Embracing Unity Through Christ's Example of Humility
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to reflect on the importance of unity within the church, especially in light of the example set by Jesus Christ. We began by remembering the significance of Communion, a meal that has been passed down for over 2,000 years to remind us of Christ's sacrifice. The bread symbolizes His body broken for us, and the cup represents His blood poured out for the New Covenant. This sacred meal is reserved for believers who have repented of their sins and are trusting in Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
We then turned our attention to Philippians 2:1-11, a passage that beautifully illustrates the mindset and humility of Christ. Paul urges us to adopt the same attitude as Christ, who, despite being in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped. Instead, He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant and becoming obedient to the point of death on a cross. This supreme example of humility serves as a model for us to follow in our relationships with one another.
Disagreements and divisions often arise in the church over personal preferences and interests. Whether it's project preferences, positional preferences, or even parenting preferences, these can threaten the unity of the church. Paul’s solution is simple yet profound: have the mind of Christ. This means thinking like Christ, loving like Christ, and being humble like Christ. When we adopt this mindset, we prioritize unity over our personal preferences and interests.
Paul's message to the Philippians, a spiritually healthy church, was to protect their unity by adopting Christ-like humility. This involves setting aside selfish ambition and considering others more significant than ourselves. By doing so, we reflect the humility of Christ and maintain the unity of the church. This unity not only glorifies God but also serves as a powerful testimony to the world around us.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Significance of Communion: Communion is a sacred meal that reminds us of Christ's sacrifice. The bread symbolizes His body broken for us, and the cup represents His blood poured out for the New Covenant. This meal is a profound reminder of His love and sacrifice, reserved for those who have repented and trust in Jesus as their Lord and Savior. [43:23]
2. Christ's Supreme Example of Humility: Jesus, though in the form of God, did not cling to His divine privileges. Instead, He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant and becoming obedient to death on a cross. This act of humility serves as the ultimate example for us to follow in our relationships with one another. [01:06:48]
3. The Threat of Personal Preferences: Personal preferences, whether in projects, positions, or parenting, can threaten the unity of the church. These preferences often lead to divisions and conflicts. Paul urges us to set aside our selfish ambitions and consider others more significant than ourselves to maintain unity. [01:13:30]
4. Adopting the Mind of Christ: To protect the unity of the church, we must adopt the mind of Christ. This involves thinking like Christ, loving like Christ, and being humble like Christ. By doing so, we prioritize unity over our personal preferences and interests, reflecting Christ's humility in our relationships. [01:20:54]
5. Unity as a Testimony to the World: When the church is united, it serves as a powerful testimony to the world. People from diverse backgrounds coming together in unity is a clear demonstration of God's work. This unity glorifies God and shines as a light in the world, drawing others to Him. [01:49:59]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[43:23] - The Significance of Communion
[44:12] - Paul's Reminder in 1 Corinthians
[45:07] - Preparing for Communion
[54:12] - The New Covenant in Christ's Blood
[55:57] - Introduction to Philippians 2:1-11
[01:06:48] - Christ's Supreme Example of Humility
[01:09:56] - Disagreements in the Church
[01:13:30] - The Threat of Personal Preferences
[01:20:54] - Adopting the Mind of Christ
[01:24:02] - Christ-like Thinking and Love
[01:28:08] - Christ-like Humility
[01:33:06] - The Example of Jesus
[01:43:01] - Applying Christ-like Humility
[01:49:59] - Unity as a Testimony to the World
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Philippians 2:1-11
- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
#### Observation Questions
1. What does the bread and the cup symbolize in Communion according to 1 Corinthians 11:23-26? [44:12]
2. How does Paul describe the mindset of Christ in Philippians 2:5-8? [01:06:48]
3. What are some examples of personal preferences that can threaten church unity mentioned in the sermon? [01:13:30]
4. According to Philippians 2:3-4, what attitude should we have towards others to maintain unity? [01:06:48]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it significant that Jesus, though in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped? How does this relate to our behavior in the church? [01:06:48]
2. How does the act of Communion serve as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice and promote unity among believers? [43:23]
3. What does it mean to "have the mind of Christ" in the context of church unity, and how can this mindset help resolve conflicts? [01:20:54]
4. How can setting aside personal preferences and ambitions reflect Christ-like humility in our relationships within the church? [01:13:30]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent disagreement you had within the church. How could adopting the mind of Christ have changed the outcome? [01:20:54]
2. Communion is a sacred meal for believers who have repented and trust in Jesus. How can you prepare your heart for Communion to ensure you are taking it in a worthy manner? [44:12]
3. Think about a personal preference you have that might be causing division in your church. How can you set this preference aside to promote unity? [01:13:30]
4. In what ways can you demonstrate Christ-like humility in your daily interactions with fellow church members? [01:06:48]
5. How can you actively strive to achieve common understanding and genuine agreement in your church community, especially when faced with differing opinions? [01:27:24]
6. Identify a specific area in your church life where you can prioritize the interests of others over your own. What steps will you take to make this change? [01:29:27]
7. How can the unity of your church serve as a testimony to the world around you? What practical actions can you take to contribute to this unity? [01:49:59]
Devotional
### Day 1: The Sacredness of Communion
Communion is a sacred meal that reminds us of Christ's sacrifice. The bread symbolizes His body broken for us, and the cup represents His blood poured out for the New Covenant. This meal is a profound reminder of His love and sacrifice, reserved for those who have repented and trust in Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Communion is not just a ritual; it is a deeply spiritual act that connects us to the sacrifice of Jesus and the unity of the church. It is a time to reflect on our relationship with Christ and with one another, ensuring that we are in right standing with God and our fellow believers.
As we partake in Communion, we are reminded of the immense love and sacrifice of Jesus. This act of remembrance should lead us to a place of gratitude and humility, recognizing that we are part of a larger body of believers who share in this sacred tradition. It is a moment to examine our hearts, repent of our sins, and renew our commitment to follow Jesus. By doing so, we honor His sacrifice and strengthen the unity of the church. [43:23]
1 Corinthians 10:16-17 (ESV): "The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread."
Reflection: As you prepare for Communion, take a moment to examine your heart. Is there any sin you need to confess or any relationship that needs reconciliation? How can you approach the Lord's Table with a heart of gratitude and humility today?
### Day 2: Emulating Christ's Humility
Jesus, though in the form of God, did not cling to His divine privileges. Instead, He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant and becoming obedient to death on a cross. This act of humility serves as the ultimate example for us to follow in our relationships with one another. Christ's humility is not just an abstract concept but a practical model for how we should live our lives. By putting others before ourselves and serving them selflessly, we reflect the character of Christ.
In Philippians 2:1-11, Paul urges us to adopt the same attitude as Christ. This means letting go of our pride, selfish ambitions, and personal preferences. It involves a radical shift in how we view ourselves and others, prioritizing the needs and well-being of others above our own. By doing so, we create a community that mirrors the humility and love of Christ, fostering unity and harmony within the church. [01:06:48]
Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV): "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others."
Reflection: Think of a specific way you can serve someone in your church or community this week. How can you demonstrate Christ-like humility in your actions and attitudes towards them?
### Day 3: Overcoming Personal Preferences
Personal preferences, whether in projects, positions, or parenting, can threaten the unity of the church. These preferences often lead to divisions and conflicts. Paul urges us to set aside our selfish ambitions and consider others more significant than ourselves to maintain unity. When we allow our personal preferences to take precedence, we risk creating an environment of division and strife. Instead, we are called to prioritize the unity of the church by putting the needs and preferences of others before our own.
This requires a conscious effort to let go of our desires and to seek the greater good of the community. By doing so, we reflect the selfless love of Christ and contribute to a harmonious and united church. It is a call to humility and selflessness, recognizing that our preferences are not more important than the unity and well-being of the body of Christ. [01:13:30]
Romans 12:10 (ESV): "Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor."
Reflection: Identify a personal preference that has caused tension or division in your relationships. How can you set aside this preference and seek to honor and serve others instead?
### Day 4: Adopting the Mind of Christ
To protect the unity of the church, we must adopt the mind of Christ. This involves thinking like Christ, loving like Christ, and being humble like Christ. By doing so, we prioritize unity over our personal preferences and interests, reflecting Christ's humility in our relationships. Adopting the mind of Christ means aligning our thoughts, attitudes, and actions with His. It is a call to live out the values and principles that Jesus demonstrated during His earthly ministry.
This transformation begins with a renewed mind, shaped by the Word of God and the Holy Spirit. As we grow in our understanding of Christ's character, we are better equipped to emulate His humility, love, and selflessness. This not only strengthens our personal walk with God but also fosters a spirit of unity and cooperation within the church. [01:20:54]
Colossians 3:12-14 (ESV): "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony."
Reflection: Reflect on your current mindset and attitudes. Are there areas where you need to adopt the mind of Christ? How can you practically demonstrate Christ-like love and humility in your daily interactions?
### Day 5: Unity as a Testimony to the World
When the church is united, it serves as a powerful testimony to the world. People from diverse backgrounds coming together in unity is a clear demonstration of God's work. This unity glorifies God and shines as a light in the world, drawing others to Him. The unity of the church is not just for the benefit of its members but also serves as a witness to the world. It shows that the love of Christ transcends differences and brings people together in harmony.
A united church reflects the heart of God and His desire for all people to be reconciled to Him and to one another. It is a living testimony of the transformative power of the Gospel, drawing others to the hope and love found in Jesus Christ. By striving for unity, we fulfill our calling to be ambassadors of Christ, showcasing His love and grace to a watching world. [01:49:59]
John 17:20-21 (ESV): "I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me."
Reflection: Consider how your actions and attitudes contribute to the unity of the church. What steps can you take to promote unity and be a testimony of God's love to those around you?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "We as God's people need our memories jogged. When we read the Old Testament time and time again, God had His people set up memorials to help them remember His faithfulness. He set up meals at times that they would consume. We continually do, generation after generation, to remind them of His goodness." [43:23] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The bread that we are about to eat reminds us of His body that was broken for us. The cup that we are about to drink reminds us of His blood that was poured out. The New Covenant. For us. As we eat this bread. As we drink this cup. We are looking back remembering His death on the cross. And we are looking forward. Proclaiming His death until He comes again." [44:12] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We are citizens of heaven. We should not allow our political preferences, our political interests to divide us as the people of God." [01:16:51] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Jesus did not consider being God grounds for getting, but for giving. He could have clutched his rights, his blessings, and his benefits as king, but he lived open-handedly displaying for us what humility looks like." [01:36:20] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We must be a people willing and wanting to serve and sacrifice for others. We need to have the mind of Christ. We gotta think like Him. We gotta love like Him. And we need to be humble like Him. And when we do, the results will be unity." [01:43:01] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Selfish ambition describes a strong drive for personal success without a care in the world for what it causes to other people. Now apply that to disagreements in the church. Selfish ambition describes a strong drive for personal preferences without a care in the world for what it does to other believers, what it does to our relationship with them, or what it does to the body of Christ." [01:28:49] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Paul says, let each of you. I love that. He singles us all out. I mean, if only, if only a few of us were to do what Paul instructs here, there'd still be disunity. We should all hear and heed what he is saying. You know, I can desire unity. I could seek to preserve it. I could have Christ-like thinking, Christ-like love and Christ-like humility. I could be pursuing it. But if the rest of you weren't, there'd still be all sorts of division and disorder in the church." [01:29:59] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Paul's like, put away selfish ambition. Put away your desires to have it your way for position, for glory, any of these things. Put away your desire to have it look or be done this way or that way. Rather, in humility, count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interest, but also to the interest of others." [01:29:27] (-1291 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Paul says Christ Jesus humbled himself by being born in the likeness of men. 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 he emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men." [01:34:11] (-1563 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Imagine coming into every conversation and every disagreement with a brother or sister in Christ thinking like, man, I just wanna think like Jesus. Oneness to be the goal. Sometimes that would mean, you know what, I really want this, but I understand that this is just a preference and it doesn't matter. And it means letting it go and going, you know what, I'm gonna let it go their way." [01:44:48] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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