Direction 4: Beware of the Perils of Pride
Baxter's Directory
From Part 3 of Baxter’s Christian Directory. Chapter 7: Directions for the Discovery of the Truth among Contenders, and the Escape of Heresy and Deceit. Direction 4
Introduction
‘Take heed of pride, which will make you dote upon your own conceits, and cause you to slight the weightiest reasons that are brought by others, for your conviction.’ And if once you have espoused an error it will engage all your wit, and zeal, and diligence to maintain it: it will make you uncharitable and furious against all that cross you in your way; and so make you either persecutors (if you stand on the higher ground), or sect-leaders, or church-dividers, and turbulent and censorious, if you are on the lower ground. There is very great reason in Paul’s advice for the choice of a bishop, “Not a novice; lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.” (Richard Baxter)
In this lesson, we will explore the dangers of pride as articulated by Richard Baxter, especially when it comes to holding on to one’s convictions. Pride, Baxter warns, can blind us to the wisdom of others and entrench us in error, unwilling to see true light brought to us by others. This lesson examines the destructive consequences of pride, emphasizing the importance of humility and openness to correction as we seek to grow in our faith.
Key Principles
1. Humility in Leadership: Leaders must exhibit humility to avoid the pitfalls of pride, as pride can lead to condemnation (1 Timothy 3:6).
2. Openness to Correction: Having a teachable spirit and being open to correction and the insights of others guards us against the alluring dangers of error (Proverbs 12:1).
3. Unity and Charity: Maintaining unity and demonstrating charity towards others prevents division within the Church, but must always be built upon the truth of God’s Word (Ephesians 4:2-3).
Discussion and Personal Reflection Questions
1. Can you recall a time when pride led you to dismiss someone else’s advice? How did it turn out?
2. How can you cultivate a spirit of humility in your daily interactions?
3. What steps can you take to ensure you remain open to correction from others?
4. How does pride affect relationships within your family, church, or workplace?
5. In what ways can we practice bearing with one another in love as Ephesians 4:2-3 suggests?
6. How do you handle criticism or correction? What can you learn from Baxter’s spiritual counsel?
7. How can you discern if your motivations are driven by selfish ambition or humility?
8. What role does prayer play in helping you stay humble?
9. How can church leaders model humility for their congregations?
10. What practical ways can you show charity and love to those who disagree with you?
Action Steps
1. Daily Self-Examination: Spend time each day reflecting on your actions and attitudes, asking God to reveal any prideful areas in your heart. (For you Methodists, John Wesley was big on this.)
2. Seek Accountability: Find a trusted and godly friend or mentor who you will permit to hold you accountable and provide honest feedback on your behavior.
3. Practice Humility: Intentionally place yourself in situations where you must listen to and consider the perspectives of others, particularly those who may challenge your views. (File this under, “Easier said than done.”)
4. Prayer for Humility: Regularly pray for a humble heart and the grace to accept correction and guidance from God and others. Meditate upon Scripture that emphasizes such humility.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, we come before you with humble hearts, acknowledging the dangers of pride in our lives. All too often it sneaks up on us when we let our guard down. Grant us the grace to heed the wisdom of others and to remain open to their correction insofar as it aligns with your Word. Guard our hearts against the dangerous deceit of pride and guide us in you’re the life-transforming power of your truth. We pray for the strength to lovingly build up our brothers and sisters in Christ and to maintain the bond of peace within your Church. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.