SUNDAY 4TH AUGUST 2024 – BISAPP STUDY CENTRAL THEME: WHO IS THIS JESUS?
SUB-THEME: THE OBEDIENCE AND EXALTATION OF JESUS
TEXT: PHILIPPIANS 2:5-11
MEMORY VERSE
Hebrews 5:8-9
“Though He was a son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered and having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him.”
INTRODUCTION
To obey is to act in line with rules, regulations, and laws. Obedience is the attitude of following instructions willingly and without questioning. To exalt is to make somebody or something rise to a higher rank or position. Exaltation is the act of raising or lifting somebody or something up. Exaltation always comes with immense joy and happiness.
In our text, we see Jesus’ obedience which is devoid of selfish ambition, mixed with humility and lowliness of mind, esteeming others better than Himself and looking for the interest of others. Jesus was equal to God. In obedience however, He took the form of a bond servant, coming in the likeness of men, humbling Himself, and was obedient to the point of death – even death on the Cross, which was necessary for the redemption and salvation of man. His obedience caused God to exalt Him and give Him a name above every name. The exaltation of Jesus was, therefore, deserved.
For Obedience to attract reward it must be total and in all areas. Selective obedience is disobedience and has consequences. (1 Samuel 15:3,9-11). Obedience often entails giving up something. (Genesis 22:2-3, 13). Failing to obey (disobedience) is a sin and attracts punishment. (Genesis 3:14-19) Obedience is righteousness and attracts rewards (Revelation 22:12).
QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
What virtues prompted the complete obedience of Jesus even unto death? (John 3:16; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24; 1 Peter 5:6; 2 Peter 3:9)
Why did God exalt Jesus? (Mark 10:44-45; John 10:11 & 15; Titus 2:14; Hebrews 9:28 James 4:10)
Mention examples of God’s commands and the costs of obedience in the Bible. (Genesis 22:1-3; Exodus 5:4-9; Daniel 3:16-21; 2 Timothy 3:12)
What are the benefits of Obedience? Mention examples in the Bible. (Genesis 6:13-14, 7:23; Deuteronomy 28:1-14; Joshua 1:7-8; Isaiah 1:19
CONCLUSION
Jesus Christ has shown us a perfect example of obedience, which derives from His love, compassion, and desire that none should perish in sin. Although He is God, He humbled Himself and endured the cross. He endured the hatred of the people He came to save. The Christian life involves commitment and sacrifice. We must fix our eyes on Jesus and be ready to give up whatever may endanger our relationship with God. Our obedience to God and His commandments must be total and complete. It is only in doing this, that all the blessings of God will come upon and overtake those who have fully obeyed Him.