PRIDE

PRIDE

Kingdom Principle

Pride in Recognition

“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

 And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted. 

Matthew 23:12  

Context: Criticism of the scribes and Pharisees who live hypocritically and enjoy attention, position and titles. “All their works they do to be seen by men.”

Application: Society conditions me to seek attention, recognition and self-glorification through social media, education, achievements, qualifications, titles, careers etc. I must be cautious of how much attention I direct towards myself. Rather, use platforms of influence to direct attention towards Jesus.

Pride in Status

For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." 

Luke 14:11 

Context: Parable of taking the lowly place at a feast rather than taking the best place then being demoted. “Now he told a parable to those who were invited, when he noticed how they chose the places of honour...”

Application: It’s tempting to chase and enjoy the admiration of others when they associate me with (or know I am associated with) people of influence or higher rank. Such admiration carries no spiritual value. When life presents me with opportunities to elevate myself or my status, I must choose the humble option. 

Pride in Spirituality

I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." 

Luke 18:14 

Context: Parable of the Pharisee (who thought his religiosity put him in higher standing with God) and tax collector (who recognised his sin and asked God for mercy). “This man went down to his house justified rather than the other” (v14). “He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt”

Application: I should always view my salvation through the lens of my unworthiness and God’s undeserved grace. When I start to think my work/giving/hospitality/time/ministry makes me superior to others or entitled to God’s grace, it is a sign of spiritual pride.

Other Verses

James 4:6

But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

James 4:10

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.

Romans 12:16

Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.

1 Peter 5:5

Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

Proverbs‬ ‭11:2‬

When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.

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The Goal

More of Jesus, less of me! He must increase, I must decrease (Jn 3:30).