- Matt demonstrated the times in which Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians as a step ladder. The rich and powerful and people of influence were seen as at the top of the ladder. It was a place most wanted to be and even cunning and deceitful practices were seen as virtuous as long as you made it to the top. This included lots of self-promotion and self-congratulations as acceptable behavior in order to display one’s accomplishments. What were your first thoughts when you heard this? Could you relate to this or did this go counter to what you are used to?
- Philippians 2:3-11(NIV) was the main text of the message. The first verses tell us to, “Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” In the time which Paul lived, humility was not necessarily a positive word. However, this word was used 270 times in the New Testament in a positive way. What clue does this give you as to the way Jesus lived His life and the example He wants us to follow? Verse 5, we are challenged to “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus…” How does this verse tie in with the idea of humility in a positive way?
- After reading Philippians 2:3-11, Jesus shows us “the way up the ladder is actually down!” As strange as that may sound, what do believe is meant by that? Can you give examples in your life or in the life of others demonstrating some truth in that phrase?
- Matt asked a final question that is very challenging and thought provoking: “Have we cultivated the identity of a servant?” Take some time to unwrap that question. How can we know we are working toward this? Will we ever perfect being a servant? How does having the mindset of Christ help us on this journey?
