Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:9-11
"Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."_
Introduction:
Recently, we've seen movements and protests where people "take a knee" to express defiance, support, or solidarity on various issues. Traditionally associated with humility or submission, Kneeling has become a symbol of opposition and resistance. But is there a difference between "taking a knee" in worldly matters and "bowing a knee" before the Lordship of Christ? In this sermon, we will explore the Biblical perspective on kneeling and submission, revealing the ultimate act of reverence that everyone in heaven and on earth is called to perform.
1. **Taking a Knee: A Symbol of Worldly Defiance or Protest**
In the world's view, "taking a knee" has taken on a powerful meaning. In sports arenas, political stages, and public squares, it symbolizes protest against perceived injustice. While there may be a legitimate concern for addressing social issues, these acts often reflect allegiance to a temporary cause rather than an eternal King. The Bible gives examples of people who "took a knee" in rebellion against God's authority:
- **Example: The Golden Calf (Exodus 32)**
When Moses went up the mountain to receive the Ten Commandments, the Israelites, in a moment of rebellion, fashioned a golden calf and bowed to it, essentially taking a knee to a false god. This act protested Moses's perceived absence and the uncertainty of their situation, but it was also a refusal to bow to the true God who had delivered them.
- **Commentary:**
Worldly causes, even when they seem just, can distract us from the higher calling of bowing to the Creator. Kneeling for temporary issues or leaders is often an expression of misplaced hope. The question is, where do we ultimately bow? Who receives our deepest allegiance?
2. **Bowing a Knee: A Biblical Act of Submission to Christ's Lordship**
In contrast, Scripture presents kneeling as an act of submission to God. When we bow before Jesus, it is not in protest but in complete surrender, acknowledging Him as Lord over all things. The Bible clearly states that every knee will bow to Jesus, willingly or in submission, when He returns.
- **Scripture Focus: Philippians 2:9-11**
The passage reminds us that Jesus is exalted above every name, and every knee will bow in His name. This is not just a future event; it is an ongoing truth that reflects the proper posture of our hearts—surrendered to His Lordship.
- **Illustration: The Story of Daniel**
In Daniel 6, Daniel refused to bow to King Darius' decree, which prohibited praying to anyone but the King. Instead, Daniel continued bowing in prayer to the one true God, even at the cost of being thrown into the lion's den. His reverence and submission were directed to God, not man. Daniel knew where his ultimate allegiance lay, and God honored his faithfulness.
- **Commentary:**
Bowing a knee to Jesus means more than a symbolic act—it's a lifestyle of obedience. While the world may offer fleeting causes, our calling is to submit to the eternal authority of Christ. The world may demand you "take a knee" in protest, but as Christians, we are called to bow our knees to the one true King.
### 3. **Every Knee Will Bow: The Inevitability of Christ's Lordship**
While the world's protests and movements will fade, one truth remains: everyone will bow before Jesus. This is not a question of "if" but "when." Those who submit willingly to Christ now will experience eternal life, but those who resist will still bow in judgment.
- **Illustration: C.S. Lewis's The Great Divorce**
C.S. Lewis paints a powerful image of people who, after death, continue to cling to their earthly allegiances. Yet, at the final moment, they will bow before the Lord. Lewis' imagery is a stark reminder that no worldly cause can compare to the glory of the risen Christ, no matter how passionate.
- **Scripture Reference: Romans 14:11 (ESV)**
_"For it is written, 'As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.'"_
This verse underscores the finality of Christ's reign and authority. We have the choice to bow in reverence now or be compelled to bow later. But either way, every knee will bend, and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord.
Conclusion:
The world calls us to "take a knee" in opposition to perceived wrongs, often with noble intent. Yet, as believers, our primary call is to "bow a knee" in submission to the eternal authority of Jesus Christ. The world's issues are temporary, but the Kingdom of God is infinite. Let us not be distracted by fleeting causes that may demand our attention but remain steadfast in bowing our hearts and knees to the true King.
**One-Sentence Summary:**
_"While the world may call us to take a knee in protest, the eternal call of God is to bow a knee in reverence to Jesus Christ, for every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that He is Lord."_
Closing Prayer:
"Lord, we come before You today with hearts bowed and knees bent in reverence. The world may pull us in many directions, asking for our allegiance to temporary causes, but we declare today that our knees bow only to You. You are Lord, and we confess Your name above every name. Help us live in a way that reflects this truth, standing firm in a world full of distractions and leading us in the paths of righteousness. In Jesus' name, Amen."
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**Resources & Further Reading:**
1. **C.S. Lewis, "The Great Divorce"** – for an illustration of eternal choices and ultimate submission to Christ.
2. **Matthew Henry's Commentary on Philippians 2:9-11** – for a deeper theological understanding of Christ's exaltation and our call to submit.
3. **"Bow Down: The Heart of Worship" by Louie Giglio** – explores the importance of true worship in bowing to Christ's Lordship.
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