2026-04-19, Becoming Less

Main message: Christians are called to "become less" like Jesus—letting go of status and pride so we can serve the mission of God. True discipleship looks like humble, sacrificial service because the mission is more important than personal recognition.

Key points:

• Philippians 2:5-7 shows Jesus is fully God yet did not cling to his equality with God; he made himself nothing and took the form of a servant.
• Jesus willingly limited himself and humbled himself to the point of death on a cross—an act of holy love focused on saving others.
• Understanding Jesus' divine identity (John 1:1-3) underscores how radical his self-emptying was: the Creator choosing to become less.
• Becoming less is practical: many important church tasks (e.g., nursery care) are unglamorous but essential to the mission.
• The main barrier is unholy pride; disciples need heart-change and must be willing to sacrifice status for the sake of the gospel.
• Illustration: Michael Collins (Apollo 11) as an example of gladly taking a less-visible but necessary role for the mission's success.

Scriptures mentioned: Philippians 2:5-7, John 1:1-3, John 3:16-17, Matthew 28:18-20