How can we remain humble, according to 1 Corinthians 4:18? Setting the Scene Paul writes to believers who have begun to “puff up” in his absence, trusting in their own importance rather than in Christ’s authority working through His apostles. Key Verse “Some of you have become arrogant, as if I were not coming to you.” 1 Corinthians 4:18 What Humility Looks Like in This Passage • Live with an awareness that spiritual leaders are truly coming back to inspect our walk—ultimately, Christ Himself (v. 5, v. 19). • Recognize arrogance the moment it appears; Paul labels it plainly instead of excusing it. • Submit to apostolic teaching rather than personality-driven factions (v. 6). • Remember that everything we have is received, not earned (v. 7). • Embrace weakness and servanthood, as Paul does, instead of seeking comfort and applause (vv. 9-13). Steps for Remaining Humble • Keep the future evaluation before us: “He will bring to light what is hidden” (v. 5). • Compare ourselves only to Christ, not to other believers (2 Corinthians 10:12). • Welcome correction—Paul promises to “find out not the talk of these arrogant people but their power” (v. 19). • Choose the cross-shaped life daily, boasting only in the Lord (Galatians 6:14). • Serve rather than rule: “We are fools for Christ, but you are wise… we are weak, but you are strong” (v. 10). Daily Practices • Begin each day thanking God for every gift; gratitude displaces pride. • Read scripture aloud, letting it expose hidden motives (Hebrews 4:12-13). • Seek unnoticed acts of service; anonymity trains the heart away from applause (Matthew 6:1-4). • Stay accountable—invite mature believers to speak into your life, as Timothy was sent to Corinth for that purpose (v. 17). • Regularly recall Christ’s example: though “in very nature God,” He “emptied Himself” (Philippians 2:5-8). Why This Matters The kingdom of God “is not a matter of talk but of power” (v. 20). True power is displayed when believers walk in meekness, trusting God’s strength rather than their own. Remaining humble keeps us aligned with Christ, open to His correction, and ready for His return. |
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