Humility and Honour in the Kingdom

In the gospels, we encounter a profound narrative of humility and honour through the life of John the Baptist. John 3:27 captures a moment that speaks volumes about the culture of God's kingdom. John, speaking to his disciples amidst a brewing dispute, utters words of deep wisdom, "A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven." This simple yet profound acknowledgement sets the stage for a discussion on the intrinsic values of God's kingdom: humility and honour.

God's kingdom operates on principles that often run counter to the values celebrated by the world. It is a kingdom where the last shall be first (Matthew 20:16), and the leaders serve (Matthew 20:26-28). John the Baptist exemplified this culture when he chose to deflect attention from himself to Christ, demonstrating that true humility is not thinking less of oneself but thinking of oneself less.

In today’s times, humility is often mistakenly seen as weakness or lack of ambition. However, biblical humility is a strength that recognises our dependence on God. It is well captured in Proverbs 22:4, which says, "By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life." When we understand that every good and perfect gift is from above (James 1:17), we start to see our successes and failures in light of God’s sovereignty, and competition gives way to cooperation.

John's role as the forerunner to Jesus was pivotal. Yet, when faced with the choice to compete with Jesus for followers, he chose to honour Him instead. John's life was a testament to the scripture that says, "He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30). This is the essence of honour in the kingdom—lifting others up, sometimes above ourselves, because we understand our roles in the grander narrative that God is writing.

In the body of Christ, each member has a unique function (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). When one part of the body is honoured, every part rejoices. This is true humility—rejoicing in another’s success as if it were our own. By keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2), we can resist the urge to compete and instead collaborate for the expansion of His kingdom.

When we root ourselves in Christ, as Colossians 2:19 urges, we grow with the increase that comes from God. It is in the abiding relationship with Jesus that we find the grace to remain humble and the capacity to honour others sincerely. This is not a passive humility that shies away from achievement but an active one that recognises the source of all blessings.

The early church gives us a beautiful picture of humility in action. Acts 4:32 tells us that the multitude of believers were of one heart and soul. There was no needy person among them because they shared everything they had. Their humility fostered a sense of unity and honour among them that was a powerful testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus.

As we reflect on these truths, let us consider our paths. Are we competing where we should be completing each other? Are we seeking honour for ourselves, or are we looking to honour God and others?

Humility and Honour in the Kingdom

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