Title: The Mission of Christmas
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Philippians 2:5–8
Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (ESV)
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At the heart of Philippians 2:5–8 lies one of the most profound truths of the Christian faith: the incarnation of Jesus Christ. Paul calls the church to humility, unity, and selfless service, but he doesn’t root these commands in mere moral obligation. Instead, he anchors them in the very nature of Christ, who, though fully God, chose not to grasp at His divine rights. Instead, He emptied Himself—not by losing His divinity, but by adding humanity—and took on the form of a servant.
Jesus wasn’t pretending to serve; He embodied true servanthood while remaining fully God. His humility wasn’t a departure from His divine nature but a perfect display of it. This passage reveals that God is not a distant, reluctant king but one who delights in pouring Himself out for others. As followers of Christ, we’re called to adopt this same mindset—not grasping for our own glory, but serving others from the fullness we have received in Him. True Christian service flows not from obligation or self-promotion, but from worship rooted in the character of God Himself.
This is the mission of Christmas: God became man to serve and save, and His people are called to reflect that same humble, sacrificial love in their lives.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.
