Humility and Its Effects

Rev. Dr. Jack Whytock's sermon addresses a problem in the early church in Corinth, as discussed by Paul in 1 Corinthians 8: the issue of Christians eating meat that had been offered in pagan temple sacrifices. He explains that some Christians, possessing knowledge that idols are nothing, felt free to eat this meat, while others, with more sensitive consciences due to their recent conversion from paganism, were deeply offended by this practice. Paul identifies the core of the problem as a lack of love and humility among the knowledgeable Christians.

Dr. Whytock outlines a three-fold remedy to this problem. Firstly, he emphasizes the need for humility, urging the arrogant Christians to replace their pride with a spirit of lowliness and sensitivity towards their weaker brothers. Secondly, he stresses the importance of love, advocating for a sacrificial love that seeks to build up and strengthen others, rather than exalting oneself. He argues that true Christian love, like God's love in the sacrifice of Jesus, should be the guiding principle.

Finally, Dr. Whytock calls for wisdom. He argues that the knowledgeable Christians in Corinth were acting unwisely by disregarding the consciences of their fellow believers. Drawing from Proverbs 11:2, he asserts that humility leads to wisdom, and that true wisdom involves applying knowledge with understanding and consideration for others. He concludes by urging the congregation to pursue this kind of wisdom, characterized by humility and love, which ultimately builds up the church.