United in Purpose: Embracing Humility and Joy in Philippians 2. 10 August 2023

We have been reading through Philippians as a church and we got to Philippians 2 where I saw the remarkable overlap between unity, humility and joy and connected the dots to how God has designed us to work the way that Paul has instructed us.
Here is an email that I sent out with our Bible readings this week.

Hello everyone,
It's a joy to be sharing this journey with you as we unpack the riches of Philippians 2. This chapter holds a tapestry of insights that can profoundly shape our faith and perspective. So, let's roll up our sleeves and venture into its depths!

The Heart of Selflessness

At the core of this chapter, we encounter a concept that truly captivates the heart. Paul, the apostle, has delved into a deep well of wisdom. He isn't merely offering instructions; he's weaving together a blend of ideas and practical guidance. He's inviting us to ponder the essence of the gospel, not as a distant notion, but as a vibrant way of living.
Right from the start, we're confronted with the notion of self-emptying, a concept that invites us to recalibrate our hearts and minds. Imagine being told, "Take a look at this: Jesus went all in for others." This self-emptying act isn't just a historical event; it's a model for us. It serves as a bridge that connects the life of Jesus with our lives, inviting us to reframe our perspectives and reorder our priorities.

"In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:" (Philippians 2:5, NIV)

Active Participants in the Story

Paul isn't content with letting us be mere observers in this narrative. He urges us to be active participants. He takes us on a journey through Jesus' path of humility, leading us to the heart of the gospel – the very apex of humility and love. Jesus didn't reluctantly embrace humility; he chose it willingly. His selflessness isn't just a distant example; it's a blueprint for us, an invitation to align our lives with the rhythm of his sacrificial love.

"Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness." (Philippians 2:6-7, NIV)

Unity Woven In

As we journey further, we come across the thread of unity that runs through this chapter. It's not merely about agreeing on everything; it's about something deeply ingrained in our design. Our brain cells resonate in harmony when we engage in healthy relationships. Paul's call for unity isn't a mere suggestion; it's like a symphony of connections occurring within us. Our brains seem to whisper, "This is how we're wired!"

"Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind." (Philippians 2:2, NIV)

Unity and Humility: Intertwined

Interestingly, unity and humility go hand in hand. Paul isn't throwing out random ideas. When we embrace humility, our brains respond in fascinating ways. There's a hormone called oxytocin that acts as a bonding agent. Acts of humility release oxytocin, fostering closeness and connection. It's almost like our brains reward us for embracing humility!

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves," (Philippians 2:3, NIV)

Joy from Unity and Humility

All these threads culminate in the birth of joy. But it's not just any joy; it's a deep-rooted, soul-satisfying joy. This joy springs from living out unity and humility, seamlessly woven into the narrative of the gospel. It isn't fleeting like a passing emotion; it's deeply rooted in our very design for relationships.

"Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life." (Philippians 2:15-16a, NIV)

As we wrap up our journey through Philippians 2, let's carry these insights with us. We're not merely hearing disconnected truths; we're weaving them into the fabric of our lives. Let's embrace unity, practice humility, and let this joy flow from the core of our being. It's like a beautiful dance – a rhythm of unity, humility, and joy. Let's live it out, allowing our minds to resonate with the melody of Jesus' character.

"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," (Philippians 2:12, NIV)

So, let's hear this call to unity, humility, and joy. In doing so, we're not just engaging in a cerebral exercise; we're living out the heart of the gospel – a life woven together in purposeful harmony.

Let's journey on, united in purpose.

["For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose." (Philippians 2:13, NIV)]