How can we avoid arrogance as warned in Romans 11:20? The Warning in Romans 11:20 “That is correct: They were broken off because of unbelief, but you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but fear.” Why Arrogance Is Such a Threat • Pride redirects glory from God to self (Proverbs 16:18). • It blinds us to dependence on grace (Ephesians 2:8-9). • It invites discipline, because “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). • It dulls evangelistic compassion; the branches broken off represent people God still longs to save. Perspective: Standing by Faith, Not Entitlement • Faith is a gift, not an achievement. • The root (Christ and the covenant promises) supports us; we do not support the root (Romans 11:18). • Any fruit in our lives comes from abiding in Him (John 15:5). Practical Steps to Starve Arrogance 1. Remember Grace Daily – Rehearse the gospel: we were dead, now alive by mercy (Ephesians 2:1-5). – Keep gratitude lists; thank God for specific mercies. 2. Cultivate God-Fearing Awe – “Do not be arrogant, but fear.” Healthy reverence stabilizes humility (Psalm 33:8). – Meditate on God’s holiness (Isaiah 6:1-5). 3. Practice Honest Self-Examination – Compare yourself with Scripture, not other people (2 Corinthians 10:12). – Confess sin quickly (1 John 1:9). 4. Adopt the Mind of Christ – “He humbled Himself and became obedient to death — even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:5-8). – Serve unnoticed; choose tasks that cannot repay you (Luke 14:12-14). 5. Stay Connected to the Root – Daily Scripture intake; let the Word prune proud thoughts (John 15:2-3). – Depend on the Spirit’s power, not personal strength (Galatians 5:16). 6. Live in Community Accountability – Invite brothers and sisters to speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). – Celebrate others’ gifts; cheer rather than compete (1 Corinthians 12:26). 7. Keep an Eternal Outlook – “The one who thinks he is standing firm should be careful not to fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12). – Recall the judgment seat of Christ; rewards go to faithful servants, not self-promoters (2 Corinthians 5:10). Fruit of Humility • A teachable spirit (Proverbs 9:9). • Increased compassion toward those outside the faith, mirroring God’s heart for Israel’s restoration (Romans 11:23). • Steady joy, resting in God rather than performance (Habakkuk 3:17-18). Staying mindful that we “stand by faith” keeps arrogance at bay and allows God’s mercy to shine through us. |
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