The humility of Christ stands as a central tenet of Christian theology and practice, serving as a profound example for believers to emulate. This humility is not merely an abstract concept but is vividly demonstrated through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Scriptures.

Biblical Foundation

The humility of Christ is most poignantly illustrated in Philippians 2:5-8 : "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." This passage underscores the voluntary nature of Christ's humility, highlighting His willingness to relinquish divine privileges for the sake of humanity.

Incarnation and Servanthood

The incarnation itself is a profound act of humility. In becoming flesh, Christ embraced the limitations and sufferings of human existence. John 1:14 states, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us." This act of taking on human form is a testament to His willingness to serve rather than be served, as further emphasized in Mark 10:45 : "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many."

Obedience and Sacrifice

Christ's humility is also evident in His obedience to the Father's will, even unto death. Hebrews 5:8 notes, "Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from what He suffered." This obedience is not passive but active, culminating in the ultimate sacrifice on the cross. The humility of Christ is thus inseparable from His sacrificial love, as He willingly laid down His life for the redemption of mankind.

Teaching and Example

Throughout His ministry, Jesus taught and exemplified humility. In Matthew 11:29 , He invites, "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." His interactions with the marginalized, His washing of the disciples' feet (John 13:14-15), and His parables often highlighted the virtue of humility over pride and self-exaltation.

Imitation by the Saints

Believers are called to imitate the humility of Christ as a fundamental aspect of their spiritual walk. Ephesians 4:2 exhorts, "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." The apostle Peter also encourages this imitation in 1 Peter 5:5-6 : "Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you."

Practical Application

The imitation of Christ's humility involves a conscious effort to prioritize others above oneself, to serve without seeking recognition, and to submit to God's will in all circumstances. It requires a transformation of the heart and mind, aligning one's attitudes and actions with the example set by Christ. This humility is not a sign of weakness but a reflection of strength and confidence in God's sovereignty and grace.

In summary, the humility of Christ is a profound and essential aspect of His character and mission. It serves as a model for all believers, calling them to a life of service, obedience, and selflessness in the pursuit of holiness and the advancement of God's kingdom.Philippians 2:5-8
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Twenty-First Article they Absolutely Condemn, Because we do ...
... example [the example of her faith and her humility]. ... should imagine that the invocation
of saints were taught ... are sought in addition to Christ, and confidence ...
/.../the apology of the augsburg confession/part 26 the twenty-first article.htm

On the Invocation of Saints
... necessity of confessing, not only with humility but with ... the all-sufficient intercession
of Christ, through which ... In the invocation of saints, do the papists ...
/.../arminius/the works of james arminius vol 1/disputation 24 on the invocation.htm

All Saints' Day
... of spirit, that is deep and true humility, despising the ... And Christ is our Example
above all, for He was ... Thus all His disciples and Saints have followed after ...
//christianbookshelf.org/tauler/the inner way/sermon xxvi all saints day.htm

Christ Teaching Humility
... considered himself "less than the least of all saints," and "the ... are the command
of Christ; the example of Christ; the comfort that humility gives; the ...
/.../newton/the life of jesus christ for the young/christ teaching humility.htm

Christ's People --Imitators of Him
... am I of his notice!" Be like Christ in his humility. ... Christ, you are of Christ, and
shall be with Christ. ... be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/christs peopleimitators of him.htm

Faustus is Willing to Admit that Christ May have Said that He came ...
... Before we received in humility the grace of the Spirit ... In former days faith was dim,
for the saints and righteous ... to Moses were not destroyed by Christ, as he ...
/.../faustus is willing to admit.htm

Letter Lxxxii. To Theophilus Bishop of Alexandria.
... Surely my opponent has learnt by experience the value of humility. ... a kinsman, and
will perceive that in Christ I am submissive to him as to all the saints. ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter lxxxii to theophilus bishop.htm

These Things, My Brother Aurelius, Most Dear unto Me...
... When thou shall go over [2608] unto Christ, the veil ... in those times by the long hair
of the Saints. ... sins:" holding out a screen of simulated humility, to the ...
/.../augustine/of the work of monks /section 38 these things my.htm

How Christ is to be Made Use Of, in Reference to Growing in Grace.
... a partaker of the inheritance of the saints in light ... of faith, or their consenting
to let Christ live in ... of soul unto God, as sovereign, much humility of mind ...
/.../brown/christ the way the truth and the life/chapter vii how christ is.htm

Christ and his Table-Companions "And when the Hour was Come, He ...
... believe, and be as earnest as those first saints were, we ... on this support before
me; do so with Christ in a ... have become His follower; go on by humility to be ...
/.../spurgeon/till he come/christ and his table-companions and.htm

What was the significance of Jesus washing the feet of the disciples? | GotQuestions.org

What does the Bible say about conceit / being conceited? | GotQuestions.org

Who was John the Apostle in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Humility: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus