Social science has begun grappling with the impacts of the push to give children higher self esteem, leading to an increase in narcissism broadly.
Jesus in Matthew 18 addresses the question of greatness. When asked who the greatest in the kingdom is, Jesus gives a clear answer about the foundation of greatness – it begins with lowliness and humility.
Many try to take the child concept and extend it in all kinds of directions, but Jesus is clear about what childlike characteristic is important here.
The importance of humility was clear through the Old Testament, from Micah 6:8 to the book of Proverbs to the example of Moses, “the most humble man in all the world.” And yet Jesus comes into the world to find pride and domination ruling the day.
What exactly does this instruction suggest, then? What are the humble aspects of children we should seek to emulate. One is a simplicity of faith. Children are open to hearing about the works of God without the cynicism we gain. Related, children are teachable and curious, asking why constantly and taking things apart to see how they work. Children are dependent and, notably, are not remotely self-conscious about that fact. As adults, we feel and seek self sufficiency but it is ultimately an illusion. We “live and move and have our being” through the active will of God.
Jesus sets the ultimate example of this, despite being the incarnate creator. He tells us “I am gentle and lowly of heart.”
The essential nature of humility is one of the key threads unifying the teaching of the church throughout time. From the church fathers to the doctors of the church to the reformers to the pastors and thinkers of the list few centuries, all are unified on this point. And yet how much time do we spend concerned with our, praying for it or encouraging each other in it?
Jesus then shifts from speaking about emulating the humble to protecting them, warning against leading the young and young believers astray – within context, the sin of pride being the one to of mind.
He then goes on to use shock value to emphasize the evil of sins like pride. Self mutilation was against the law of Moses and would be immediately repulsive to his audience. And yet Jesus clearly sets it up as the superior alternative to remaining in our sin.
Then he moves on again, because what does God do when we do turn away? To answer, he brings in the story of the shepherd who leaves the 99 good sheep to go after the one who has wandered off. Within the context of pride and humility, we see the temptation to be offended like the older brother in the parable of the prodigal son.
God’s heart is for those who are lost – he takes joy in the saved but truly rejoices in those who return after wandering away. Likewise, we are to seek the good of those who are wandering over our own blessings and comfort.
Jesus calls us to deep and profound humility, because that is where true greatness lies. At the end of the day, greatness is in the eyes of God, and that is what He seeks.
– Sermon Notes, Jeff Sickles, Snohomish Evangelical Free Church, Snohomish, WA, October 24, 2021