Name of Jesus – Philippians 2:1-11
“He Gave Up His Rights On Purpose”

“You must have the same attitude that Jesus Christ had” (Philippians 2:4, NLT)

Especially here in America, we are extremely preoccupied about getting our rights and making sure they are not being violated.  Sadly, few are concerned about other peoples’ rights; it’s all about their own.  We each want to make sure we get at least our fair share of the pie.  It’s our right.

So when Paul writes “Let this mind or attitude be in you which was also in Christ Jesus;” he is talking about a radically different mindset than the rest of the world.  Humans are born self-centered.  Advertisers depend on this when they say:  “We had you in mind.”

Jesus gave up his rights as the Son of God on purpose.  He was not a victim, No one was able to take them from him.  He gave up his rights intentionally.  The NIV translates this verse:  “He made himself nothing.”  Paul says that for the sake of others, we should have this same mind set.  This doesn’t mean we don’t have a backbone to stand up for what is right, but we’re not willing to hurt people to get our own rights.  Instead trust in a God who has the power and authority to make the final judgment and right all wrong.

Because of what Jesus did for us, God the Father steps in with the final verdict on Jesus.

“Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on the earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:9-11, NLT)

Prayer song:  “Make me a servant Oh Lord I pray.  Help me to show someone the way.”

– Pastor Stephen Floyd, First Church of the Nazarene, Falls City