Humility is a foundational virtue in the Christian life and plays a critical role in the process of discipleship. In the New Testament, humility is frequently highlighted as an essential characteristic for those who seek to follow Jesus Christ. The Berean Standard Bible provides several passages that underscore the importance of humility in the life of a disciple.

Biblical Foundation

The call to humility is rooted in the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. In Matthew 11:29 , Jesus invites His followers to "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Here, Jesus presents Himself as the ultimate model of humility, encouraging His disciples to emulate His gentle and humble nature.

The Apostle Paul further emphasizes the necessity of humility in Philippians 2:3-4 , where he instructs believers: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." This passage highlights the selfless nature of humility, urging disciples to prioritize the well-being of others above their own desires.

Humility and Servanthood

Humility is closely linked to the concept of servanthood, which is a central theme in discipleship. Jesus Himself demonstrated this connection in John 13:14-15 when He washed the feet of His disciples, saying, "So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example so that you should do as I have done for you." This act of service exemplifies the humility required of a disciple, as it involves setting aside personal status and pride to serve others.

Dependence on God

A humble disciple recognizes their dependence on God, acknowledging that all abilities and achievements are gifts from Him. James 4:10 advises believers to "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you." This verse underscores the principle that true exaltation comes from God and is granted to those who approach Him with a humble heart.

Humility in Community

Humility is also vital for maintaining unity and harmony within the Christian community. Ephesians 4:2-3 encourages believers to "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Humility fosters an environment where love and patience can thrive, enabling disciples to live in peace and unity with one another.

Resistance to Pride

The Scriptures warn against the dangers of pride, which stands in direct opposition to humility. Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This warning serves as a reminder that pride can lead to spiritual downfall, whereas humility opens the door to God's grace and guidance.

Conclusion

In summary, humility is an indispensable attribute for discipleship, as it aligns believers with the character of Christ, fosters servanthood, ensures dependence on God, promotes community unity, and guards against the perils of pride. Through humility, disciples are better equipped to grow in their faith and fulfill their calling to follow Jesus.