The Cross and Christian Humility

Beloved Kinney,

I recently came across a penetrating rhetorical question asked by Carl Henry, founder of
Christianity Today, when he was asked about how he remains humble. Here’s what he
said, “How can anyone be arrogant if he stands beside the cross?”

The cross is the epitome of humility. Paul says so much in Philippians 2, “And being
found in human form, [Jesus] humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of
death, even death on a cross.” That God became man is humble enough. That he came
to die demonstrates humility all the more. That he came to die for unworthy sinners like
you and me shows it even more. That he came to die on a cross…well, there is no
greater act of humility.

And therefore, if we spend any amount of time truly reflecting on the cross, how can we
possibly be arrogant? How can we look at ourselves with great esteem while we’re
looking at the cross with great esteem? It’s impossible. And therefore, whenever there is
an ounce of arrogance in us, it’s because we’re not looking hard enough at the cross.

Or to state it differently, if you want to kill any ounce of arrogance in you, look at the
cross. Look at what Jesus did for you. He came to earth…as a man…to die…a
criminal’s death…on a cross.

“Amazing love! How can it be? That thou my God shouldst die for me!” Amen.

Stay humble, my friends. Look to the cross.

Love,
Pastor Josh