Big Idea

Jesus emptied himself of the divine to show us what it is to be human.

Scripture

Philippians 2:1-11

Ice Breaker & Opening Thought

1. What sport would you compete in if you were in the Olympics? Why?
2. This new series will focus on the humanity of Jesus and why it’s important to us that Jesus was fully human. We may tend to overemphasize Jesus’ humanity or divinity depending on our relationship to Jesus. How about you? Is it hard for you to think about Jesus’ divinity or humanity? Explain.

Bible Discussion

3. Read Philippians 2:1-11. What do you notice about the passage?
4. In verse 6, it is translated that Jesus didn’t use his equality with God as something to be used to his advantage. What could it mean for Jesus to take advantage of his status as God?
5. In verse 7, it says that Jesus emptied himself (Greek word: kenoo). A helpful way of understanding “Jesus emptying himself” is to say those qualities were of “no account.” Jesus chose to become vulnerable. What does this reveal to us about the nature of God?

Life Application

6. What do you think about the following quote?
   “The incarnation (Jesus becoming human) is a kind of vast joke whereby the Creator of the ends of the earth comes among us in diapers… Until we too have taken the idea of the God-man seriously enough to be scandalized by it, we have not taken it as seriously as it demands to be taken.” – Frederick Buechner, Faces of Jesus
7. Reread Philippians 2:1-5. In what ways does Jesus become a model for us in our relationships and ethics?
8. What would it mean to you to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit?
9. Jesus wasn’t seeking glory for himself; instead, he served others. In what ways can you empty yourself this week in preparation for Good Friday and Easter?