermon uses the analogy of a basketball game where rules are adjusted for fairness, likening it to Jesus' choice to "veil" his divine abilities to become human. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus' humility and obedience, even to death on a cross, serve as a model for believers to follow in their relationships and community life.

Embracing the Great Commission: Active Discipleship for All (Hyland Heights Baptist Church) interprets Philippians 2:6-11 by emphasizing the authority of Jesus, which is rooted in his humility and obedience as described in the passage. The sermon highlights that Jesus, though in the form of God, did not exploit his equality with God but humbled himself, leading to his exaltation. This interpretation underscores the connection between Jesus' humility and his ultimate authority, which empowers believers to carry out the Great Commission. The sermon uses the Greek term "kenosis" (emptying) to explain how Jesus emptied himself by taking the form of a servant, which is central to understanding his authority and mission.

Philippians 2:6-11 Theological Themes:

Jesus: The Humble King of Servanthood and Obedience (Granville Chapel) presents the theme of Jesus' kingship as one characterized by humility and servanthood, contrasting it with the absolute power and cruelty of ancient kings. The sermon emphasizes that Jesus' kingship involves a call to obedience and a fusion of worship and obedience in the believer's life.

Joy and Unity Through Humility in Christ (Westover Church) introduces the theme of humility as the doorway to unity and joy within the Christian community. The sermon highlights the concept of "vainglory" or empty glory, urging believers to count others more significant than themselves and to serve with genuine humility.

Embracing the Great Commission: Active Discipleship for All (Hyland Heights Baptist Church) presents the theme of Jesus' authority as a result of his humility and obedience. The sermon explores how Jesus' exaltation and authority are directly linked to his willingness to humble himself and become obedient to death. This theme is distinct in its focus on the relationship between humility and authority, encouraging believers to recognize the power of humility in their own lives as they participate in the Great Commission.

Philippians 2:6-11 Historical and Contextual Insights:

Jesus: The Humble King of Servanthood and Obedience (Granville Chapel) provides historical context by describing the absolute power and cruelty of ancient kings, such as the Pharaohs of Egypt and the Assyrian kings. The sermon contrasts these historical examples with Jesus' humble kingship, emphasizing the radical nature of his servanthood and sacrifice.

Philippians 2:6-11 Cross-References in the Bible:

Jesus: The Humble King of Servanthood and Obedience (Granville Chapel) references Romans 1 to emphasize Jesus' exaltation and kingship through his resurrection. The sermon also mentions John 1:4, highlighting Jesus as the Word made flesh, and Hebrews 1, which describes Jesus as the radiance of God's glory.

Joy and Unity Through Humility in Christ (Westover Church) references Romans 8:13 to discuss the ongoing struggle against sin and the call to put to death the deeds of the body. The sermon also cites Titus 2:13, emphasizing Jesus' purpose in creating a people zealous for good works.

Embracing the Great Commission: Active Discipleship for All (Hyland Heights Baptist Church) references several passages to support the interpretation of Philippians 2:6-11. Matthew 28:18-20 is used to emphasize Jesus' authority in the Great Commission, while Revelation 7:9 is cited to assure believers of the fulfillment of the Great Commission, as every nation, tribe, and tongue will worship before the throne. Additionally, 1 Corinthians 15 is mentioned to highlight Jesus' victory over death, reinforcing the theme of his authority and power.

Philippians 2:6-11 Christian References outside the Bible:

Joy and Unity Through Humility in Christ (Westover Church) references C.S. Lewis, describing pride as a "spiritual cancer" and emphasizing the importance of humility. The sermon also mentions John Owen, who speaks about the condescension of Christ and his dual nature as both divine and human.

Embracing the Gift of Christ's Birth and Reign (Hebron Baptist Church) references J.I. Packer, a theologian, to emphasize the importance of the incarnation in God's plan of salvation. Packer's quote highlights that without the incarnation, there would be no God-man, and without the God-man, there would be no mediation or redemption. This reference underscores the significance of Jesus' dual nature as both fully God and fully man, which is essential for understanding the depth of God's love and the uniqueness of Jesus' mission.

Philippians 2:6-11 Illustrations from Secular Sources:

Joy and Unity Through Humility in Christ (Westover Church) uses the analogy of a basketball game with adjusted rules to illustrate Jesus' choice to "veil" his divine abilities. The sermon also humorously references the concept of a "humble brag" to highlight the deceptive nature of pride and the importance of genuine humility.

Embracing the Gift of Christ's Birth and Reign (Hebron Baptist Church) uses the analogy of a firefighter entering a burning building to save people to illustrate Jesus' incarnation. The sermon explains that just as a firefighter must enter the flames to rescue those inside, Jesus stepped into the fallen world to save humanity. This analogy vividly portrays the sacrificial nature of Jesus' mission and his willingness to endure suffering for the sake of others.