Expository Thoughts On Luke - Luke 14:7-14
J.C. Ryle emphasizes the vital Christian virtue of humility, teaching that true exaltation comes through self-lowering and recognizing one's dependence on Christ.
In this expository sermon on Luke 14:7-14, J.C. Ryle explores the profound Christian virtue of humility. He unpacks Jesus' teaching on taking the lowest place and the principle that God exalts the humble. Drawing from biblical examples and practical wisdom, Ryle encourages believers to cultivate humility as a foundational grace that adorns their faith and honors God.
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PLACES OF HONOR
Let us learn from these verses the value of humility. This is a lesson which our Lord teaches in two ways. Firstly, He advises those who are bidden to a wedding to "sit down in the lowest place." Secondly, He backs up His advice by declaring a great principle, which frequently fell from His lips--"Whoever exalts himself shall be abased, and he that humbles himself shall be exalted."
Humility may well be called the queen of the Christian graces. To know our own sinfulness and weakness, and to feel our need of Christ, is the very beginning of saving religion. It is a grace which has always been the distinguishing feature in the character of the holiest saints in every age. Abraham, and Moses, and Job, and David, and Daniel, and Paul, were all eminently humble men. Above all, it is a grace within the reach of every true Christian. All have not money to give away. All have not time and opportunities for working directly for Christ. All have not gifts of speech, and tact, and knowledge, in order to do good in the world. But all converted men should labor to adorn the doctrine they profess by humility. If they can do nothing else, they can strive to be humble.
Would we know the root and spring of humility? One word describes it. The root of humility is right knowledge. The man who really knows himself and his own heart--who knows God and His infinite majesty and holiness--who knows Christ, and the price at which he was redeemed--that man will never be a proud man. He will count himself, like Jacob, unworthy of the least of all God\
Sermon Outline
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I. The Lesson of Humility
- Jesus advises to take the lowest place at the wedding feast
- Humility is the root of true Christian grace
- Exalting oneself leads to abasement; humbling oneself leads to exaltation
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II. The Importance of Right Knowledge
- Humility springs from knowing oneself and God rightly
- Recognition of Christ’s sacrifice fosters humility
- True knowledge prevents pride
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III. Examples of Humble Saints
- Abraham, Moses, Job, David, Daniel, and Paul exemplify humility
- Humility is accessible to every Christian
- Humility adorns the Christian profession
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IV. Practical Application
- Strive to be humble in all circumstances
- Use humility as a way to glorify God
- Recognize personal weakness and dependence on Christ
Key Quotes
“Humility may well be called the queen of the Christian graces.” — J.C. Ryle
“Whoever exalts himself shall be abased, and he that humbles himself shall be exalted.” — J.C. Ryle
“The root of humility is right knowledge.” — J.C. Ryle
Application Points
- Practice humility by choosing to serve others rather than seeking honor.
- Cultivate right knowledge of God and self to root out pride.
- Recognize your dependence on Christ as the foundation for true humility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Jesus advise sitting in the lowest place?
Jesus teaches humility by encouraging believers to avoid seeking honor and instead adopt a posture of modesty and self-lowering.
What is the root of humility according to J.C. Ryle?
The root of humility is right knowledge—knowing oneself, God’s holiness, and Christ’s redeeming work.
Can all Christians practice humility?
Yes, humility is a grace within the reach of every true Christian regardless of gifts or resources.
How does humility relate to Christian character?
Humility is the queen of Christian graces and a distinguishing mark of the holiest saints.
What happens to those who exalt themselves?
They shall be abased, while those who humble themselves will be exalted.