Title: Philippians 2: To Be Like Jesus Bible Study 

Introduction

In our quest to grow in our Christian faith and reflect on the character of Christ, the book of Philippians provides valuable insights on how to be more like Jesus. Through Paul’s teachings, we can explore four crucial points that guide us in our journey to become Christlike. In this second article going through the book of Philippians we find the importance of faith in our journey as Christians. 

Point 1: Pay it forward

Philippians 2:1-4 If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with 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 purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Philippians 2:1-4 reminds us to “do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit but, in humility, consider others better than yourselves.” As Christians, we’ve received an abundance of love, encouragement, tenderness, and compassion through our relationship with Christ. Therefore, our joy is complete when we replicate this love by being selfless, loving, and unified. This involves the following practicals: 

Giving Back

We’ve received immeasurable blessings as Christians, and it’s our duty to give back and share God’s love with others. From encouragement and comfort to the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, we’re called to be different from the world. This calls us not only to sacrifice financially to the church, but its taking time to give gifts, spending time with the brothers and sisters of the church. 

Dying to Self

True humility means not acting out of selfish ambition or pride. We should consider others’ interests and needs as more important than our own. Selflessness should be at the core of our actions and attitudes. Simply ask yourself, “When was the last time I did something for others?”

Practical Applications

Being selfless can be challenging in today’s world with its technological distractions. However, we’re called to listen actively, encourage others, and prioritise their needs. It’s essential to be aware of the selfish behaviors we engage in daily.

Point 2: The Standard is Christ

Philippians 2:5-11 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature 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!

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 confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

In Philippians 2:5-11, Paul emphasizes adopting Christ’s attitude, who “made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant.” This passage underscores that our mindset should mirror Jesus’s willingness to serve, even to the point of death.

A Christlike Attitude

To be Christlike, we must focus on selflessly serving others rather than elevating ourselves. Jesus set the perfect example by humbling himself and becoming obedient, even to death on a cross.

The Nature of a Servant

As servants, we wrap our schedules around God’s will, seek His guidance in every decision, and prioritize His desires. We should strive to align our interests with those of Jesus.

Hebrews 5:7-9 During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him

Humbling Ourselves

Humility is a conscious choice. Jesus exemplified it through obedience, and we’re called to do the same. This means putting others before ourselves and surrendering to God’s will.

Point 3: Take Personal Responsibility

Philippians 2:12-18 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed–not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence–continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.
Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life–in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.

Philippians 2:12-18 reiterates that we should “work out our salvation with fear and trembling.” We’re responsible for our spiritual growth, and it’s imperative to do everything without grumbling or arguing.

Your Salvation Is Your Responsibility

Ultimately, our salvation hinges on our commitment to God and our obedience. Complaining and arguing don’t contribute to spiritual growth but hinder it. We must all take responsibility and change, nothing is solved by constant blame-shifting and delaying repentance.

What I’ve Worked Out

Several practical steps can help us stay on track in our Christian journey. This includes: maintaining a strong relationship with God through daily scripture reading and prayer. How are your daily Bible studies and Prayer? Have they become ritualistic or are they inspiring?

Have a Good Heart

We should refrain from grumbling and arguing, focusing instead on our personal spiritual growth and serving others. By doing so, we shine as lights in a dark world.

Point 4: Characteristics of a Great Disciple

Philippians 2:19-30 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. I have no one else like him, who takes a genuine interest in your welfare. For everyone looks out for his own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon.

But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs. For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety. Welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor men like him, because he almost died for the work of Christ, risking his life to make up for the help you could not give me.  

In Philippians 2:19-30, Paul highlights two exceptional individuals: Timothy and Epaphroditus. These disciples provide valuable insights into the characteristics of great followers of Christ.

Timothy

Timothy was unique in his genuine care for others, reliability, strong relationship with Paul, and willingness to serve. His selflessness and eagerness to go wherever needed made him an exceptional disciple.

Epaphroditus

Epaphroditus was another remarkable disciple who took care of tasks, longed for others, risked his life for the Kingdom, and embraced the challenge of being sent anywhere. His dedication and willingness to serve exemplify what it means to be a great disciple.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey to be like Jesus encompasses several essential aspects. Firstly, it involves the concept of paying it forward, demonstrating kindness and love towards others as Jesus did. Secondly, the standard we strive for is Christ Himself. He is our ultimate example of humility, compassion, and righteousness. Thirdly, it is taking personal responsibility to actively act out His principles, making deliberate decisions to follow and reject worldly temptations. Lastly, becoming like Jesus means embodying the characteristics of a great disciple just as Timothy and Epaphroditus is to Paul. 

Our journey to become more like Christ is a lifelong endeavor. By embracing these four points from the book of Philippians, we can navigate this path with humility, selflessness, and unwavering faith. Ultimately, our goal is to reflect the character of Jesus, selflessly serve others, and bring glory to God through our lives.