Model for Spiritual Unity Part 3 Why become like us? Phil. 2:7,8 The Process The Proceeds

Why become like us? The Process 1. The meaning of the incarnation 1.Christ became like us so that we could become like Him! 2.It was for the redemption from sin into the image of the Son 3.2 Corinthians 8:9

Why become like us? The Process (continued) 2.He became like us  Isaiah 9:6 - “given” & “born”  Morphe - inwardly and outwardly  Likeness - outward appearance  Schema - conformity to experience

Why become like us? The Proceeds 1.Like us in our temptation Heb. 4:15 and Matt. 4:1-11  Physical - Putting physical needs above spiritual vs. 3-4  Spiritual - presuming on God vs. 5-7  Vocational - reward w/o work vs. 8-10

Why become like us? The Proceeds (continued) 2.Like us in suffering  Suffering is a pattern for us  1 Peter 2:21  “example” - refers to a copybook which was a perfect pattern for a pupil to follow

Why become like us? The Proceeds (continued) 3.Like us in disappointments  John 11:35  Matthew 23:37

Why become like us? What to see in Jesus’ example! Jesus (our model)  Cast Himself upon God  Followed God’s purposes in history  Found God able to help

Why become like us? Conclusion Some day all this will no longer be faith but sight. And when that day comes we will recognize that God has used temptation, suffering and disappoint- ment to make us more like Jesus.

Why become like us? Application Are you trusting in God so you can look at your temptation, suffering and disappointments through His eyes. After all, you serve a Savior who has experienced all you have, are, and will.