Jesus: The Humble King of Servanthood and Obedience
Summary
In a reflective discourse, Samuel Voo delves into the nature of Jesus' kingship, contrasting it with both ancient and contemporary models of rulership. He begins by exploring the human quest for community and meaning, recounting a story about a social worker who, despite creating community connections, felt something was still missing. This anecdote serves as a segue into a discussion about the Bible and its role in revealing God's story and the search for deeper purpose.
Voo suggests that the Bible is not merely a collection of theological truths, historical documents, or moral guidelines, but rather a true story of God's interaction with the world. He emphasizes that the narrative structure of the Bible is unique among religious texts, with a clear beginning, middle, and end that unfolds God's plan through the establishment, failure, and eventual fulfillment of the Kingdom of Israel.
Central to this narrative is the figure of Jesus, whose life and mission redefine what it means to be a king. Voo examines Philippians 2, which describes Jesus' journey from divine form to human form, his humble service and obedience even unto death, and his subsequent exaltation. This passage, often referred to as the Christ hymn, is seen as a poetic expression of early Christian worship, highlighting the magnitude of Jesus' sacrifice.
Voo contrasts the absolute power and often cruel reign of ancient kings, such as the Pharaohs of Egypt and the Assyrian rulers, with the servant leadership exemplified by Jesus. He points out that while ancient kings sought to demonstrate their power through domination and fear, Jesus, though possessing divine authority, chose to empty himself and serve others, ultimately sacrificing his life.
The discussion then turns to the implications of Jesus' example for individual lives. Voo encourages reflection on areas where one might resist Jesus' kingship, urging a surrender to his way and will. He emphasizes that Jesus' kingship is not about inducing guilt or fear but about inviting obedience and transformation in every aspect of life. This obedience is not separate from worship but is intrinsically linked to it, as demonstrated by the life of Jesus.
Voo shares the story of Keith Green, a musician whose life was transformed by his encounter with Jesus. Green's devotion to God and his message through music exemplify the fusion of worship and obedience that Voo advocates. The lyrics of Green's songs echo the call to live a life aligned with God's will, beyond mere religious observance.
In conclusion, Voo invites the audience to consider how they might continue to surrender to Jesus as their king and lord, offering a prayer of repentance and commitment to follow Jesus' example of humble service and sacrificial love.
Key Takeaways:
- The Bible is best understood as a true story of God's interaction with the world, with a narrative structure that sets it apart from other religious texts. This story-centric view of scripture shapes our understanding of the gospel and the nature of God's kingdom. [05:08]
- Jesus' kingship is marked by a radical departure from the power dynamics of both ancient and modern rulers. His authority is exercised not through domination but through service and sacrifice, redefining what it means to be a king and inviting us to follow his example. [21:45]
- Obedience to Jesus is not a matter of fear or guilt but a response to his loving sacrifice. It is an integral part of worship, where believers are called to live out their faith in practical ways, reflecting Jesus' lordship in all areas of life. [27:45]
- Personal transformation stories, like that of Keith Green, illustrate the profound impact of encountering Jesus. Such stories inspire believers to dedicate their talents and lives to God's purposes, blending worship with a commitment to discipleship and service. [31:25]
- The act of surrendering to Jesus' kingship involves acknowledging areas of resistance and seeking to align one's life with his will. This surrender is a continuous process, marked by a desire to see God's kingdom come and his will be done in every aspect of our lives. [38:55]
Study Guide
Bible Reading:
Philippians 2:6-11 (NIV)
"Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
2 Timothy 2:8 (NIV)
"Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel."
Observation Questions:
1. What does Philippians 2:6-7 reveal about Jesus' nature before His incarnation?
2. How does Philippians 2:8 describe Jesus' attitude and actions during His time on earth?
3. In Philippians 2:9-11, what is the result of Jesus' obedience and humility, and how does it affect all of creation?
Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the description of Jesus in Philippians 2:6-11 contrast with the typical understanding of kingship in terms of power and authority?
2. What does it mean for Jesus to have "made himself nothing" and to have taken "the very nature of a servant"?
3. In what ways does the exaltation of Jesus in Philippians 2:9-11 challenge our view of success and honor?
Application Questions:
1. Reflect on an area of your life where you may be seeking control or recognition. How can you follow Jesus' example of humility and servanthood in this situation?
2. Identify a specific instance this week where you can demonstrate obedience to Christ in a way that may go unnoticed by others but is significant in God's eyes.
3. Consider a relationship where you struggle to show Christ-like love. What is one practical step you can take to serve that person selflessly?
4. Think about a decision you need to make soon. How can you ensure that your choice reflects Jesus' lordship and aligns with His will rather than your own desires?
5. Is there a specific area in your life where you have been resistant to God's guidance? Commit to one action you can take to surrender that area to Jesus' kingship.
Devotional
Day 1: Redefining Kingship in Christ
Jesus' kingship defies traditional power structures, emphasizing humility and servanthood over domination. This redefined monarchy invites believers to reconsider their own views on authority and to emulate the selfless nature of Christ's leadership. [18:53]
Matthew 20:25-28 - "Jesus called them together and said, 'You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.'"
Reflection: How does your current understanding of leadership compare with the servanthood model presented by Jesus? What steps can you take to embody this approach in your daily interactions?
Day 2: Worship and Obedience as One
True worship extends beyond songs and prayers, encompassing a life of obedience that reflects the transformative lordship of Jesus. This holistic worship is a daily commitment to align actions and decisions with God's will, as a response to His loving sacrifice. [29:27]
Romans 12:1-2 - "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
Reflection: What aspect of your daily routine can you transform into an act of worship? How can you practice obedience to God in that area starting today?
Day 3: The Gospel as God's Story
The Bible's narrative reveals God's ongoing redemptive work, culminating in Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. Understanding this story helps believers grasp the full scope of the gospel and their place within God's grand narrative. [05:08]
1 Peter 1:20-21 - "He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God."
Reflection: How does seeing your life as part of God's larger story change your perspective on current struggles or successes?
Day 4: Joyful Obedience to a Loving King
Obedience to Jesus stems from gratitude for His sacrifice, not from fear or guilt. This joyful surrender acknowledges His benevolent rule, trusting that His ways lead to life and freedom. [27:45]
Hebrews 12:1-2 - "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."
Reflection: Can you identify an area of your life where you struggle to obey joyfully? How can you shift your perspective to see obedience as a response to Jesus' love rather than a duty?
Day 5: Surrendering All to Jesus' Authority
The call to obedience is an invitation to surrender every aspect of life to Jesus' authority, recognizing His loving governance and releasing our resistance to His will. This surrender brings assurance of no condemnation for those in Christ. [38:55]
Colossians 3:17 - "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself resisting Jesus' authority? How can you begin to surrender this area to Him, and what practical steps can you take to do so?
Quotes
1) "Most fundamentally I think the Bible is a story of God interacting with the world, a true story of God interacting with the world." [04:27]
2) "What kind of King is Jesus? He was so humble that he came down to earth not just to Earth but as a human being, not just as a human being but as a slave, as a servant." [21:45]
3) "The kind of sacrifice that Jesus has for us, that's the kind of a king that we have in Jesus. I don't think any of us can really truly fathom and appreciate that kind of kingship." [24:22]
4) "Jesus's kingship is not just token kingship, Jesus's kingship is not just ceremonial kingship. There is this deep sense of obedience that Paul is trying to work out in the Philippian church." [27:06]
5) "The point is that we fuse together our obedience with our worship of him so that when we leave this place on Sunday morning, we don't go back to our lives and everything just looks the same." [29:27]
6) "Keith Green devoted all his energy, all his time, his musical talent to the Lord instead of for himself. His focus was no longer about his own musical career but now it was about encouraging others and worshiping Jesus." [31:25]
7) "If the core of the Gospel is that Jesus is King and Lord over this universe, then the flip side of that kingship is our obedience, our willing obedience to this King." [27:45]
8) "This King, he knows your life, he sees your life, he knows every aspect of your life, and this King has an opinion about your life and my life." [28:37]
9) "The point is not just for us to feel guilty and afraid, right? He's not the Assyrian Kings, he is a true king but he's a king who exercises his kingship through sacrifice and love." [29:27]
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