Serving Like Christ
The Virtue of Humility in the Local Congregation
Serving Like Christ
The Virtue of Humility
In Philippians 2:2-11, Paul gives an exhortation to the brethren at Philippi, calling upon them to "fulfil [his] joy" by being likeminded, having the same love, and being of one accord and one mind. These qualities of unity and brotherly love, however, are rooted in a much deeper virtue: the humility of mind that esteems others better than self (Philippians 2:3). In this passage, Paul points the brethren to the highest example of humble service—the example of Christ Himself.
The Example of Christ’s Humility
Paul’s description of Christ’s humility in Philippians 2:5-8 stands as a beacon for all believers. Paul instructs, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." This command is not merely an intellectual call but a spiritual charge to embody the same mindset of humility and submission that characterized the life of Christ. Though Christ "being in the form of God" (Philippians 2:6) had all the rights and privileges of divinity, He "made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men" (Philippians 2:7).
Here, we see a perfect picture of voluntary submission. Christ, who could have held onto His divine position, chose instead to humble Himself. The language Paul uses emphasizes the condescension of Christ—He "emptied" Himself of His divine privileges and assumed the form of a servant. This was no ordinary act of service, for Christ’s humility led Him not only to become a man but to become "obedient unto death, even the death of the cross" (Philippians 2:8). Such an act of humility is unparalleled and serves as the ultimate model for all Christians, especially in the local congregation.
Humility in the Congregation: Serving Rather Than Being Served
As members of the Lord’s church, we must always bear in mind that the essence of Christian living is not found in seeking to be served but in serving others, just as Christ served. Paul calls on the brethren to "look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others" (Philippians 2:4). This statement reminds us that the Christian life is not one of self-interest but of self-sacrifice. Too often, individuals within the local congregation fall into the trap of expecting to be served rather than taking the initiative to serve.
Christ’s words in Matthew 20:28, "The Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many," echo Paul’s teaching in Philippians. The church must be a place where members seek the good of others above their own desires. This kind of service requires the same humility that Paul describes in Philippians 2:3, "in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves." When each member views others with the same regard that Christ showed, the result is a congregation marked by unity, peace, and love.
The Path to Exaltation Through Humility
It is important to note that humility is not an end in itself. Paul concludes his description of Christ’s humility with a note of exaltation: "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name" (Philippians 2:9). Christ’s submission and obedience were rewarded by God with the highest honor. This serves as a pattern for Christians. James 4:10 echoes this truth: "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up."
In the context of the local congregation, we must never serve with an eye toward recognition or reward, but we must trust that God, who sees all, will exalt the humble in His time. Christ’s exaltation came after His suffering and death, and our honor will come not from man but from God when we walk in the humility of Christ.
Serving in the Congregation: Practical Considerations
What does it mean, practically, to serve in the local congregation? It means being willing to take on the roles and tasks that often go unnoticed. It means offering a hand of encouragement to a struggling brother, preparing meals for the sick, and visiting those who cannot attend services. It also means being willing to teach and admonish one another (Colossians 3:16), understanding that serving in the kingdom is not confined to physical needs but extends to spiritual edification.
Paul’s command in Galatians 6:2, "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ," perfectly encapsulates what service looks like in the body of Christ. As we look to Christ as the ultimate example, we see that no service is too lowly. Christ washed the feet of His disciples (John 13:5-15), setting a powerful example for His followers. If the Lord of glory could take on such a humble task, there is no service too menial for His disciples.
Conclusion
Paul’s exhortation in Philippians 2 calls us to a higher standard of service—one that mirrors the humility and sacrifice of Christ. In the local congregation, we must strive to be like our Lord, not seeking our own honor but looking to the good of others. When we serve with the heart of Christ, we reflect His love to the world, and God is glorified.
As we contemplate Paul’s words, let us commit ourselves to be servants in the church. In every congregation, unity, love, and peace will grow when each member humbly seeks to serve rather than be served. Christ’s example is our perfect guide, and through following His steps, we fulfill our calling as His disciples.