Philippians 2:10-11 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
This Sunday as we sang about those verses, I was impressed again with their meaning. I am guilty of not allowing these verses to have the affect in my life that the Holy Spirit intended them to have. Too often I have simply viewed them as future events which only apply to those who are not in Christ. For instance, when sharing the gospel I am often cursed, mocked, and scorned. It is easy for me to think, "One day, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord." This is true - that particular application may be appropriate. However, consolation because of present day rejection of the gospel is not the point/emphasis of the passage, nor is it the primary meaning. I realize this may be tedious, but I implore you to continue reading. I believe this will be a blessing to you.
The greater context of Philippians reveals Paul's intent in the letter. Chapter one screams that we should pursue unity because the gospel is at stake. Paul thanked God for the Philippians' "fellowship in the gospel," while challenging the members of the church to "strive side by side for the sake of the gospel." Further, chapter 4 clearly builds on unity as Paul deals specifically with two ladies in the church that they "be of the same mind in the Lord." Chapter 2 is also a clear call to unity. Paul instructs them to be "like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind." He is formulating a strong argument for unity in the church. Several verses later, we read of the central example of humility, Jesus Christ. We read of his obedience and servanthood - the Lord of heaven and earth humbled himself to a position of subjection to the lords of this earth. What he left we can hardly imagine, but yet his perfect love for us sent him to the cross on our behalf.
Then I read that one day "every knee will bow and every tongue will confess" - I knew it applied to a future situation where all would be made right and Christ would reign, but yet I never saw myself in those verses! What could be more fueling to unity than if each believer would see themselves bowing before Jesus Christ? Desire for preeminence would be replaced by humble servanthood. Respect of persons would be transformed into love for others. We may think we occupy a position of superiority, but on that day, each one of us will occupy a prostrate position before the One who is worthy of all our worship, praise and adoration - Jesus Christ.
The greatest catalyst for unity is humility. As I sang the song this Sunday, one again my heart was moved. I will be bowing. Me. My knee will bend; my voice will cry, "Jesus Christ is Lord!"
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