New Covenant Church Streatham

Unity through Humility

Key Bible Verse: Philippians‬2:1-3‬NKJV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

1. Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy 2. Fulfil my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3.Letnothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself4.Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.

Introduction

Humility does not come naturally, it is learned. Learning to be humble should begin at home and be expressedthrough lifelong relationship with others. From teachings of the Bible, humility is an essential Christian character, and the extent to which a believer is humble is a reflection of their growth and maturity. Associated with humility are pertinent character traits such as being teachable, obedience, consideration for others, modesty, showing appreciation and willingness to serve.

1. Discuss the real meaning of humility.What do you understand by the following themesand what purposes do they serve among believers?

a)Overlooking offence (Proverbs 12:16, Proverbs 19:11, 1 Peter 4:8)

b)Putting others first (Matthew 20:20-27,Mark 9:33-35, Philippians 2:3-4)

c)Selfless service (Galatians 5:13, Galatians 6:7-10, Hebrews 6:9-10)

d)Submission (Ephesians 5:18-24, Romans 12:9-10, 1 Peter 2:13-21)

e)Turning the other cheek (Matthew 5:38-48, Romans 12:17-21, 1 Peter 2:21-23)

2. From the examples given, discuss practical ways to overcome elements of pride which are highlighted in 1 John 2:15-17

a)The lust of the eyes (Adam & Eve, David & Bathsheba, Jesus tempted by Satan)

b)The lust of the flesh (Reuben & Bilhah, Amnon & Tamar, Potiphar’s wife & Joseph)

c)The pride of life (The fall of Lucifer, Cain killed Abel, King Herod’s death)

3.Here are some benefits of humility, discuss other benefits

a)It fosters unity in relationship(Psalm 133:1, Ephesians 4:1-3, Philippians‬2:1-4)‬

b)To receive God’s graceand attention (Proverbs 3:34, Isaiah 66:1-2; 1 Peter 5:5)

c)It leads to provision and promotion (Proverbs 22:4, Philippians 2:5-11, 1 Peter 5:6)

Conclusion

Although, contemporary culture favours putting one’s own interests first and looking out for number one – humility or meekness is not be confused with weakness. Rather, meekness is to have strength under control, to be tame but not timid. True humility reflects confidence and self-esteem as opposed to pride and arrogance which many times conceals a lack of confidence and insecurity. Our perfect example is Jesus who did not insist on His own rights and desires but put the needs of the church above His own.