How to learn humility from Jesus

Aim:  To trust the Holy Spirit to reveal again the personality of Jesus and cause us to walk in the reality of what he has shown us.

Text: Philippians 2:1-11, John 13:1-17

Introduction:   Jesus  who  is  our   perfect   example  in   all   things  showed  us  an  example  of  the highest form of humility when He being God came as man, He did not consider equality with God something to be grasped (held on to), but made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant being made in human likeness and humble Himself to obedience unto death on the cross. His nature of meekness (gentleness) is seen in Him being the lamb of God. meekness does not denote weakness but strength, and a meek person is in control of himself, not insisting on his own way but reaching out in kindness for the good of others and this is a quality Jesus exhibited and he expects us to follow in His example (Luke 22:42).  God lifts up the lowly, saves the humble and gives the meek His grace but resists the proud. The human nature is prone to pride but just as Jesus who has left our infirmities as a man overcame it and humbled Himself, He expects it from us. 

Questions for discussion

1.   From Philippians 2:2-4, what is Humility? (a) selflessly using what God has given us to benefit others (b) Thinking of others as better  (c) Agreeing wholeheartedly with each other  (d) walking together with one mind and purpose.

2.   How can we practice humility? (a) A gentle spirit wins people to Christ –pet. 3:1-4, Prov. 25:15, prov.15:1 (b) clothe ourselves with humility –col. 3:12, 1 pet. 5:5-6 (c) Be open and sincere and don’t fake it –col. 2:18,3 (d) Walk humbly with God daily –Eph. 4:,1pet. 5:5, Micah 6:8 (e) Consider others better – Phil. 2:3.

3.   What are the benefits of Humility? (a) God saves the humble -1cor. 1:26-29 (b) God blesses the meek and humble –is. 66:2, matt. 5:5 (c)  God embraces them –James 4:6, Prov. 3:34 (d) With humility comes wisdom –prov.11:2 (e) God leads and teaches them –PSA. 25:9 (f) Brings exaltation –Phil. 2:9, Matt. 23:12,  Luke 1:52.

4.   Example of Jesus humility  (a) In His coming to earth -2cor. 8:9 (b) In  His lowliness –Matt. 11:29 (c) In His life of service –luke 22:27 (d)  In His submission to God’s will –john 6:38-39 (e) In His suffering –is. 53:1-9 (f) In His washing of His disciple's feet –john 13:4-5 (g) In His triumphant entry to Jerusalem –matt.21:5,7 (h) In His death on the cross –Phil. 2:5-8.

Conclusion:  Humility and meekness often may involve a childlike attitude and complete letting go of self and opinions (matt.18:1-4). In other to do this, one has to be submissive before God, seek His face in prayers and walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8). Therefore, it is expedient that we clothe ourselves with the garment of humility and be lowly in the heart just like Jesus, in other for us to learn of Him and be like Him.

Reflection: Coat yourself with the garment of humility and see how God lifts you up.