“FOR CHRIST ALONE”
BUT made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men; 8) And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9) Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
PHILIPPIANS 2:7-9
This passage demonstrates with clarity that Jesus never laid aside His earthly ministry; rather, He emptied Himself of the prerogatives of His deity that He might offer redemption to a lost and depraved human race. The King of kings made Himself of no reputation. He never demanded the authority or position that were rightfully His.
Meditations upon the great passion and humility of Christ convince one that true authority is never grasped. God’s hand is active and evident in the life of the person who diligently serves other people, thereby earning, rather than requiring their respect. The Great Servant Leader possessed rather than commanded. His authority and status were attained in relationship with His Father rather than in response to the whims of the people. For Christ alone is the marching orders for those in God’s work, and yet experience teaches that people will judge and misinterpret the motives of those whose ministry is blessed and growing. Some even speak against God’s servants and accuse them of seeking status; however, it is a comfort to know that it is the Lord of lords, also misunderstood and rejected by men, who knows us, sees us, and examines our hearts attitudes towards Him.
-IBC
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