Exalted Service
Philippians 2 contains powerful themes and a rich content which hold timeless relevance for Christians today. This chapter is a masterful blend of theological depth and practical exhortation, urging believers to emulate the humility and selflessness of Christ. As I meditate on this passage, I find it brimming with lessons that can transform our lives, drawing on other scriptures, hymns, and sermons to underscore its messages.
The chapter opens with a call to unity and humility. Paul writes, “If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” (Philippians 2:1-2) This plea for unity is rooted in our shared experience of Christ’s love and the Holy Spirit’s presence. Paul is not merely asking for outward conformity but for a deep, heart-level unity characterized by love and mutual care.
The next verses, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves” (Philippians 2:3), strike at the heart of human pride. Paul’s words remind me of Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 23:12, “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” This radical call to humility is countercultural, especially in our self-centered world.
The Christ hymn in Philippians 2:5-11 is the centerpiece of the chapter and a profound source of inspiration. Paul exhorts, “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: 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.” (Philippians 2:5-7) This passage paints a vivid picture of the incarnation, where Jesus, though fully divine, chose to embrace human form and live as a servant.
The theme continues, “And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:8) Jesus’ ultimate act of humility and obedience, His sacrificial death, is the cornerstone of our faith. As the 19th-century hymn “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” by Isaac Watts poignantly expresses, “Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.” This hymn, like Philippians 2, calls us to respond to Christ’s love with complete devotion and selflessness.
Paul concludes with the exaltation of Christ: “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” (Philippians 2:9-11). This glorification of Jesus serves as a powerful reminder that humility and obedience lead to true exaltation in God’s kingdom, aligning with Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 20:26-27, “…whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave.”
The practical implications of Philippians 2 for us is profound. We are called to live with the same humility and selflessness that Christ demonstrated. As Charles Spurgeon, the famed 19th-century preacher, once said in a sermon, “Humility is to make a right estimate of oneself.” This means recognizing our need for God’s grace and valuing others above ourselves. It is a call to serve rather than to be served, echoing Jesus’ own life and ministry.
Additionally, Philippians 2 challenges us to foster unity within the body of Christ. John Wesley, in his sermon “Catholic Spirit,” emphasized the importance of unity and love among Christians, regardless of denominational differences. He urged believers to embrace a spirit of humility and cooperation, reflecting the unity for which Paul so passionately advocates.
The chapter also calls us to live out our salvation with “fear and trembling.” (Philippians 2:12) This isn’t a call to live in fear but to approach our faith with a serious commitment and reverence. It is a reminder that our actions matter and that we are to live in a manner worthy of the gospel. This aligns with Paul’s exhortation in Ephesians 4:1, “…live a life worthy of the calling you have received.”
Philippians 2 is a rich tapestry of theological insight and practical exhortation. It calls us to embody the humility and selflessness of Christ, fostering unity and love within the Christian community. It challenges us to live out our faith with reverence and commitment. As we meditate on this chapter and its messages, we are reminded that the path to true greatness in God’s kingdom is through humility, service, and obedience, following the example of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
In what ways can you and I put into practice these truths in our daily walk with Christ?
JG