Being Jesus of Nazareth was seen as a sign of humility for several reasons:
* Lowly Origins: Nazareth was a small, insignificant village in Galilee. It wasn't a place of prominence or prestige. Being from Nazareth implied humble roots, not a place where you'd expect the Messiah to come from. As mentioned in John 1:46, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" This bias against Nazareth highlights its low status.
* Simple Upbringing: Jesus was raised in a working-class family. His father, Joseph, was a carpenter. Jesus likely learned and practiced the same trade. This was a far cry from the expected grandeur associated with a king or Messiah.
* Choice of Disciples: Jesus chose ordinary people from humble backgrounds as his disciples. Fishermen, tax collectors, and others who weren't powerful or influential. This contrasted with the expectation that a leader would surround themselves with elites.
* Service and Sacrifice: Jesus consistently prioritized serving others, especially the marginalized and outcast. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and associated with those considered sinners. This selfless service demonstrated humility.
* Acceptance of Suffering: Jesus willingly accepted suffering and ultimately crucifixion, despite being innocent. This ultimate act of sacrifice, rather than using divine power to escape his fate, is seen as the epitome of humility.
In summary, the circumstances of Jesus' birth, upbringing, social interactions, and ultimate sacrifice all point to a deliberate embrace of humility, which was seen as a radical departure from the expectations associated with a powerful Messiah.