What Does It Mean To Be "Christ-Like"?
Philippians 2:3-5 (KJV)
3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Being a true Christian means following the example of Jesus Christ, who served others above Himself. It’s not about merely keeping the commandments, but about embodying the love, humility, and selflessness that Christ demonstrated through the gospel. True Christianity is about putting others before ourselves, just as Jesus did when He came down from His heavenly throne to die for our sins. This was an act of supreme love.
Jesus didn't do it out of obligation but out of a deep desire to reconcile us to God and make us holy citizens of heaven. In essence, he was thinking about how happy it would make us and God.
Jesus, the Son of God, had every right to remain in the glory of heaven. Yet, He chose to humble Himself, take on human form, and serve us by dying on the cross. He didn’t do this because He needed to, he did it because he loved us and wanted to.
This selflessness is the essence of what it means to be Christ-like.
In today’s world, many people trust and believe in themselves, putting their own needs above those of others. This self-centeredness is a barrier to true service. But as Christians, we are called to follow Jesus’ example of humility and service. We have nothing to lose because we have already gained everything through Jesus and the gospel. We have been made righteous, reconciled to God, and given eternal life. With this assurance, we can put aside our pride and ego in order to serve others.
Since we have already won and found God, we can help those who are lost.
Our service to others is not about gaining recognition or praise; it’s about winning hearts for the kingdom of God. When we serve others with genuine love and humility through the gospel, we reflect the heart of Christ. People see the peace, happiness, and holiness in our lives, and they are naturally drawn to it. Our job is not to force anyone to believe but to plant the seed of the gospel by living out the love of Christ.
True Christ-likeness involves a willingness to lay down our own desires, pride, and ego to serve others through the gospel. Jesus showed us that true greatness comes from humility and service, not from seeking power or recognition.
Imagine a world where everyone followed the example of Jesus in serving others through the gospel. There would be no room for strife, division, or selfishness. Instead, there would be peace, unity, and love. We would all see each other on the same level and each person would be considered perfect and righteous.
I want you all to reflect on your own life and ask yourself if you are truly living out the example of Christ in serving others. Are there areas where pride or self-interest have taken place over humility and service? I hope we can put ourselves above others in order to plant the gospel in their hearts. Remember, Jesus did it and thats why we are able to get to heaven. Without Jesus doing so, we could never be reconciled to God. Praise Yeshua!