A Biblical Vision, Part II: Mastering the New Testament Witness to Christ

62

A B i b l i ca l Vi s i on, Par t I I : Mas ter i ng the New Tes tament Wi tnes s to Chr i s t

2. The Kingdom is demonstrated in the lowliness, humility, and obedience of the Suffering Servant of God – Jesus Christ.

a. John 1.14 – And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

b. Phil. 2.5-8 – Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, [6] who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, [7] but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, [8] he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

c. Matt. 20.28 – . . . even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

3. We are explicitly commanded to take his yoke on us, and reflect his lowliness in all aspects of life and ministry, Matt. 11.28-30 – Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

IX. Connections for Urban Ministry Today

2 Cor. 8.9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.

How can the lowliness and obedience of Jesus be better demonstrated in your life and ministry?

A. Connection to your life and spiritual development