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The Context of Philippians 2:5 NLT
The book of Philippians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Philippi, a city in Macedonia. In this letter, Paul encourages the believers in Philippi to imitate the humility and servanthood of Christ. In chapter 2, Paul presents Jesus Christ as the ultimate example of servanthood.
Philippians 2:5 NLT – The Verse
The key verse that encapsulates this theme is Philippians 2:5 NLT, which reads, “You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.” This verse sets the tone for the rest of the chapter, where Paul expounds on the humility and obedience of Christ.
The Attitude of Christ
In Philippians 2:6-11, Paul describes the attitude of Christ. He writes that Jesus, who was God in human form, did not consider his status as God something to be used to his own advantage. Instead, he emptied himself of his divine privileges and took on the form of a servant, becoming human and subjecting himself to death on a cross.
The Humility of Christ
The humility of Christ is a central theme in Philippians 2. Paul writes that Jesus “made himself nothing” and “humbled himself” (Philippians 2:7-8). This is a radical form of humility that goes beyond simply being modest or humble in speech. Christ’s humility was expressed in his willingness to become a servant and to suffer for the sake of others.
The Example of Christ
Paul presents Jesus as the ultimate example of servanthood. He writes that we should have the same attitude as Christ, who “did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28). Christ’s example challenges us to put others first and to live a life of sacrificial service.
The Call to Servanthood
The call to servanthood is a central theme in the New Testament. Jesus himself said that those who want to be great must become servants (Matthew 20:26-27). Paul echoes this sentiment in Philippians 2:3-4, where he writes, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
The Benefits of Servanthood
While it may seem counterintuitive, servanthood actually brings many benefits. When we put others first and seek to serve them, we experience a sense of purpose and fulfillment that cannot be found in self-centered pursuits. We also build stronger relationships and create a positive impact on the world around us.
The Challenge of Servanthood
Of course, servanthood is not easy. It requires us to set aside our own desires and preferences and to prioritize the needs of others. It often involves sacrifice and discomfort. But the rewards far outweigh the challenges. When we follow the example of Christ and become servants, we align ourselves with God’s purposes and experience the joy of bringing his love and grace to others.
Conclusion
Philippians 2:5 NLT is a powerful reminder of the ultimate example of servanthood. Jesus Christ, who was God in human form, humbled himself and became a servant, even to the point of death on a cross. His example challenges us to put others first and to live a life of sacrificial service. While servanthood is not easy, it brings many benefits and aligns us with God’s purposes for our lives. May we all strive to have the same attitude as Christ and to follow his example of servanthood.
