I Have Need of Humility
The sermon emphasizes the importance of humility and meekness in the Christian life, and the need to cultivate these virtues in order to resist the devil and put God's will above one's own desires.
Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the importance of measuring oneself and avoiding boasting, instead encouraging glorying in the Lord. He acknowledges the need to be fearful even when established in things of God, warning against being puffed up by vain commendations. Ignatius expresses a desire to suffer for the faith but recognizes the unseen envy and warfare of the wicked one, highlighting the necessity of meekness to overcome the devil, the prince of this world.
Text
But I measure myself, that I may not perish through boasting: but it is good to glory in the Lord. And even though I were established in things pertaining to God, yet then would it befit me to be the more fearful, and not give heed to those that vainly puff me up. For those that commend me scourge me.
[I do indeed desire to suffer ], but I know not if I be worthy to do so. For the envy of the wicked one is not visible to many, but it wars against me. I therefore have need of meekness, by which the devil, the prince of this world, is brought to nought.
Sermon Outline
- The Danger of Boasting
- The Reality of Suffering
- The Importance of Humility
- The role of meekness in resisting the devil
- The need for humility in the face of adversity
Key Quotes
“For those that commend me scourge me.” — Ignatius of Antioch
“I therefore have need of meekness, by which the devil, the prince of this world, is brought to nought.” — Ignatius of Antioch
Application Points
- Recognize your own weaknesses and limitations, and seek to put others before yourself.
- Cultivate humility by relying on God and trusting in His sovereignty, especially in the midst of suffering.
- Desire to suffer for Christ, and seek to put God's will above your own desires.