The Scripture quoted in our title today comes from I Corinthians 1:26-27 where Paul reminds the Corinthian church and Christians everywhere, “For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble are called: for God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise.” Most great servants of the Lord would fit into these descriptive verses, and humble servants of God are in very good company as they follow the example of our Lord.
During this Christmas season, our thoughts, sermons and programs usually carry the theme of the meek, lowly Savior Who was born in a stable for animals and made His first bed in their feeding trough, the manger.
Hebrews 2:16-18 gives us more insight on His manner of appearing in human flesh for His earthly ministry, “For He (Jesus) took not on Him the nature of angels; but He took took on Him the seed of Abraham (humanity). Wherefore in all things it behooved (was necessary and fit for) Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted, He is able to succor (aid, assist) them that are tempted.”
John Piper, preacher and founder of Bethlehem College and Seminary of Minneapolis, says in his book of 25 Christmas devotionals, “Joy to the World,” that there was no detour on His road to Calvary. God Who moved Caesar Augustus to order the whole world to be taxed, each in the city of his ancestry, in order to get Joseph and Mary from Nazareth to Bethlehem where Jesus would be born in His prophesied birthplace, could have given Him the finest suite in the most luxurious inn. Piper makes the observation that all of Jesus’ life led Him toward Calvary and by the grace of God, “Though He (Jesus) was rich, yet for your (our) sakes He became poor that ye (we) through His poverty might be rich (II Corinthians 8:9).” But now God hath highly exalted Him (Philippians 2:9).
Let’s consider now the example of some who relate so well with our meek and lowly Savior. The first that comes to mind is Moses who is considered one of the greatest leaders the world has ever known. He was born in a lowly Israelite home, the child of slaves in the land of Egypt. He apparently suffered from a speech impediment and Numbers 12:3 tells us, “Now the man Moses was very meek above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.”
Peter and John in Acts 4:13 were described as “unlearned and ignorant men,” yet God used them in such a mighty way, the members of the Sanhedrin Court marveled at them and knew they were the followers of Christ who had performed unbelievable miracles in His name. Then in more modern times, there was R. G. LeTourneau, probably the greatest inventor of heavy equipment ever and a soldout Christian. He never finished the 7th grade, but he received an honorary doctorate in engineering and eventually was able to give 90% of his income to the church and Christian causes. J. C. Penney, another dedicated Christian and a household name in America, graduated from high school but was financially unable to continue his education. By the end of his life, it is said he had received 17 honorary doctorates and had given 90% of his income to the work of the Lord for many years.
Finally, we recall the recent martyrdom of Charlie Kirk who quit college to pursue his passion for taking the Gospel message and the godly principles upon which America was built to his generation. Hillsdale College will confer upon him, posthumously, and Erika, his wife, honorary doctorates next May, and God has honored him throughout the world in his death.
Although many of the followers of Christ came from very lowly beginnings, God has used others from affluent, well-educated families, and He will use and honor all who accept and humbly serve Him. May each of us be counted in that number. Merry Christmas!
— Randy Zinn is pastor of Russell Missionary Baptist Church, Russell, Ark.; formerly of Okmulgee.
