(a) What was Paul's teaching on humility in his letter to the Philippians? [9 marks] (b) In what three ways is this teaching relevant to Christians? [6 mark...

Answer Details

(a) Paul's teaching on humility in his letter to the Philippians (Philippians 2:1-11)

• Paul appealed to the Philippians, on the basis of their encouragement in Christ and fellowship in the Spirit, to be of the same mind, having the same love and being in full accord.
• He urged them to do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility to count others better (more significant) than themselves.
• Each should look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.
• He set forth Christ as the supreme example of humility: though He was in the form of God, He did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped.
• Instead He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.
• Being found in human form, He humbled Himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross.
• Therefore God has highly exalted Him and given Him the name above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
• The lesson is that true greatness comes through humility and self-giving service, and that God exalts the humble.

(b) Three ways this teaching is relevant to Christians

• It promotes humble service: Christians should serve one another selflessly, following Christ's example rather than seeking personal glory.
• It fosters unity and peace: counting others better than oneself removes rivalry, pride and division in the church and society.
• It teaches obedience and assurance of reward: as God exalted the obedient, humble Christ, believers are encouraged to be obedient and humble, trusting that God will honour them.