Summary of Chapter 4 “Greatness Demonstrated”

From chapter 3 we learned how humility is an act of true greatness that was exclusively demonstrated by Christ Himself. In chapter 4, CJ points us to some really key truths of our understanding of the Gospel:

• Our former captivity in sin: we were once enslaved/bondage to sin and therefore rightfully condemned to death…that is until
• Jesus Christ as a “ransom” for many: Jesus became the ransom through the death on the Cross to appease God’s wrath for us…
• Implications of His Sacrifice on the Cross: we are now free in Christ, meaning no more bondage/enslaved to sin but free to obey for the glory of God for our joy in serving others.

(Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that I just listed three key things above. But if I’ve missed something crucial details please inform and post it!)

There were couple things that hit me like a brick. One, in the act of true humility, “our own serve to others is always both an effect of His unique sacrifice and the evidence of it.” How often do I really remind myself about the sacrifice of His precious blood when I see others demonstrating humility? But here CJ stresses and reminds us that it was indeed His sacrifice that allows us or enables us to actually experience and demonstrate true humility. By reminding this truth to ourselves, it leaves no room for pride of self-glorification or man-centered perception of self-righteousness because it was Christ ALONE who had done the work for us on the Cross. Plus, God takes His glory seriously and does not delight in glory-robbers. Two, the great implications of the word “random” for both the recipient (us, sinners) and the one who is acting as ransom (Christ). It reminded me again that a great payment was required to deliver us from serious condemnation (His judgment) due to our sins and from our seriously sorry-state of deprived sinful nature. CJ reminds us that we “cannot free ourselves from pride and selfish ambition; a divine rescue is absolutely necessary.” Three, we see that Christ’s death is really central to Christianity. Without His death on the Cross, there would be no opportunity for us to serve others in humility, let alone act in obedience through faith in Christ (sanctification) that would please God. It was ultimately His death that made it possible for us to emulate the Savior’s example in true humility.

In nutshell, we are full beneficiaries of His death in that we are not only reconciled to Christ but we also have the privilege to participate in the awesome glory of His Son. And it doesn't matter what kind of serving opportunities available because in any circumstances that entails true humility, it should reminds us of His death and the evidences of it. Does that make sense? Sorry it's late so I shall clarify later.

I don’t have any specific questions for now (mostly because I’m still thinking about this) but I encourage you to post them! Thanks.