Philippians 2:6-11 contains what theologians call, the Kenosis passage. We looked at it yesterday.
Kenosis in its simplest form means emptying. Jesus laid aside the privileges that were His in glory. Rather than stay on His throne, He made “Himself nothing” and came to earth choosing the position of slave. He chose death on a cross so that we might have life eternal as children of God. He gave up glory so that we might enjoy eternal glory in the presence of our Father God.
Reading a little past that Kenosis passage, I came to this admonition. It is one that is so relevant for our life in this present age.
“Do everything without grumbling and arguing, so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God who are faultless in a crooked and perverted generation, among whom you shine like stars in the world.” [Philippians 2:14-15 HCSB]
Notice that word “everything?” We are to do everything, all things, without complaining and grumbling or arguing. Most of us are able to do somethings without complaint, but Paul does not provide any stipulations … we are exhorted to do it all with a joyful spirit, one that makes us shine like stars.
I like what Matthew Henry commented about this verse, “God’s commands were given to be obeyed, not to be disputed.”
I guess we should once again listen to ourselves and what flows out from the abundance of our hearts. Are we hearing grumble, grumble, grumble? Or are we hearing Rejoice, Rejoice, Rejoice! Jesus is LORD!
