Definition: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really powerful verse from Philippians 2:8. It's often quoted and can seem complex, but it’s really about how Jesus lived his life and what we should strive for. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse says that when Jesus was alive, he didn’t try to be important or powerful in his own way. Instead, he changed himself to become like us – to live a life of humility and obedience. Let's unpack it word by word: “And being found in fashion as a man…” - This means Jesus wasn’t trying to hide his true identity or act like a regular person. He presented himself with a look, demeanor, and way of behaving that was appropriate for a human being. “…he humbled himself…” - This is the key part. Humble means letting go of your own importance and standing down. Jesus took on a very low position, showing respect to everyone. "...and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” – This is where it gets really significant. “Obedient” means following God’s rules and commands. “To death” means willingly giving up your life for something bigger than yourself. And "the death of the cross" refers to Jesus' sacrifice on a wooden cross. So, what does this all mean? It means that Jesus didn’t just talk about being humble; he lived it! He took a very low position – showing respect and obedience – and willingly gave up his life for our salvation. It's a powerful message about: Submission to God: Jesus showed us that we should follow His teachings, even when it’s difficult. Sacrifice of Love: He sacrificed himself for our sins and our brokenness. Living a Life of Faith: It’s not enough to just say you believe. It’s about doing good, living righteously, and showing love through your actions. In short, the verse encourages us to be humble, obedient, and willing to sacrifice for others – just like Jesus did. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Give an example of how we can apply this principle today?