What steps can we take to avoid prideful behavior like Diotrephes'? Setting the Scene “I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not accept our instruction.” — 3 John 1:9 Diotrephes’ name surfaces in just a single verse, yet it warns us against self-exalting attitudes that fracture fellowship and oppose godly authority. Spotting Diotrephes-Style Pride • Craving to be “first” in every setting • Rejecting apostolic (biblical) counsel that challenges personal agendas • Undermining or ostracizing fellow believers who differ (v. 10) • Confusing position or influence with spiritual maturity Steps Toward Humility Instead of Pride 1. Submit gladly to Scripture – Psalm 119:105; 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – Let God’s Word override personal preference every time. 2. Honor spiritual authority – Hebrews 13:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 – View pastors, elders, and mature believers as gifts, not rivals. 3. Celebrate others’ fruitfulness – Philippians 2:3-4: “in humility consider others more important than yourselves.” – Verbally thank God for victories He gives to your brothers and sisters. 4. Practice quiet service – Matthew 6:1-4; John 13:14-15 – Look for invisible tasks; refuse spotlight unless Christ places you there. 5. Invite correction – Proverbs 27:6; Galatians 6:1 – Ask trusted believers, “Do you see pride in me? Speak freely.” 6. Guard your speech – Replace criticism with intercession; swap “I” stories for testimonies of Jesus. 7. Keep eternity in view – 2 Corinthians 5:10; Revelation 22:12 – Remember final reward comes from Christ, not from present applause. Scriptures That Reinforce the Call • Proverbs 16:18 — “Pride goes before destruction…” • James 4:6 — “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” • Luke 14:11 — “Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled…” • 1 Peter 5:5-6 — “Clothe yourselves with humility…” Daily Heart-Check - Did I seek Christ’s honor or my own today? - Did I listen more than I spoke? - Did I rejoice at another believer’s success? - Did I submit to Scripture where it corrected me? Consistently practicing these habits steers us away from Diotrephes’ pride and keeps Christ enthroned in our hearts and churches. |
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