“THE LORD’S MEEKNESS”

7 So he asked them again, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.”

John 18:7

No one wants to be called names, especially labels that are demeaning and insulting. But history tells us that Christians were called different derogatory names. What's our motivation to endure such hostility?

In our previous sermon, we learned that Jesus, in human form, chose to limit some of His divine powers and prerogatives.

Let’s carry on with our study of this chapter.

This passage highlights both Jesus’ meekness and majesty. For Him to allow others to call Him “Jesus of Nazareth,” (knowing the obscurity and ridicule surrounding that term), shows how humble our Lord is. He doesn’t mind being called by such a derogatory name.

I don’t think any of us enjoys being called names, especially when the terms are intended to insult us. But we can see how Jesus controls Himself and lets people call Him disrespectfully. He is not going to lose His temper because of it. He is far too wise and humble to give in to derision and ridicule. Jesus is our prime example of humility.

8 “And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”

Philippians 2:8

The term “humbled himself” can be paraphrased “made himself nothing.” It highlights Jesus’ exercise of free will. In other words, Jesus willfully chose the humble state of a human being. His humility was further shown in His choice of lifestyle and meekness in the face of persecution.

Demonstrating humility can be a difficult challenge, especially when others look down on us. Our natural instinct and the way of the world tell us to fight back. But if we consider ourselves followers of Christ, retaliation is never an option. Instead, we are encouraged to repay evil with good.

My friend, how willing are you to take insults in and bless those who persecute you?

Pursue the Savior today!