Unity and Humility: Foundations of Christian Living
Summary
### Summary
Today, we reaffirmed our faith by reciting the Apostles' Creed, grounding ourselves in the core beliefs that have united Christians for centuries. We then delved into Philippians 2, focusing on the themes of unity and humility, which are essential to understanding who Christ is and how we should live as His followers. Unity, while important, is always secondary to what we unify around—Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes that our unity must be rooted in Christ and His teachings, not just any common cause.
We explored how true Christian unity is a reflection of the unity between Jesus and the Father, as Jesus prayed in John 17. This unity is not just about getting along but is deeply connected to the truth of who Christ is and what He has done for us. Paul also ties this unity to humility, urging us to consider others more significant than ourselves. This humility is not about self-hatred or weakness but about using our strengths to bless others, following the example of Christ.
In a world that often values pride and self-promotion, Christian humility stands in stark contrast. It begins with recognizing our need for God and submitting to His will. This humility makes genuine relationships with Christ and unity within the body of Christ possible. Paul challenges us to live out this humility in practical ways, considering others' needs and valuing them above our own.
As we navigate a culture that often promotes self-centered ideologies, especially during times like Pride Month, we are reminded that true Christian unity and humility are counter-cultural. We are called to build bridges to people while maintaining walls around the truths of the Gospel. This requires discipleship, growth in understanding, and a commitment to living out these principles in our daily lives.
### Key Takeaways
1. Unity Rooted in Christ: True Christian unity is always secondary to what we unify around—Jesus Christ. Our unity must be grounded in the truth of who Christ is and what He has done for us. Without this foundation, any form of unity is shallow and ultimately meaningless. [07:41]
2. The Power of Humility: Humility is not about self-hatred or weakness but about valuing others above ourselves and using our strengths to bless them. This Christ-like humility is essential for genuine relationships with God and unity within the church. [08:39]
3. Counter-Cultural Living: In a world that often promotes pride and self-centeredness, Christian humility and unity stand in stark contrast. We are called to live out these virtues, even when they go against the grain of societal norms. [29:36]
4. Building Bridges and Walls: Christian unity involves building bridges to people while maintaining walls around the truths of the Gospel. This means welcoming everyone to hear the message of Christ while not compromising on the core truths of our faith. [41:14]
5. Discipleship and Growth: True Christian unity requires ongoing discipleship and growth in understanding. We must continually seek to understand and live out the teachings of Christ, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform us and guide us in humility and love. [43:47]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:15] - Opening Prayer and Scripture Reading
[02:21] - Introduction to Philippians 2
[04:02] - The Importance of Unity
[05:10] - Jesus' Prayer for Unity
[06:52] - Unity: The Second Most Important Thing
[07:41] - Unity Rooted in Christ
[08:39] - The Power of Humility
[09:56] - Living Out Humility
[11:13] - Standing Firm in the Gospel
[12:14] - Foundation for Christian Unity
[13:06] - Encouragement in Christ
[13:59] - Comfort in God's Love
[14:42] - Participation in the Spirit
[15:39] - Fellowship with the Spirit
[16:40] - Unity Begins and Ends with Christ
[17:31] - The Reality of Christian Unity
[18:46] - Truth and Unity
[19:42] - Joy in Unity
[20:35] - Unity of Love and Mind
[21:23] - Unity in the New Testament
[22:13] - Seeing Through the Lens of Christ
[22:55] - Drawing Lines in the Sand
[23:40] - Everyone is Welcome Here
[24:32] - Avoiding Selfish Ambition
[25:09] - The Pursuit of Empty Glory
[25:53] - Relearning Life's Ambition
[26:27] - Humility in Action
[27:00] - Considering Others More Significant
[27:34] - Practical Humility
[28:05] - Humility in the Greco-Roman World
[29:00] - Nietzsche and Slave Morality
[29:36] - Humility vs. Cultural Norms
[30:12] - Biblical Vision of Humility
[30:57] - The Power of Humility in the Gospel
[31:41] - Humility and Relationship with Christ
[32:15] - Christ-like Humility
[32:43] - Using Strength to Bless Others
[33:28] - Valuing All People
[34:10] - Everyone is Welcome Here
[34:41] - The Need for Salvation and Transformation
[35:24] - Unity in the Spirit
[36:10] - Avoiding Selfishness
[36:49] - Bearing Witness to the World
[37:36] - Pride Month and Christian Teaching
[38:22] - The Christian Perspective on Pride
[39:21] - The Sin of Pride
[40:24] - C.S. Lewis on Humility
[41:14] - Building Bridges and Walls
[42:04] - The World's Opposite Approach
[42:56] - Unity in Christ
[43:47] - The Need for Discipleship
[44:33] - Building Humility
[45:23] - Conviction of Sin
[45:56] - Entering with a Humble Heart
[46:46] - Learning from Christ's Example
[47:38] - Christ's Humility and Sacrifice
[48:00] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Philippians 2:1-4
2. John 17:20-23
3. Psalm 133:1
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Philippians 2:1-4, what are the key elements that Paul emphasizes for Christian unity and humility?
2. In John 17:20-23, what does Jesus pray for concerning the unity of His followers?
3. How does Psalm 133:1 describe the experience of unity among believers?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Paul consider unity to be the "second most important thing" in Philippians 2:1-4? How does this relate to the foundation of unity in Christ? [06:52]
2. How does Jesus' prayer in John 17:20-23 connect the unity of believers to His relationship with the Father? What implications does this have for the church today? [05:10]
3. What does it mean to "count others more significant than yourselves" as stated in Philippians 2:3? How does this concept challenge cultural norms? [27:00]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own life: Are there areas where you prioritize unity over the truth of Christ? How can you ensure that your unity is always rooted in Christ? [07:41]
2. In what ways can you practice humility in your daily interactions? Think of a specific situation where you can value others above yourself this week. [08:39]
3. How can you build bridges to people while maintaining walls around the truths of the Gospel in your community? Share a practical example of how you might do this. [41:14]
4. During times like Pride Month, how can you live out the counter-cultural virtues of Christian humility and unity without compromising your faith? [29:36]
5. What steps can you take to grow in discipleship and understanding of Christ's teachings? Identify one area of your spiritual life where you need growth and make a plan to address it. [43:47]
6. How can you contribute to creating a welcoming environment in your church that invites everyone to meet Jesus while upholding the core truths of the Gospel? [34:10]
7. Think about a recent conflict or disagreement you had. How could you have approached it differently with a mindset of humility and unity in Christ? [27:34]
Devotional
Day 1: Unity Rooted in Christ
True Christian unity is always secondary to what we unify around—Jesus Christ. Our unity must be grounded in the truth of who Christ is and what He has done for us. Without this foundation, any form of unity is shallow and ultimately meaningless. Paul emphasizes that our unity must be rooted in Christ and His teachings, not just any common cause. This unity is a reflection of the unity between Jesus and the Father, as Jesus prayed in John 17. It is not just about getting along but is deeply connected to the truth of who Christ is and what He has done for us. [07:41]
Ephesians 4:4-6 (ESV): "There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
Reflection: Think about a group or community you are part of. How can you ensure that your unity with them is rooted in Christ and His teachings rather than just a common interest or cause?
Day 2: The Power of Humility
Humility is not about self-hatred or weakness but about valuing others above ourselves and using our strengths to bless them. This Christ-like humility is essential for genuine relationships with God and unity within the church. In a world that often values pride and self-promotion, Christian humility stands in stark contrast. It begins with recognizing our need for God and submitting to His will. This humility makes genuine relationships with Christ and unity within the body of Christ possible. Paul challenges us to live out this humility in practical ways, considering others' needs and valuing them above our own. [08:39]
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: Identify one person in your life whom you can serve selflessly this week. How can you use your strengths to bless them and show Christ-like humility?
Day 3: Counter-Cultural Living
In a world that often promotes pride and self-centeredness, Christian humility and unity stand in stark contrast. We are called to live out these virtues, even when they go against the grain of societal norms. This means welcoming everyone to hear the message of Christ while not compromising on the core truths of our faith. As we navigate a culture that often promotes self-centered ideologies, especially during times like Pride Month, we are reminded that true Christian unity and humility are counter-cultural. We are called to build bridges to people while maintaining walls around the truths of the Gospel. [29:36]
Romans 12:2 (ESV): "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
Reflection: Reflect on a recent situation where you felt pressured to conform to societal norms. How can you stand firm in your Christian values while still showing love and humility to others?
Day 4: Building Bridges and Walls
Christian unity involves building bridges to people while maintaining walls around the truths of the Gospel. This means welcoming everyone to hear the message of Christ while not compromising on the core truths of our faith. We are called to build bridges to people while maintaining walls around the truths of the Gospel. This requires discipleship, growth in understanding, and a commitment to living out these principles in our daily lives. [41:14]
1 Peter 3:15 (ESV): "But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect."
Reflection: Think of someone who holds different beliefs than you. How can you build a bridge to them while still maintaining the core truths of your faith?
Day 5: Discipleship and Growth
True Christian unity requires ongoing discipleship and growth in understanding. We must continually seek to understand and live out the teachings of Christ, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform us and guide us in humility and love. This means welcoming everyone to hear the message of Christ while not compromising on the core truths of our faith. We are called to build bridges to people while maintaining walls around the truths of the Gospel. This requires discipleship, growth in understanding, and a commitment to living out these principles in our daily lives. [43:47]
Colossians 1:9-10 (ESV): "And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God."
Reflection: What is one area of your spiritual life where you feel you need growth? How can you take a step towards discipleship and deeper understanding this week?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "God does not love you because you have achieved certain things. God does not love you because you have become a certain kind of person. He does not love you because you have become lovable. He loves you because he has put his image in you. And he just loves you. And if you are a follower of Jesus Christ. You have accepted that love. And your life is filled with that love. And guided by that love." [14:42] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "It is hard to find encouragement outside of the body of Christ. Especially an encouragement that lasts. So as followers of Christ, we recognize where the grounding of our courage comes from. It is in Christ, Paul says. We find it with one another. As we live this life as Christians with each other. So because we find encouragement in Christ, we are unified." [13:06] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Everyone is welcome here. Physically inside of this church. Absolutely everybody is called here. Invited to show up. And to worship God. And to hear the story. And the gospel of Jesus Christ. And to respond. And to have the Holy Spirit transform their lives. Everyone is invited to walk in. And I want everyone in this church. To have that mentality. About everyone else who walks into this building. That we want everyone who walks into this building. To meet Jesus Christ." [34:10] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Christian unity builds bridges to people. And walls around ideas. It builds bridges to people. And walls around ideas. It builds walls around ideas. Everyone is welcome, invited, encouraged to show up and meet Jesus Christ. To become part of the church. To meet him. Be saved and transformed by the work of Jesus Christ. Not all ideas and behaviors are welcome. And that begins with me. We build bridges to people. And we build walls around ideas." [41:14] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Unity is the second most important thing. Why do I put it like that? Because people can be unified about anything. People can find a group of like-minded individuals. They can find a group of folks who see life the same way that they do. And they can find some version of unity or they would co-labor alongside one another. For all kinds of things. You can find a really interesting form of unity at a sporting event. Everybody's in the same jersey and shouting and yelling at the same time. There's a unique kind of unity that is there." [06:52] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Humility is a surprisingly powerful virtue. It's very easy to have negative stereotypes of humility. And even the more we think about it and talk about it, it's actually kind of easy to grow a little bit confused about what humility is, how we live it out, how we express it, how we recognize it in other people. But Paul is very specific. And he uses humility to talk about it. He's going to talk about our lives with each other. And then he's going to use this concept of humility of all things. He's going to use the idea of humility to lead us directly to the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ." [08:39] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Christian unity draws a line in the sand. About what is true. About what is false. Christian unity is not the same thing as saying. Everything is true and everything is okay. That's not Christian unity. We draw lines in the sand about things that are true. And about things that are false. And as Paul has told us. We will stand with the truth. While simultaneously calling out for everyone to come and believe in Jesus Christ." [22:55] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Humility is where the Christian begins. He's cutting directly against the grain of his culture. This is a vision that's given to God's people. Inside of the Old Testament. It's not just the new. God tells us in the Old Testament. Isaiah chapter 66. Verse 2. Verse 2. Verse 2. The one to whom I will look. He who is humble. And contrite in spirit. And trembles at my word. When we come in contact. With God. Or the power of his word. The only proper response is humility. Is to submit ourselves to the power of God. The goodness of Christ. The truth of his word." [30:12] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Ask God to convict you of sin. The act itself is a humble act. God knows and I don't. God is holy and I am not. God is righteous and I am not. See if there be any wicked way inside of me. The psalmist prays. And so we do the same. We ask God to convict us of sin. And when God does that. When he reveals these things. It is grace. Conviction is a gift from God. And it humbles. It humbles us before God. And it humbles us inside of the body of Christ as well." [45:23] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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