You are unique and exceptional — like everybody else
Scripture reading: Luke 18:9 14. Text: “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.” Proverbs 16:18 19.
We will start a sermon series on “the seven deadly sins.” Pope Gregory the Great, at the end of the 6th century, divided all sins under seven heads. Instead of saying “seven deadly sins,” we can also say, seven basic or root sins, because from them many other human shortcomings originate. Several books have been written on this subject, and I have gathered my thoughts from them. The first deadly or root sin is pride.
Spiritual pride. In Genesis 3:5, the serpent said to Eve, “‘For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.'”
Spiritual pride ruins the relationship between God and man. Not only in history but even the present days are full of attempts when human beings wish to deify themselves and control God. Whenever the human ego wanted to liberate itself from divine guidance, the result was not the expected freedom but unexpected chaos and hostility.
Intellectual pride. “‘What do you know that we do not know? What insights do you have that we do not have?'” Job 15:9.
This pride wrecks the relationship between individuals. In this scientific age, knowledge is glorified. “Scientific breakthrough” is a magic expression. Christian faith should not hinder anyone’s intellect, rather it should stimulate it. Knowledge correctly applied is beneficial; however, if it is used pridefully to elevate oneself above others it is destructive.
Material pride. “What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?” 1 Corinthians 4:7/b.
The pride of possession destroys our relationship with the world. Material pride confuses the biblical teaching of ownership: “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it,” Psalm 24:1/a. Our values get misplaced also because we look at what another person has and not what he/she is.
Social pride. “The Samaritan woman said to him, ‘You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?’ (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)” John 4:9.
Corporate pride confuses the relationship between groups. The tension evolves so easily between racial, ethnic, cultural and religious groups, and it creates division. There is no superior race, more significant class or perfect religion when it is practiced. Social pride is prejudice shared with others.
It is easy to notice the correlation among the four versions of the first root sin: pride. The word of God not only condemns pride but also offers the remedy: “‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, (that is the humble) for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.'” Matthew 5:3.
The Rev. Alexander Jalso is a retired United Presbyterian pastor living in Ligonier.