The humility of Jesus is a profound and central theme in Christian theology, reflecting His character and mission. This humility is evident in His incarnation, life, teachings, and sacrificial death. The humility of Jesus serves as a model for believers, calling them to emulate His example in their own lives.

Incarnation and Birth

The humility of Jesus is first demonstrated in His incarnation. The Apostle Paul captures this in Philippians 2:6-7 : "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." Jesus, though fully divine, chose to take on human flesh, entering the world in the most humble of circumstances. Born in a manger in Bethlehem (Luke 2:7), His birth was announced not to the powerful and elite, but to shepherds in the fields (Luke 2:8-14).

Life and Ministry

Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus consistently demonstrated humility. He associated with the lowly and marginalized, including tax collectors, sinners, and the poor (Matthew 9:10-13). Jesus taught His disciples about the importance of humility, saying, "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave" (Matthew 20:26-27). He exemplified this teaching by washing the feet of His disciples, a task typically reserved for the lowest servant (John 13:1-17).

Teachings on Humility

Jesus' teachings often highlighted the virtue of humility. In the Beatitudes, He proclaimed, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:3). He warned against pride and self-exaltation, teaching that "everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 14:11). Through parables, such as the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14), Jesus illustrated the value of a humble heart before God.

Passion and Crucifixion

The ultimate expression of Jesus' humility is found in His passion and crucifixion. Despite possessing all authority, He submitted to the will of the Father, praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, "Not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42). Jesus endured mockery, scourging, and a humiliating death on the cross, bearing the sins of humanity. As Paul writes in Philippians 2:8 , "And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross."

Resurrection and Exaltation

Following His humble submission to death, Jesus was exalted by God. Philippians 2:9-11 states, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." This exaltation underscores the divine approval of His humility and obedience.

Implications for Believers

The humility of Jesus is not only a historical and theological truth but also a call to action for His followers. Believers are encouraged to adopt the same mindset as Christ, as Paul exhorts in Philippians 2:5 : "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus." This involves serving others selflessly, valuing others above oneself, and living in obedience to God's will. Jesus' humility is a timeless example that challenges and inspires Christians to live lives marked by humility and service.