1. We Can Rejoice in the Lord Because We Have the Honor of Possessing Humility Philippians (2:5-11)

2. Reasons to Rejoice! This lesson represents our 9 th installment in this series of lessons as to why we can rejoice in the Lord. So far, we have learned that we can rejoice in the Lord because: –We are saints (1:1) –God works in our lives (1:6) –We are partakers of grace (1:7) –Our love is abounding (1:9-11) –God works all things for our good (1:12-18) –We have a purpose in life (1:19-26) –We have an opportunity to grow in our faith (1:27-30) –We have the blessing of unity (2:1-4)

3. The Honor of Possessing Humility The honor of possessing humility: –Allows us the opportunity to imitate Christ in our attitude (2:5) –Allows us the opportunity to imitate Christ in our actions (2:6-8) –Allows God the opportunity to reward us for our willingness to be like Christ (2:9-11)

4. Imitating Christ in Our Attitude Concerning this matter, there is an overall consideration we need to keep in mind at all times. (Matthew 10:24,25) Jesus, our Lord, was humble. (Matthew 11:28-30) Some Scriptures that speak to the humility we should possess are: (Romans 7:18; II Cor. 3:5; Ephesians 3:8; Colossians 3:12; I Timothy 1:15).

5. Imitating Christ in Our Actions Jesus’ actions in expressing His humility are worthy of our imitation. –He emptied Himself. (He gave up the throne.) –He took the form of a bondservant. (He took up a towel and washed feet.) –He was obedient even to the point of death. (He endured the cross for us.)

6. Giving God the Opportunity to Reward Us The Father richly rewarded Jesus for all His work for mankind. (2:9-11) We too will be rewarded by our Heavenly Father if we will imitate Jesus’ example of humility. (James 4:6-10; I Peter 5:5,6)