Christ came as a servant ...
Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory. Remember that Christ came as a servant to the Jews to show that God is true to the promises he made to their ancestors. He also came so that the Gentiles might give glory to God for his mercies to them. -Romans 15:7-9 NLT
Ever think about the way that Jesus came to the earth? Who could have ever imagined that the Messiah would come as a servant and not as one who is served? The image of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples at the last supper challenges every concept of leadership that most people embrace. I think that this is one of the reasons that people did not recognize God when he came in the flesh. Most were expecting a warrior lion and not a servant lamb.
And as much as the Jews were amazed by this, I think that even more were amazed when the gospel began to be proclaimed to the Gentiles. Spiritual life had always been a purview of ethnic Israel and many had trouble believing that salvation extended past their borders. I wonder if we, like ancient Jews, are guilty of embracing a gospel that is too narrow in scope? Perhaps we would do well to heed Paul's admonition to accept each other as Christ accepts us?
"I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit." -Romans 15:13 NLT
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Just finished a study on the book of Mark. Mark 10:45. He didn't come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a random for us. So thankful.
ReplyDeleteSo true Nonnie. I am thankful too!
DeleteIf Jesus came as one who serves, and we are being transformed into his likeness (sanctification), then we are servants. Servants of God and of others. Serving isn't just something we do, it is part of our new identity in Christ. How do you think the world's opinion of Christianity would change if God's people actually lived out of this identity?!
ReplyDelete"it is part of our new identity in Christ"
DeleteLove that Brance! The world once had a better opinion of Christianity. Then religious folks got involved in politics and serving got a new meaning. When the world talks about Christianity it no longer speaks of our charitable humanitarian efforts (which are many) but chooses to focus on our political antics. I hope that can one day be turned around. Maybe your generation can change the Moral Majority into the Serving Majority?