Lesson 3 - Paul's Guide to Joy Part 2

Let's take a look at Chapter 2 of Paul's letter to the Philippians (verses 1-11). Please, read it in at least two different versions.

I just love this chapter! When people ask me what it truly means to be a Christian, I often refer them to this chapter. Being a Christian, is being "Christ-like", and this tells us ever so clearly how we are to lay our own thoughts, desires, plans down and put on the same attitude as Jesus Christ.

Take a good look at verses 5-8, and let's answer some questions:

1. Jesus was one with the Father and gave it all up for us.
[ ] True [ ] False

2. Because Jesus was also God, He demanded that all serve Him and tend to His needs
[ ] True [ ] False

3. Jesus was a very proud man.
[ ] True [ ] False

4. Do I truly understand what these verses mean?
[ ] Yes [ ] No

Explain:

May this be a time of deep soul searching - let it be an honest reflection of where you are in your own Christian walk.

Please, take a moment and write out verses 5-8 in your own words:

Okay . . . here is Jesus, Who is also God, equal with the Father, come to join us here on earth in human form and He puts all aside! He gives and gives and gives of Himself. He teaches, He loves, He serves! He is not demanding, He is not bossy, He does not "lord it over" anyone. He puts everyone elses needs above His own and walks in love.

5. Do I put others first?

6. Do I serve others?

7. Do I demand my own way?

8. In what areas do I need to become more like Christ in accordance with these verses?

By now, you are probably thinking "what in the world does this have to do with walking and living joyfully?", well, let me tell you! EVERYTHING - why? Take a look, again, at the very begining of this chapter. Paul states that by the Philippians becoming more like Christ - his joy would be complete. Think about that.List out some of the things (i.e. actions and attitudes of others) in and around your life that would bring you joy:

If you are like most, your list may include things like "more kindness", "people being more thoughtful", etc. Well, if all of us were to take on the attitude of Christ, as presented here by Paul, we would be loving and serving our Lord by loving and serving others. This is fellowship as it was intended! We draw closer to Him, become more like Him, start loving on others, and our joy becomes full to overflowing! Our relationship so rich and sweet with the Lord! (not to mention, the richer and sweeter relationships we can have with others around us!)