The humility and lowliness of Christ is propounded by himself as a pattern for his people’s imitation.
Matthew 11:29: “Learn of me, for I am meek and lowly.” He could abase and empty himself of all his glory (Phil 2:5-7). He could stoop to the meanest office, even to wash the disciples feet. We read but of one triumph in all the life of Christ upon earth, when he rode to Jerusalem, the people strewing branches in the way, and the very children in the streets of Jerusalem, crying, “Hosanna to the son of David, Hosanna in the highest;” and yet with what lowliness and humility was it performed by Christ, Mathew 21:5: “Behold thy King cometh unto thee meek and lowly.” The humility of Christ appeared in every thing he spake or did. Humility discovered itself in his language, Psalm 22:6: “l am a worm, and no man.” In his actions, not refusing the meanest office (John 3:14). In his condescensions to the worst of men, upon which ground they called him “a friend to publicans and sinners” (Mt 11:19). But especially, and above all, in stooping down from all his glory to a state of the deepest contempt, for the glory of God and our salvation.
Christians! here is your pattern; look to your meek and humble Saviour, and tread in his steps.
Be you clothed with “humility” (1 Pet 5:5). Whoever are ambitious to be the world’s great ones, let it be enough for you to be Christ’s little ones. Convince the world, that since you knew God and yourselves, your pride hath been dying from that day. Shew your humility in your habits (1 Pet 3:3; 1 Tim 2:9-10). In your company, not contemning the meanest and poorest that fear the Lord (Ps 15:4; Rom 12:16). In your language; that dialect befits your lips (Eph 3:8). Less than the least of all saints; but especially in the low value and humble thoughts you have of yourselves (1 Tim 1:15).
—John Flavel
The Whole Works of the Reverend John Flavel, 2:411–412.
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