Topical Encyclopedia The humility of Jesus Christ stands as a central theme in Christian theology, serving as a model for believers to emulate. This humility is vividly portrayed in the New Testament, particularly in the life, teachings, and sacrificial death of Jesus. The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Philippians, provides a profound exposition of Christ's humility, urging believers to adopt the same mindset.Philippians 2:5-8: In this passage, Paul exhorts the Philippians, "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross" . This text highlights several key aspects of Christ's humility: 1. Pre-existence and Divine Status: Jesus, existing in the form of God, did not cling to His divine privileges. His willingness to relinquish His status underscores the depth of His humility. 2. Self-Emptying (Kenosis): The term "emptied Himself" (Greek: kenosis) signifies Christ's voluntary renunciation of His divine rights. This self-emptying is not a loss of divinity but a setting aside of divine prerogatives to fully embrace human nature. 3. Servanthood: By taking the form of a servant, Jesus exemplified true humility. His life was marked by service to others, as He declared, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45). 4. Obedience unto Death: Christ's humility is further demonstrated in His obedience to the Father's will, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross. This ultimate act of humility and love serves as the foundation for Christian salvation. Matthew 11:29: Jesus invites His followers to learn from Him, saying, "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls" . Here, Christ's humility is linked with gentleness, offering a model for interpersonal relationships characterized by meekness and peace. John 13:1-17: The washing of the disciples' feet is another poignant illustration of Christ's humility. Despite being their Teacher and Lord, Jesus performed the menial task of washing feet, demonstrating that true leadership is rooted in humble service. He instructed His disciples, "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet" (John 13:14). 1 Peter 2:21-23: The Apostle Peter also points to Christ's humility in suffering, stating, "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps: 'He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth.' When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly" . Christ's response to suffering and injustice exemplifies a humble trust in God's righteous judgment. The humility of Christ is not merely an abstract concept but a practical example for believers. It calls for a life of self-denial, service, and obedience to God, reflecting the character of Christ in every aspect of life. Subtopics Example: Bad, Admonitions Against The Example of Christ is Perfect The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Progressive The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Being Guileless The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Being not of the World The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Benevolence The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Forgiving Injuries The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Holiness The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Humility The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Love The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Meekness The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Ministering to Others The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Obedience The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Overcoming the World The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Purity The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Righteousness The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Self-Denial The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Suffering for Righteousness The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Suffering Wrongfully The Example of Christ: Saints Predestinated to Follow Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |