A Hymn From the Early Church

Recorded for us in Philippians 2:6-11, we find an early hymn or creedal chant, used by our church ancestors.  

Paul deeply loved his friends at Philippi and was greatly encouraged by their love for him. He wrote this letter from imprisonment in Rome.

He wants them to always remember that they (and we)  should exhibit the same mind set as Jesus had -- complete humility.

The hymn begins describing Jesus:

     "Who, being in the very nature of God, did not consider equality with God something to be used for His own advantage.

      Rather, He made Himself nothing, by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 

      And being found in appearance of a man, He humbled Himself by being obedient to death -- even death on a cross!"

That's how the hymn begins. Here is how it ends:

     "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name,

      that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth. 

      And every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father."

     It would be so amazing to worship with these wonderful people and sing this song or chant it with them! (I guess I should say,  "It will be great to worship with these wonderful people" - because according to God's message for us -- someday we will!)

Praise God from whom all blessings flow

Praise Him all creatures here below

Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!