Reading Paul, Hearing Jesus (GEPC)
Philippians 2:1-11
Paul describes the life of following Jesus. Jesus shows us the example. We can’t die for the sins of others, but we can live with his love and humility. It’s called being a Christian.
Monday, June 16
Read Philippians 2:1-11. Paul repeats the word “any:” “Any encouragement, “any comfort,” “any participation,” “any affection and sympathy.” Are the unity, love and humility of Jesus the goal or the starting line of the Christian life? Why do you resist loving others as Jesus loved you?
Tuesday, June 17
After reviewing Philippians 2:1-11, read John 15. Jesus kept the Father’s commandments. Jesus said that when we keep his commandments, then we live in his love. What is that commandment? Give some examples of when selfless love was shown to you. Confess to God those times when you failed to show that kind of love.
Wednesday, June 18
After reviewing Philippians 2:1-11, read John 1:1-18. According to Paul, Jesus was “in the form of God.” What does that mean? Why would Jesus humble himself? How does John 1 help us with these questions? What other similarities do you find between John 1 and Philippians 2?
Thursday, June 19
After reviewing Philippians 2:1-11, read Matthew 20:20-28. Our disposition is to be the same as that of Jesus. We are to be humble servants. How did Jesus serve? How are we to serve? What struggles to you have with humility?
Friday, June 20
After reviewing Philippians 2:1-11, read Matthew 26:36-46. Did Jesus want to suffer as he did? Jesus was “obedient to the point of death.” When does God ask us to do things that we wouldn’t rather do? Why does he ask that of us? What are your barriers to obedience?
Saturday, June 21
After reviewing Philippians 2:1-11, read Matthew 28. How is Jesus “exalted?” What is it about the “name of Jesus” that is above every name? Jesus mentions that “all authority” had been given to him. What does Jesus commission us to do in our humble service to him?
Bethel Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN – bethelstpaul.com