Humility or Hubris?

The story of the Titanic is one of tragedy, and one of the worst parts of that tragedy is the pomp and pride that surrounded it. One unknown deckhand was quoted as saying, “God Himself could not sink this ship.” That hubris proved fatal when the ship struck an iceberg and sank to the ocean floor. Thousands of people lost their lives because they refused to believe such a grand ship was in peril. In a sense, all the arrogant, proud, and boastful people will face a similar fate if they refuse to face facts. As the Savior once said, “And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Matthew 23:12).

It is doubtful that most people, especially children of God, would consider themselves proud, arrogant, boastful, and filled with hubris. They desperately want to believe they are humble and submissive to the Lord. They think that all they do is done exactly as the Lord expects and desires. Yet we have brethren who overflow with these destructive qualities that tear congregations apart. Diotrophes has many kinfolk in the kingdom today (3 John 9-10). Here is a so-called child of God who slandered an apostle of Jesus Christ! Can you imagine? One does not have to look too long to find people who would do the same and worse today, though.
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A brief examination of one’s conduct quickly reveals whether he has the same spirit Diotrophes had thousands of years ago. Consider how someone may end up with such a spirit within them.

• They think more highly of themselves than is appropriate (Romans 12:3).
• They occupy their minds with the world and its wisdom (1 Corinthians 3:18-23).
• They seek to elevate themselves and their ideas (Philippians 2:3-4).
• They envy others and maliciously provoke them (Galatians 5:26).
• They do not wish to serve but to be served (Mark 10:42-45).

Such is a mere sampling of the problem. The result of all these attitudes and actions is harm against Christ and His church. Friends, many congregations have been torn apart, not because of persecution or external pressure, but because of arrogant men and women who just had to have their way. Rather than admit that they are mistaken or that the congregation does not need to carry out their whims, they double-down on their hubris. They undermine godly leaders, target perceived opponents, and gather yes-men who will do their bidding. At day’s end, all they do is divide and destroy.

            Humility, not hubris, is the way of Christ. It is His will for His people to humble themselves before Him. In fact, one cannot even begin to follow Christ without humility. What arrogant person would deny himself when he thinks he is perfect just as he is (Luke 9:23)? Yet it is not just our initial humility and submission to Christ that should be considered. These qualities must continue to remain with us. Consider how someone can manifest humility and submission rather than arrogant pride.

• They have a proper appraisal of self (Romans 12:16).
• They set their minds on God’s wisdom and ways (Proverbs 30:5).
• They elevate Christ above themselves (Philippians 1:19-20).
• They consider others to stir up love and good works (Hebrews 10:24).
• They are invested in carrying out good works for others (Titus 3:8).

These qualities build up Christ’s church. Just envision in your mind’s eye the beauty that unfolds when you see every brother and sister in the Lord putting each other before themselves. Imagine, if you will, brethren withholding their personal opinions and judgments on indifferent matters for the sake of others. Consider how good and how pleasant it is when brethren desire unity in the truth rather than division over doubtful things (Psalm 133:1). We need a triple-dose of humility in our lives. Then, and only then, can we be unified in Christ and carry out His will. Arrogance, pride, boastfulness, and hubris must then be cast aside. It is time to humble ourselves to each other and to our Heavenly Father (1 Peter 5:5-7). Friends, let us give this serious thought.