How can we avoid the pride seen in Matthew 21:27 in our lives? Setting the Scene “ ‘So they answered Jesus, “We do not know.” And He replied, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.” ’ (Matthew 21:27) Why This Moment Matters • The chief priests and elders pretend ignorance to avoid admitting the truth about John the Baptist—and about Jesus. • Their concern for reputation outweighs their concern for repentance. • Jesus exposes their hidden pride by refusing to play along. Recognizing Pride’s Footprints • Fear of losing status or influence • Unwillingness to admit ignorance or error • Concern for appearances over sincerity • Selective obedience—accepting Scripture that flatters us but dodging what confronts us Root Causes of Spiritual Pride • Self-reliance: trusting our insights more than God’s Word (Proverbs 3:5-7) • People-pleasing: needing approval from others (John 12:42-43) • Hardness of heart: repeated resistance to conviction (Hebrews 3:12-13) Practical Steps to Guard Our Hearts 1. Daily self-examination – Pray with David, “Search me, O God, and know my heart…” (Psalm 139:23-24). 2. Quick confession – When the Spirit exposes sin, repent immediately (1 John 1:9). 3. Celebrate others’ insights – “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:21). 4. Seek hidden service – Choose tasks that receive little applause (Matthew 6:3-4). 5. Stay gospel-focused – Remember we stand by grace alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). Scriptures That Keep Us Low Before God • “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) • “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:31) • “Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” (1 Peter 5:6) • “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12) Living the Lesson • Cultivate transparency with trusted believers. • Invite correction; treat it as God’s kindness (Proverbs 27:6). • Keep your eyes on Christ’s humility (Philippians 2:5-8). When Jesus is our focus, there’s no stage left for pride to perform. |
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