We read about the great heroes in Scripture: Moses, Samuel, David, Daniel, Peter, Paul, and, towering over all of them, the Lord Jesus. Often we are called to follow their example. “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). While that sounds great, following the example of those Biblical giants seems a little out of reach. "I am no Peter or Paul, let alone Jesus!" we think.
In Philippians 2, Paul calls us to experience real joy by developing our personality in Christ. The primary personality trait is humility expressed in service and sacrifice. He begins by using Jesus as an example. Then he draws attention to his own service and sacrifice. In the final section of this chapter he holds forth two “second stringers” to follow — Timothy and Epaphroditus. If these guys can model Christ’s personality, so can we!
Timothy: A priceless example of service , vv. 19-24.
Epaphroditus: A priceless example of sacrifice, vv. 25-30
Humility expressed in service and sacrifice is possible for common, ordinary believers just like us!
