Embracing Christ's Humility: The Path to Exaltation
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into Philippians 2:5-11, a passage often referred to as the "Christ Hymn." This section of Scripture is a profound and poetic depiction of Jesus Christ's humility and exaltation. We began by reciting the Apostles' Creed, affirming our shared faith with Christians across time and cultures. The Christ Hymn reveals the astonishing journey of Jesus, who, though in the form of God, did not cling to His divine privileges. Instead, He emptied Himself, taking on human form and becoming obedient to the point of death on a cross. This act of humility is not just a historical event but a theological cornerstone that binds us together as believers.
The hymn poetically describes Jesus' descent from divine glory to human frailty and then to the ultimate humiliation of crucifixion. Yet, it doesn't end there. The hymn also speaks of His exaltation, where God highly exalts Him and bestows upon Him the name above every name. This dual movement of descent and ascent is central to understanding the nature of Christ and the essence of the Gospel.
We also explored the sensory language used by John in 1 John 1:1-3, emphasizing the tangible reality of Jesus' incarnation. This is not a mere theological concept but a lived experience for the early disciples who saw, heard, and touched Jesus. This tangible reality is crucial for our fellowship with God and each other.
The humility of Christ serves as a corrective to human pride, which has been a stumbling block since the Garden of Eden. The serpent's lie that disobedience would make us like God is the root of all sin. In contrast, Jesus' humility and obedience to the Father's will, even unto death, provide the antidote to our pride and sin.
We concluded with a powerful illustration from the Habsburg Knocking Ceremony, which underscores the futility of titles and accomplishments in the face of divine judgment. Only through humility and repentance can we enter into eternal fellowship with God.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Humility of Christ: Jesus, though in the form of God, did not cling to His divine privileges. Instead, He emptied Himself, taking on human form and becoming obedient to death on a cross. This act of humility is a profound example for us to follow, teaching us that true greatness lies in self-sacrifice and service to others. [10:06]
2. The Incarnation's Tangibility: John emphasizes the sensory experience of Jesus' incarnation—seeing, hearing, and touching Him. This tangible reality is crucial for our fellowship with God and each other. It reminds us that our faith is not just a set of beliefs but a lived experience rooted in the historical reality of Jesus Christ. [06:37]
3. Correcting Human Pride: The humility of Christ serves as a corrective to human pride, which has been a stumbling block since the Garden of Eden. The serpent's lie that disobedience would make us like God is the root of all sin. In contrast, Jesus' humility and obedience to the Father's will, even unto death, provide the antidote to our pride and sin. [30:17]
4. The Path to Exaltation: The Christ Hymn shows that the path to exaltation is through humility and obedience. Jesus' descent into human form and His subsequent exaltation by God illustrate that true glory comes through self-sacrifice and submission to God's will. This is a powerful reminder that our path to eternal life involves humility and repentance. [26:49]
5. The Futility of Earthly Titles and Accomplishments: The Habsburg Knocking Ceremony illustrates the futility of relying on titles and accomplishments for eternal significance. In the end, only humility and repentance matter. This story serves as a poignant reminder that our true identity and worth are found in our relationship with God, not in our earthly achievements. [42:36]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:34] - Apostles' Creed and Opening Prayer
[03:09] - Introduction to the Christ Hymn
[04:54] - The Descent of Christ
[06:37] - Tangibility of the Incarnation
[08:12] - The Question: What is God Up To?
[10:06] - Reading Philippians 2:5-11
[12:08] - The Kenosis: Christ's Self-Emptying
[13:42] - Addressing Heresies
[15:33] - The Mystery of the Incarnation
[17:07] - The Humble Birth of Christ
[18:42] - Isaiah's Prophecy of the Suffering Servant
[20:28] - The Necessity of Christ's Death
[22:06] - Jesus' Obedience to the Father
[23:36] - Christ as Our Advocate
[25:16] - The Shock of the Cross
[26:49] - The Exaltation of Christ
[28:25] - Restoration of the Created Order
[30:17] - Human Pride vs. Christ's Humility
[31:58] - The Serpent's Lie and Human Sin
[33:46] - The Path to Eternal Life
[35:18] - Humility and Casting Anxieties on God
[37:30] - The Habsburg Knocking Ceremony
[42:36] - The Only Way In: Humility and Repentance
[43:38] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Philippians 2:5-11: "Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
2. 1 John 1:1-3: "That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life—the life was made manifest, and we have seen it, and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was made manifest to us—that which we have seen and heard we proclaim also to you, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ."
3. Isaiah 53:2-3: "For he grew up before him like a young plant, and like a root out of dry ground; he had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Philippians 2:5-11 describe about Jesus' nature and actions? How does this passage illustrate both His humility and exaltation?
2. According to 1 John 1:1-3, what sensory experiences did the early disciples have with Jesus, and why are these significant for our faith? [06:37]
3. How does Isaiah 53:2-3 depict the appearance and reception of the Messiah? What does this tell us about Jesus' earthly life and mission?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is the humility of Christ, as described in Philippians 2:5-11, essential for understanding the Gospel? How does this humility contrast with human pride? [30:17]
2. In what ways does the tangible reality of Jesus' incarnation, as emphasized in 1 John 1:1-3, strengthen our fellowship with God and each other? [06:37]
3. How does the Habsburg Knocking Ceremony illustrate the futility of earthly titles and accomplishments in the face of divine judgment? What lesson can we draw from this about our own lives? [42:36]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you struggled with pride. How can Jesus' example of humility in Philippians 2:5-11 guide you in overcoming pride in your daily life? [30:17]
2. How can you make the reality of Jesus' incarnation more tangible in your own faith journey? What practical steps can you take to deepen your fellowship with God and others? [06:37]
3. Think about your own titles and accomplishments. How can you shift your focus from these earthly achievements to a life of humility and service, as exemplified by Jesus? [42:36]
4. In what ways can you practice humility and obedience in your current circumstances? Identify one specific area where you can follow Jesus' example of self-emptying and service. [10:06]
5. How can the story of the Habsburg Knocking Ceremony change your perspective on what truly matters in life? What steps can you take to prioritize humility and repentance over worldly success? [42:36]
6. Consider the sensory language used in 1 John 1:1-3. How can you incorporate more tangible experiences of faith into your spiritual practices, such as through acts of service or community involvement? [06:37]
7. Reflect on the dual movement of descent and ascent in the Christ Hymn. How can you apply this pattern of humility leading to exaltation in your personal and spiritual growth? [26:49]
Devotional
Day 1: The Humility of Christ
Jesus, though in the form of God, did not cling to His divine privileges. Instead, He emptied Himself, taking on human form and becoming obedient to death on a cross. This act of humility is a profound example for us to follow, teaching us that true greatness lies in self-sacrifice and service to others. Jesus' humility is not just a historical event but a theological cornerstone that binds us together as believers. His willingness to descend from divine glory to human frailty and then to the ultimate humiliation of crucifixion is a powerful reminder of the lengths to which God will go to redeem humanity.
In a world that often equates greatness with power and status, Jesus' example challenges us to rethink our values. True greatness, according to the Gospel, is found in humility and self-sacrifice. As we reflect on Jesus' humility, we are called to emulate His example in our own lives, putting others before ourselves and seeking to serve rather than be served. [10:06]
Philippians 2:5-7 (ESV): "Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men."
Reflection: Think of a situation where you can practice humility today. How can you put someone else's needs before your own in a tangible way?
Day 2: The Incarnation's Tangibility
John emphasizes the sensory experience of Jesus' incarnation—seeing, hearing, and touching Him. This tangible reality is crucial for our fellowship with God and each other. It reminds us that our faith is not just a set of beliefs but a lived experience rooted in the historical reality of Jesus Christ. The early disciples' firsthand experiences with Jesus underscore the importance of the incarnation as a real, physical event that has profound implications for our faith.
The tangibility of Jesus' incarnation means that our relationship with Him is not abstract or theoretical. It is grounded in the reality of His life, death, and resurrection. This tangible reality invites us into a deeper fellowship with God and with one another, as we share in the lived experience of following Jesus. [06:37]
1 John 1:1-3 (ESV): "That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life—the life was made manifest, and we have seen it, and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was made manifest to us—that which we have seen and heard we proclaim also to you, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ."
Reflection: How can you make your faith more tangible today? Consider a practical way to experience and share the reality of Jesus' presence in your life.
Day 3: Correcting Human Pride
The humility of Christ serves as a corrective to human pride, which has been a stumbling block since the Garden of Eden. The serpent's lie that disobedience would make us like God is the root of all sin. In contrast, Jesus' humility and obedience to the Father's will, even unto death, provide the antidote to our pride and sin. Human pride often leads us to seek our own way, to assert our independence from God, and to elevate ourselves above others.
Jesus' example of humility and obedience stands in stark contrast to this. By submitting to the Father's will and humbling Himself, Jesus shows us the true path to righteousness and fellowship with God. His humility is a powerful reminder that our worth and identity are found not in our achievements or status, but in our relationship with God. [30:17]
James 4:6-7 (ESV): "But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.' Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
Reflection: Identify an area of your life where pride has taken root. How can you practice humility and submission to God's will in that area today?
Day 4: The Path to Exaltation
The Christ Hymn shows that the path to exaltation is through humility and obedience. Jesus' descent into human form and His subsequent exaltation by God illustrate that true glory comes through self-sacrifice and submission to God's will. This is a powerful reminder that our path to eternal life involves humility and repentance. Jesus' journey from divine glory to human frailty and back to exaltation is a model for us to follow.
In a culture that often celebrates self-promotion and personal achievement, Jesus' example challenges us to seek a different path. True exaltation, according to the Gospel, comes not from elevating ourselves, but from humbling ourselves before God and others. As we follow Jesus' example, we are invited to trust in God's promise of exaltation for those who humble themselves. [26:49]
1 Peter 5:6-7 (ESV): "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to practice humility and trust in God's timing for exaltation? How can you submit that area to Him today?
Day 5: The Futility of Earthly Titles and Accomplishments
The Habsburg Knocking Ceremony illustrates the futility of relying on titles and accomplishments for eternal significance. In the end, only humility and repentance matter. This story serves as a poignant reminder that our true identity and worth are found in our relationship with God, not in our earthly achievements. The ceremony, where the emperor's titles are recited and then rejected, underscores the transient nature of worldly status and accomplishments.
In contrast, the Gospel calls us to find our worth and identity in Christ alone. Our earthly titles and achievements, no matter how impressive, cannot secure our place in God's kingdom. Only through humility, repentance, and a relationship with Jesus can we enter into eternal fellowship with God. [42:36]
Matthew 23:11-12 (ESV): "The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted."
Reflection: Reflect on your own achievements and titles. How can you shift your focus from these earthly accomplishments to your relationship with God? What steps can you take today to practice humility and repentance?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "We have seen in a lot of ways that Paul, as he leads into this, he speaks of Christ, as our perfect example of humility, of not only putting others first and that he came to this earth to die for our sins, but also in the sense of using the power that he had for the benefit and for the good of others. He is our perfect example of humility, and we then learn to follow in his path." [03:09] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Friends, the distance between God and his full glory and Jesus Christ, born as a baby in a manger, is beyond finding out. We see it, we recognize it, but it's beyond our ability to fully grasp the depth of what Christ did in his incarnation. But even more than the distance between the eternal, perfect creator God and death on a cross." [04:54] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "When Jesus emptied himself and became a man, God was forgiving sin and reconciling people to himself. Friends, you and I need a representative before the father. We need a representative before the father. Scripture actually calls Jesus Christ our advocate. It has this lawyer-like position to it. You and I have sinned, and we've broken relationship with the heavenly father." [23:36] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Friends of the solution to your sin, Sin and pride is not to celebrate it and grow comfortable with it. It is to repent and to put your trust in Jesus. That is the solution to sin and pride. Jesus humbled himself so he could conquer sin and death. And so then we learn, remember, this is how Paul introduces this hymn. Having this mind among yourselves that is now yours in Christ Jesus, that's how he introduces this topic." [35:18] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The narrative of our world is that, that if you live as if this world is all about you, you will become like God. Jesus Christ tells us, the only way in is through the cross, and it's through repentance. This is who we follow. This is who we belong to. Our crucified Savior, our risen Savior, who is also our soon and coming King." [43:38] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "We learn that Christ laid aside the pure, perfect glory of heaven as God himself, the preexistent God, and he put on flesh to dwell among us. This poetic trip of a ladder down the order of being. And that's what it is. That's the way that this hymn is presented. We go from the preexistent Christ, this very God of very God, into flesh, the form of a servant, then to death, even death on a cross." [03:09] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "So our time in the Christ hymn today here in Philippians chapter 2, we're going to wrestle with this question, what is God up to? What is he doing? What are the reactions, one of the possible reactions to this narrative? When we understand the great glory of the pre-existent Son of God and the fullness of his humility as he empties himself, as he divests himself of his privileges as God, we might ask ourselves the question, why does he do that?" [08:12] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The humility of Christ on the cross is correcting the pride of humanity. That's the intention of the first section of this hymn, is that we're coming in contact with what Christ has done, the humility of Christ. And what it is doing, it is reversing the effects of human pride. It's reversing the effects of human pride. Sin is the result of our pride." [30:17] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We try as human beings to ascend to heaven and shake our fists at God. So Jesus came down to earth, becomes a man, dies on a cross and rises from the dead. Friends of the solution to your sin, Sin and pride is not to celebrate it and grow comfortable with it. It is to repent and to put your trust in Jesus. That is the solution to sin and pride." [33:46] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Peter the disciple says this, Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. That's a powerful set of thoughts. Because we're talking about releasing. We're talking about repenting. We're talking about a life of humility before our heavenly Father." [36:21] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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