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I. WHAT IT IS. A branch of pride which makes men refer all they have or can do to show their own private glory and advancement.

II. WHY THE GALATIANS WERE ADMONISHED OF IT? They Were adorned with many excellences, and those who are so favoured are frequently the most vainglorious (2 Corinthians 12:7; Matthew 6:5). Other vices feed on evil; this on good. For a man will be proud sometimes, even because he is not proud.

III. WHERE IS IT TO BE FOUND?

1. In a Church where men make a great show of piety to be praised of men, but not at home to be praised of God.

2. In the world, for honour and renown.

IV. WHAT IS THE REMEDY?

1. Meditation on these facts.

(1)  God resisteth the proud, etc. (1 Peter 5:5).

(2)  It is the work of the devil to puff up that he may pull down; but God abases that He may exalt.

(3)  Vainglory is a sure mark of impiety (John 5:44).

2. Practice.

(1)  Acknowledge God's majesty and our own vileness.

(2)  God's grace and our own indebtedness.

(3)  Approve ourselves to God first.

(4)  When reviled, be content; when praised, take heed.

(W. Perkins.)

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KJV: Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

WEB: Let's not become conceited, provoking one another, and envying one another.