Day 38 - FOUNDATION STONES IN A YEAR

Reading: Philippians 2: 6-11

We’re looking for evidence that the Bible actually teaches that Jesus is God, and we need look no further than our main reading for today. In fact, this passage provides us with an incredible cycle – the God-human-God cycle that represents the reality of who Jesus is. 

Let’s have a look at this passage together. Can you see the humanity and Deity of Christ? 

Philippians 2: 6-11

Who, being in very nature[a] God,
    did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
7 rather, he made himself nothing
    by taking the very nature[b] of a servant,
    being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
    he humbled himself
    by becoming obedient to death—
        even death on a cross!

9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
    and gave him the name that is above every name,
10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
    in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
    to the glory of God the Father.

This passage is in fact a liturgical description of Jesus’ willingness to humble Himself for our sake. Rather than coming first as God and King, Jesus freely took on the form of a human being. He was humiliated and oppressed, following the will of the Father, in order to be the sacrifice for our sins. 

However, that is not the end of the story. Because of His humble obedience, God exalted Him and gave Him the highest name – so much so, that in the end, every human being will acknowledge that Jesus is Lord (God). 

Paul writes what was the common teaching in the early Church, that Jesus is in “very nature, God”. You really can’t argue with such a straightforward statement of fact. 

Read through Philippians 2: 6-11 slowly and carefully, meditating on each word and phrase. 

Prayer

Thank You for strengthening my faith in Christ and who He is. 

For the family

Explain the devotion in an age-appropriate way.