Dying to Self
Matthew 5:5 … “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” What does the word “meek” mean? It is a mildness of disposition, a gentleness of spirit. One definition of meekness is “a blend of
spiritual poise and strength.” The meek person submits to God and is gentle towards man. He doesn’t react when provoked. He remains cool when others get hot. He forgives rather than seek revenge. He accepts God’s ways without resistance. He relies on God in the face of injustice. He views enemies as God’s tools in his life. Philippians 2:5-11 reveals the example of Jesus Christ regarding meekness—it’s about dying to self. First, dying to self requires a proper attitude—“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” (v. 5) Meekness results from studying and imitating Jesus: attitude influences action. Second, dying to self requires a proper humility—“[He] made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant.” (v. 7) It is giving up rights: we see this exemplified in the incarnation. Jesus came from heaven to creation—and He is the Creator of all things! Humility withholds use of available rights, to benefit others. Third, dying to self requires a proper submission—“He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death.” (v. 8) Submission is total obedience and total sacrifice. Submissiveness functions under authority, regardless of the cost. Fourth, dying to self requires a proper honor—“Therefore God also has highly exalted Him, and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (vv. 9-11) God gives honor if there is honor to be given. And remember that … “before honor is humility.” (Proverbs 15:33b)
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.