Philippians 2:5-11 – A Philippian Christmas
Christmas With Paul #2 – A Complete Lesson
At Christmastime we think of Jesus as a baby. What are some of the things about Jesus that folks tend to forget, especially at Christmas?
To you, what were the three or four most significant events in the life of the Lord Jesus?
At this time of year, how can we help others see Jesus as more than just a babe born in Bethlehem?
We are considering Christmas with Paul. In this study we are looking at what Paul had to say about the whole life of Jesus from before He was born through to now. Paul certainly shows us that Christmas is more than just a baby.
Vs. 5 – The context of what Paul is talking about here is unity. Paul wanted the Philippians to stop petty bickering, and to be unified. Philippians 2:1-4 explains Paul’s appeal nicely. Based on this appeal, in Verse 5 Paul gives the challenge that the person who believes on Christ should have the mind of Christ, or the attitude of Christ.
In talking about the mind or attitude of Christ we find the message of Christmas.
THE HOME OF THE SON OF GOD – Vs. 6
- When did Jesus begin to exist? John 1:1-2
- What significant thing(s) did Jesus do before coming to earth? Colossians 1:16
- This word “form” refers to the “inner, essential, and abiding nature of a person or thing.” What does this tell you about the identity of Jesus?
- What are some things we can be selfish about?
- According to this verse, how was Jesus not selfish?
- What do you think it was like for Jesus to live in Heaven?
THE HUMILITY OF THE SON OF GOD – Vss. 7-8a
- But made himself of no reputation… means that he “emptied himself”. What did He empty Himself of?
- In His lifetime, how did Jesus show Himself to be a servant?
- How did becoming a man automatically make Jesus a servant?
THE HUMILIATION OF THE SON OF GOD – Vs. 8b
- How do we know that obedience to God was important to the Lord Jesus?
- In what ways was the Lord Jesus humiliated when He died for our sins? Isaiah 53:3-6
- Why was the cross such a terrible thing?
THE HONOR OF THE SON OF GOD – Vss. 9-11
- Why has God exalted the Lord Jesus? Isaiah 53:11-12
- How has God exalted the Lord Jesus right now? Hebrews 4:14
- Name some of the specific people who are going to bow the knee to Jesus, who probably thought that they never would.
- How will the confession by every person that ever lived that Jesus Christ is Lord bring glory to God the Father?
- How should this future bowing and confession affect my attitude this Christmas?
- How should this future bowing and confession affect my lifestyle?
- How should this future bowing and confession affect my witnessing?
