Our verses today came in the context of Paul's call for living out the fruit of the Gospel in the community of believers (2:1-18). Paul uses Jesus as our example for such living.
Paul reminded the Philippians and reminds us of the humility of Jesus - who set aside the fullness of his glory and equality with God to take on the flesh of His creation. He lived a life of humility and suffering and calls His followers to the same life. Communion reminds us that we are to participate in such a life of humility, sacrifice, and even death.
Paul also spoke of how Jesus has been exalted and given a name above all names. At His name every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that He is Lord. As Jesus has defeated death we have a great hope for our future - a future that includes our own resurrection and forevermore with Him - creation redeemed.
Communion is a way in which we are reminded of the Life of Jesus and reminded of our future hope. While Communion does NOT save us and is NOT REQUIRED for our salvation, it is a means through which we commune spiritually with Jesus and participate with Him is His life, death, and resurrection.
Here are a few questions to help you think through your response to this passage:
1. What did you hear God saying through this passage?
2. What does that mean?
3. What is God calling you to do? and/or Who is God calling you to be?
4. What would prevent you from doing or being that?
5. How can we help?
Today's message should be available on the media page of http://www.newcitydowntown.org/ Monday or Tuesday.
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