Pursuing Humility

Humility is a virtue that resides at the core of Christian character and conduct, serving as a foundational principle for evangelical theology. In a culture that frequently exalts self-promotion, personal achievement, and individual rights, the Biblical call to humility emerges as a radical, countercultural mandate for believers. From an evangelical perspective, humility transcends mere ethical behavior; it is a theological imperative, deeply rooted in the nature of God and vividly exemplified in the life, ministry, and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The Lord has specific purposes for each of us, yet He also sets forth universal goals for all believers, chief among them the relentless, lifelong pursuit of humility.

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Church at Ephesus, provides a compelling framework for understanding this pursuit. In Ephesians 4:1-3, he writes:

“I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:1-3, ESV)

This passage encapsulates a call to live in a way that reflects the high calling of the Gospel, with humility as the linchpin that enables virtues such as gentleness, patience, and love to flourish. As this discussion will unfold, a humble mindset is more than a healthy self-perception; it is a servant’s attitude that acknowledges our utter dependence on the Lord and recognizes the immense worth of every individual in God’s eyes. This recognition is not abstract but practical, fostering unity within the Church and embodying Christ’s love to the world.

In this blog post, we will explore the pursuit of humility through a rigorous exegetical analysis of Ephesians 4:1-3, followed by a theological discussion grounded in the broader witness of Scripture and evangelical thought. The aim is to elucidate how humility underpins Christian identity and communal life, offering both a personal challenge and a corporate vision for the Church.

Exegetical Analysis of Ephesians 4:1-3

To comprehend Paul’s exhortation in Ephesians 4:1-3, we must situate it within its literary and historical context while examining its linguistic nuances. The Book of Ephesians divides neatly into two sections: chapters 1–3 expound the doctrinal riches of God’s grace—election, redemption, and the sealing of the Holy Spirit—while chapters 4–6 translate these truths into practical ethics for Christian living. Ephesians 4:1 marks a pivotal transition, signaled by the conjunction “therefore” (οὖν), which links the preceding theology to the ensuing exhortation.

Ephesians 4:1 – The Foundation of the Worthy Walk

Paul begins, “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called” (Ephesians 4:1, ESV). Identifying himself as “a prisoner for the Lord,” Paul underscores his authority and the sacrificial cost of his ministry, enhancing the urgency of his appeal. The verb “urge” (παρακαλῶ), derived from Koine Greek, conveys a heartfelt plea, reflecting pastoral concern rather than mere command.

The imperative “walk” (περιπατῆσαι) is a metaphorical term prevalent in Pauline literature, denoting one’s manner of life or conduct. “Worthy” (ἀξίως) suggests a balance or alignment, implying that believers’ behavior should correspond to the grandeur of their divine calling. This “calling” (κλήσεως) encompasses the totality of God’s redemptive work outlined in chapters 1–3, a summons to participate in His eternal purposes. As evangelical commentator John Trapp notes, “Every believer is God’s first-born; and so higher than the kings of the earth, Psalm 89:27. He must therefore carry himself accordingly” (Trapp, as cited in historical commentary). This high status, however, demands humility, not pride, as the foundation for living out such a calling.

Ephesians 4:2-3 – The Character of Humility in Community

Paul elaborates on this worthy walk: “With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:2-3, ESV). These qualities form a constellation of virtues, with humility as the cornerstone.

• Humility (ταπεινοφροσύνη): This Greek term combines “ταπεινός” (lowly) and “φρήν” (mind), literally meaning “lowliness of mind.” In Greco-Roman culture, humility was disparaged as weakness or servility, yet Christianity redefines it as a virtue mirroring Christ’s disposition (Philippians 2:8). Humility entails recognizing our dependence on God and valuing others as bearers of His image, a theme central to this discussion.

• Gentleness (πραΰτης): Often translated “meekness,” this term denotes strength under control, not passivity. Jesus exemplifies this in Matthew 11:29 (ESV): “I am gentle and lowly in heart.” Gentleness flows from humility, enabling considerate interaction without self-assertion.

• Patience (μακροθυμία): Meaning “long-suffering,” this word reflects endurance in adversity or provocation. It is the opposite of a quick temper, crucial for sustaining relationships in a flawed community.

• Bearing with one another in love (ἀνεχόμενοι ἀλλήλων ἐν ἀγάπῃ): The verb “ἀνέχομαι” means to tolerate or endure, acknowledging mutual imperfections. This forbearance is animated by “ἀγάπη,” the self-sacrificial love epitomized by Christ.

• Eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit (σπουδάζοντες τηρεῖν τὴν ἑνότητα τοῦ πνεύματος): “Eager” (σπουδάζοντες) implies diligent effort. The “unity of the Spirit” is a divine gift, not a human achievement; believers preserve it through humble attitudes. The “bond of peace” (συνδέσμῳ τῆς εἰρήνης) serves as a unifying ligament, reinforcing communal harmony.

Historically, Charles Spurgeon emphasized that this unity is spiritual, not structural: “We want unity in the truth of God through the Spirit of God. This let us seek after; let us live near to Christ, for this is the best way of promoting unity” (Spurgeon, sermon on Ephesians 4). Humility is not optional but essential, enabling the Church to reflect its divine origin amidst diversity.

Theological Discussion

Humility is a pervasive theme throughout Scripture and integral to evangelical theology as a personal virtue and a communal mandate. It reflects God’s character, Christ’s example, and the Gospel’s transformative power, shaping believers’ identity and mission.

Humility in the Old Testament

In the Old Testament, humility emerges as a posture before God’s majesty. Isaiah 6:5 (ESV) captures this: “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips… for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts!” Isaiah’s recognition of his unworthiness exemplifies humility as awe and dependence. Psalm 25:9 (ESV) adds, “He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way,” linking humility to divine guidance. Proverbs 22:4 (ESV) promises, “The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life,” underscoring its blessings.

Humility in the New Testament

The New Testament elevates humility through Christ’s life and teachings. Philippians 2:5-8 (ESV) narrates His self-emptying: “Christ Jesus… emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant… he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” This kenosis is the ultimate paradigm of humility, redefining greatness as service. Jesus teaches in Matthew 23:11-12 (ESV), “The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted,” inverting worldly hierarchies.

Philippians 2:3 (ESV) further instructs, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. " This aligns with Ephesians 4:2’s call to love. This others-centeredness stems from recognizing each person’s worth in God’s eyes, a cornerstone of evangelical ethics.

Evangelical Theology and Humility

Humility is foundational to salvation and sanctification. Ephesians 2:8-9 (ESV) declares, “For by grace you have been saved through faith… not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” Salvation hinges on humble reliance on Christ’s atonement, not self-merit. James 4:6 (ESV) reinforces this: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble,” a principle echoed throughout Scripture.

Humility reflects the Gospel’s essence—God’s compassion toward humanity. Ephesians 4:32 (ESV) exhorts, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” This forgiveness flows from humility, acknowledging our shared need for grace. As Jonathan Edwards observed, “The more a true Christian is sensible of the greatness and glory of God, and of his own littleness and vileness, the more will he be humble” (Edwards, Religious Affections).

In the Church, humility fosters unity, countering pride’s divisive tendencies. Romans 12:3 (ESV) advises, “Not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment.” This sober, humble self-assessment enables mutual edification and preserves the Spirit’s unity (Ephesians 4:3).

Practical Pursuit of Humility

Pursuing humility requires intentionality. Spiritual disciplines—prayer, Scripture meditation, and the Lord’s Supper—reorient us to God’s sovereignty and Christ’s sacrifice. Community life offers practical arenas for humility as we forgive, serve, and bear with one another. A.W. Tozer aptly notes, “The meek man… has stopped being fooled about himself. He has accepted God’s estimate of his own life” (Tozer, The Pursuit of God), highlighting humility as truth-aligned living.

Conclusion

Pursuing humility is a lifelong vocation for believers, rooted in God’s nature, Christ’s example, and Scripture’s witness. Ephesians 4:1-3 reveals humility as the bedrock of a worthy walk, enabling gentleness, patience, and love to sustain the Church’s unity. Theologically, it embodies the Gospel’s grace, recognizing every individual’s worth in God’s eyes and our dependence on His mercy.

Humility is not optional but essential, shaping personal faith and corporate witness. A humble Church testifies to Christ’s reconciling love in a world of self-exaltation. May we heed Paul’s call to walk humbly, reflecting our Savior’s heart and advancing His kingdom, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6, ESV).