Tom Gibbons, general director of Gospel Missions of South America, reflects on Jesus' teaching that a disciple should be like his teacher, and that being like Christ brings contentment even amid suffering and persecution.
Scripture Text
Philippians 2:1-8; Matthew 10:24-25
Main Points or Ideas
- The Path to Contentment is Pursuing Christlikeness - Jesus said it is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher. True disciples are driven to emulate Christ in character and adopt His will as their own. This pursuit brings superlative contentment regardless of circumstances.
- When We're Christlike, Our Will is Submitted to God's Government - Jesus voluntarily set aside aspects of divine license, lordship, and likeness in His incarnation to do the Father's will. He found satisfaction in doing God's will rather than living in the center of His own will. We must ask ourselves who governs our will and what we're chasing after for satisfaction.
- When We're Christlike, Our Attitudes are Submitted to God's Government - Christ exemplified humility and obedience, which are the bedrock of all other godly attitudes. Humility acknowledges and obeys the one who is truly Lord, having a right view of ourselves as creatures, not creators. Our humility gives God freedom to lift us up and pour out His grace upon us. Christ's obedience was all-in, even to the point of death on a cross.
Conclusion
The true disciple will be maligned like Jesus was, but it is enough - it brings satisfaction and contentment - for the disciple to be like his teacher. The ongoing pursuit of Christ's likeness is the only path to contentment.
