The Throne and the Manger
Rejecting the Pride of Babylon
In every human heart, there lies a battlefield where two kingdoms wage war. On one side is the kingdom of the world, a realm that glorifies pride, power, and self-reliance. It’s a kingdom where the measure of success is how high you can climb and how loudly you can proclaim your achievements. On the other side is the kingdom of God, a kingdom where the greatest triumphs come through humility, where power is found in service, and where the true worth of a person is measured not by what they have but by to what degree they trust in God.
As Christians, we are called to navigate these two opposing kingdoms. The world tempts us with its seductive message of pride and self-importance, yet the gospel calls us to something radically different—a life modeled after Jesus Christ, who, though He was God, humbled Himself to the point of death on a cross. This essay explores the profound contrast between the pride that drives the kingdom of the world and the humility that defines the kingdom of God. It delves into the roots of pride, which often spring from feelings of worthlessness and insecurity, and examines how pride ultimately represents a lack of trust in God and a misguided reliance on our own resources.
In this journey, we will uncover the dangers of pride, the power of humility, and the daily choices we must make as citizens of God’s kingdom. Through this exploration, we will see why humility is not just a virtue, but a vital necessity for anyone who seeks to truly follow Christ in a world that constantly pulls us in the opposite direction.
The Kingdom of the World: Pride as Its Foundation
The kingdom of the world operates on the principle of pride. This pride manifests in various ways, such as the pursuit of power, the desire for recognition, and the relentless drive for personal success. In the kingdom of the world, pride is seen as a virtue. It is the engine that drives ambition, the force that motivates individuals to achieve greatness, and the means by which one secures a place of prominence.
However, the pride that the world celebrates is a dangerous and destructive force. At its core, pride is an inflated sense of self-importance and an exaggerated belief in one's abilities and worth. It is rooted in the belief that one's value comes from personal achievements, possessions, and social status. This belief leads to a sense of superiority over others and a desire to dominate and control.
The Bible provides numerous examples of how pride operates in the kingdom of the world. In the book of Genesis, the story of the Tower of Babel illustrates the destructive nature of pride. The people of Babel sought to build a tower that would reach the heavens, a symbol of their desire to make a name for themselves and to achieve greatness without God. Their pride led to their downfall, as God confused their language and scattered them across the earth (Genesis 11:1-9). This story serves as a reminder that pride leads to division, confusion, and ultimately, destruction.
The kingdom of the world also promotes pride by encouraging self-reliance and independence. In a world that values individualism, the idea of relying on anyone, including God, is often seen as a weakness. The message of the world is clear: success is achieved through personal effort, and those who depend on others are weak and undeserving of respect. This mindset is in direct opposition to the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized the importance of humility and dependence on God.
Jesus’s Humility: A Model for Christians
In contrast to the pride of the world, the kingdom of God is characterized by humility. Jesus Christ, our King, exemplified humility in every aspect of His life and ministry. From His birth in a humble manger to His death on a cross, Jesus consistently chose the path of humility over pride.
One of the most profound demonstrations of Jesus's humility is found in Philippians 2:5-8, where the Apostle Paul writes:
"Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross."
This passage highlights the radical nature of Jesus's humility. Despite being God, He did not cling to His divine status or use it to His advantage. Instead, He emptied Himself, taking on human form and becoming a servant. Jesus's humility was not just an external display; it was a deep, internal posture of the heart. He was willing to lay down His rights, privileges, and even His life for the sake of others.
Jesus's humility is further demonstrated in His interactions with people. He associated with the lowly, the outcasts, and the sinners—those whom society deemed unworthy of attention or respect. In doing so, Jesus challenged the social norms of His time and demonstrated that in the kingdom of God, greatness is not measured by power or status, but by love and service.
One of the most powerful examples of Jesus's humility is found in John 13:1-17, where He washes the feet of His disciples. This act of service was typically performed by a servant, yet Jesus, their Lord and Teacher, willingly took on this role. When Peter objected, Jesus responded, "If I do not wash you, you have no share with me" (John 13:8). Through this act, Jesus taught His disciples that true leadership in the kingdom of God is marked by humility and service, not by pride and authority.
The Roots of Pride: Worthlessness and Insecurity
To understand the contrast between the pride of the world and the humility of Christ, it is essential to explore the roots of pride. While pride often appears as self-confidence and strength, it is frequently rooted in feelings of worthlessness and insecurity.
At the heart of pride is a deep fear of inadequacy and a desperate need for validation. Those who struggle with pride often feel a profound sense of unworthiness and seek to compensate for this by elevating themselves above others. This can manifest in various ways, such as seeking recognition, striving for perfection, or being overly competitive. The underlying motivation is often a desire to prove one's worth and to protect oneself from feelings of shame and inadequacy.
The Bible addresses this issue in the story of King Saul. Saul was chosen by God to be the first king of Israel, but his reign was marked by insecurity and pride. Despite being anointed by God, Saul was constantly plagued by feelings of inadequacy. His insecurity led him to make foolish decisions, such as offering sacrifices in place of the prophet Samuel and attempting to kill David out of jealousy. Saul's pride and insecurity ultimately led to his downfall, as he became increasingly paranoid and alienated from God (1 Samuel 13-15, 18-19).
The roots of pride can also be traced back to the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve succumbed to the temptation to become "like God" by eating the forbidden fruit (Genesis 3:5). Their desire to elevate themselves and to be independent of God was rooted in a lack of trust in God's goodness and a belief that they could achieve something greater on their own. This act of pride led to their separation from God and the introduction of sin into the world.
In the kingdom of the world, pride is often encouraged as a means of overcoming feelings of worthlessness. However, this approach is ultimately futile, as it only leads to further alienation from God and others. The more one strives to prove their worth through prideful actions, the more they distance themselves from the true source of their value, which is found in God's love and grace.
Pride as a Lack of Trust in God
Pride is not only rooted in feelings of worthlessness, but it is also a manifestation of a lack of trust in God. When individuals rely on their own resources, abilities, and efforts, they are essentially placing their trust in themselves rather than in God. This self-reliance is a form of pride, as it elevates the self above God and disregards His sovereignty.
The Bible repeatedly warns against the dangers of self-reliance and pride. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages believers to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." This passage highlights the importance of trusting in God's wisdom and guidance rather than relying on our own understanding.
In the New Testament, Jesus teaches about the dangers of self-reliance in the parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16-21). The rich man in the parable accumulated great wealth and believed that he could secure his future through his own efforts. However, God called him a fool, as he had placed his trust in his possessions rather than in God. The man's prideful self-reliance led to his downfall, as he failed to recognize that his life was ultimately in God's hands.
Pride also leads to a lack of dependence on God in times of need. When individuals are prideful, they are less likely to turn to God in prayer and seek His help. Instead, they attempt to solve their problems on their own, believing that they have the power and resources to do so. This attitude is in direct opposition to the teachings of Jesus, who encouraged His followers to pray and to depend on God for their daily needs (Matthew 6:9-13).
The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of pride and self-reliance in his letter to the Corinthians. In 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, Paul describes a "thorn in the flesh" that was given to him to keep him from becoming conceited. Despite his pleas for God to remove the thorn, Paul came to understand that it was through his weakness that God's power was made perfect. He writes, "Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong." Paul's experience teaches us that true strength is found in humility and dependence on God, not in prideful self-reliance.
Humility as the Path to True Greatness
In stark contrast to the pride of the world, the kingdom of God calls believers to a life of humility. Jesus's teachings and example make it clear that humility is not a sign of weakness, but a path to true greatness in the eyes of God.
Jesus's Sermon on the Mount provides a blueprint for the values of the kingdom of God. In Matthew 5:3-12, Jesus pronounces blessings on those who embody humility, meekness, and a hunger for righteousness. He declares, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth" (Matthew 5:3, 5). These statements challenge the values of the world, which often celebrate power, wealth, and self-assertion. Instead, Jesus elevates those who recognize their need for God and who live in humility before Him.
The kingdom of God operates on a principle that is often referred to as the "upside-down kingdom." In this kingdom, the last are first, the least are the greatest, and the humble are exalted. Jesus's life and ministry exemplify this principle, as He consistently chose the path of humility and service over pride and self-exaltation.
One of the most profound teachings on humility is found in Matthew 18:1-4, where Jesus uses a child as an example of the kind of humility that is required to enter the kingdom of heaven. When the disciples asked Jesus who was the greatest in the kingdom of heaven, He responded by calling a child to Him and saying, "Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." In this teaching, Jesus emphasizes that greatness in God's kingdom is not about power or status, but about humility, trust, and dependence on God.
The Apostle Peter echoes this teaching in his first epistle, where he writes, "Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.' Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you" (1 Peter 5:5-6). Peter reminds believers that humility is not only essential in their relationship with God but also in their relationships with one another. By humbling themselves, believers align with God's will and position themselves to receive His grace and exaltation.
Humility also plays a crucial role in maintaining unity within the body of Christ. In Philippians 2:1-4, Paul urges believers to "do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." This exhortation highlights the importance of humility in fostering love, unity, and mutual care within the Christian community.
The Battle Between Two Kingdoms
The kingdom of God and the kingdom of the world are in constant conflict, particularly in the area of pride and humility. As believers, we are called to live in the kingdom of God and to embody its values, even as we navigate a world that often promotes the opposite.
This battle is not just external but internal as well. Each believer faces the daily challenge of choosing between pride and humility, self-reliance and dependence on God. The world tempts us with the allure of pride, offering temporary rewards such as recognition, success, and power. However, these rewards are fleeting and ultimately lead to spiritual emptiness and separation from God.
In contrast, the rewards of humility are eternal. By choosing humility, believers align themselves with the values of the kingdom of God and position themselves to receive His grace, peace, and ultimately, eternal life. The Apostle James writes, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you" (James 4:10). This promise assures us that God honors those who walk in humility and that His exaltation is far greater than anything the world can offer.
The battle between pride and humility is also a reflection of the spiritual warfare that takes place within the hearts of believers. The enemy seeks to tempt us with pride, knowing that it leads to destruction and separation from God. However, by resisting pride and choosing humility, we strengthen our relationship with God and resist the schemes of the enemy.
The practice of humility also serves as a powerful witness to the world. In a culture that often celebrates pride and self-promotion, the humility of Christ's followers stands out as a counter-cultural testimony to the values of the kingdom of God. As believers model the humility of Jesus in their words and actions, they reflect His character to the world and draw others to the gospel.
Conclusion
The contrast between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of the world is stark, particularly in the areas of pride and humility. While the world promotes pride as a means of achieving success and significance, the kingdom of God calls believers to a life of humility, modeled after Jesus Christ. The roots of pride are often found in feelings of worthlessness and a lack of trust in God, leading individuals to rely on their own resources and abilities. However, this path ultimately leads to spiritual emptiness and separation from God.
In contrast, humility is the path to true greatness in the kingdom of God. By choosing humility, believers align themselves with God's values, position themselves to receive His grace, and bear witness to the gospel. The battle between pride and humility is ongoing, but through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers can resist the temptations of pride and live in the humility that reflects the character of Christ.
As we strive to live in the kingdom of God, may we follow the example of Jesus, who "humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross" (Philippians 2:8). In doing so, we fulfill our calling as citizens of God's kingdom, living lives that honor Him and draw others to His saving grace.
As you reflect on your own life, have there been moments where you’ve acted in alignment with the kingdom of the world—embracing pride, self-reliance, or a desire for recognition—rather than living out the humility to which Christ calls you? If so, pray this prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come before You, acknowledging the times when I have allowed pride to take root in my heart. There have been moments when I sought recognition, relied on my own strength, and elevated myself above others. I confess that in doing so, I have strayed from the path You have set before me, choosing the ways of the world over the way of humility that Jesus modeled for me.
Lord, I ask for Your forgiveness and grace. Help me to release my grip on pride and to trust in You fully. Teach me to find my worth not in my achievements or status, but in Your unchanging love. Grant me the courage to humble myself before You and others, to serve with a heart like Christ’s, and to live in a way that reflects Your kingdom. Help me to be like Jesus who went from a throne of endless glory to a cradle in the dirt.
Strengthen me to resist the temptations of the world and to walk in the humility that leads to true greatness in Your sight. May my life be a testament to Your grace and may my actions draw others to Your love. In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen.
Bibliography
Books and Commentaries:
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. The Cost of Discipleship. New York: Touchstone, 1995.
Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. New York: HarperCollins, 2001.
Tozer, A.W. The Pursuit of God. Camp Hill: Christian Publications, 1982.
Piper, John. Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist. Colorado Springs: Multnomah, 2011.
Scripture References
Philippians 2:5-8 (ESV)
Genesis 11:1-9 (ESV)
1 Samuel 13-15, 18-19 (ESV)
Genesis 3:5 (ESV)
Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
Luke 12:16-21 (ESV)
Matthew 6:9-13 (ESV)
2 Corinthians 12:7-10 (ESV)
Matthew 5:3-12 (ESV)
Matthew 18:1-4 (ESV)
1 Peter 5:5-6 (ESV)
Philippians 2:1-4 (ESV)
James 4:10 (ESV)