In the book of Philippians 2:5-8, the Apostle Paul admonished the church in Philippi to consciously have the mind of Christ Jesus, who, although God-man, did not consider it equal to God. In other words, although Jesus was fully God, He made Himself of no importance by assuming the position of a servant to serve the humans He created.
Jesus consistently referred to God as the Father while on earth. Throughout His life on earth, He never defied God. Jesus is part of the Triune God, alongside God the Father and God the Holy Spirit. The Bible states that they are One in essence and nature. Jesus is the Word spoken in Genesis during the creation process (Genesis 1:3). John 1:1-3 also provides more details about the persona of Christ Jesus, stating that He (the Word) was God, and all things were made through Him.
The writer of Hebrews also speaks about Jesus, saying, “In the past, God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days, He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, and through whom He also made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful word. After providing purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven” (Hebrews 1:1-3). Thus, Jesus, the Son, sustains all things today and tomorrow. All these aspects reveal the true nature of Christ Jesus.
Considering all these qualifications and honours, Jesus should have been the proudest person on earth. His life was filled with signs and wonders. The Bible states, “Everywhere He went, He was doing good.” People flocked to Him to receive miracles. At one point, some Jews even wanted to make Him a king, but He escaped. The titles and praises of mankind could not distract Him from His focus and mission on earth.
Jesus remained humble among men. Little children could approach Him, sinners could join Him at the same table, the impure could touch Him, and the unschooled and social outcasts were His friends. He even washed the feet of those who were unworthy of touching His shoes, let alone unfastening them. He did all this to set an example for His followers to imitate. This was the God-man Jesus.
The Apostle Peter, taking a cue from his Master, also demonstrated humility in Acts 10:25-26. This occurred when he was given the opportunity to minister to the household of Cornelius, a Gentile from Caesarea. When Cornelius saw him, he fell at Peter’s feet and worshipped him, expressing deep respect for the revered man of God.
Peter’s response to Cornelius: “Stand up; I myself am also a man”, inspired me to write this piece. By saying this, Peter acknowledged his humanity, for He did not descend from the heavens. The privilege he had been given was as a man of God, but it was meant for service, not to be served. Therefore, he urged Cornelius not to be overwhelmed by his presence, for Peter was just a man like him.
How do you react when people direct praise to you in the name of God? Sometimes, we are quick to label a young man or woman insolent because they fail to bow or heap praise upon us for something we may have done for them.
No matter your accomplishments or the heights you reach, remember that you are merely a mortal human being. Apostle Peter learned from Jesus how not to take advantage of situations, even if it may be within your power to do so. Let us behave like Christ.
Written by Overseer Seth Frimpong (Jama District)