Imprisoned by Pride (JICC)
Weekly Reading
Monday: Numbers 8, John 20
Tuesday: Numbers 9, John 21
Wednesday: Numbers 10, Acts 1
Thursday: Numbers 11, Acts 2
Friday: Numbers 12, Acts 3
Saturday: Psalm 71-72, Proverbs 15
Sunday: Ezra 5-10, Nehemiah 1-4
Tuesday: Numbers 9, John 21
Wednesday: Numbers 10, Acts 1
Thursday: Numbers 11, Acts 2
Friday: Numbers 12, Acts 3
Saturday: Psalm 71-72, Proverbs 15
Sunday: Ezra 5-10, Nehemiah 1-4
Sermon Notes
Key Passage: Matthew 13:53-14:12
"The very thing you’re most proud of right now might be the thing that’s keeping you from what you want most.”
Consider
1. Rejection of Jesus’ Hometown
Where are you so convinced you know the full story that you've stopped listening?
2. Hubris of Herod’s Oath
Herod couldn't say three simple words - "I was wrong" - in front of his guests.
Why are these words so difficult to say?
What makes admitting error feel like weakness rather than strength?
3. Tragedy of Caravaggio’s Life
What redemption or reconciliation might you be rejecting because it doesn't come on your terms?
What community are you pushing away because accepting help would require admitting need?
Imagine
The relationships you could have if you could admit you’re wrong.
The opportunities you could seize if you could ask for help.
The person you could become if you could step out of the prison your pride has built.
Admit
The hard part ...
"I might be wrong"
"I need help"
"I was wrong. I'm sorry. Will you forgive me?"
Which of these is hardest for you personally?
What would change in your relationships if you said these more freely?
What specific, practical steps can you take this week to choose humility over pride?
How will you recognize when pride is rising and choose differently?
Look to Jesus
How does Christ's example of chosen humility challenge or encourage you in your own struggles with pride?
"The very thing you’re most proud of right now might be the thing that’s keeping you from what you want most.”
Consider
1. Rejection of Jesus’ Hometown
Where are you so convinced you know the full story that you've stopped listening?
2. Hubris of Herod’s Oath
Herod couldn't say three simple words - "I was wrong" - in front of his guests.
Why are these words so difficult to say?
What makes admitting error feel like weakness rather than strength?
3. Tragedy of Caravaggio’s Life
What redemption or reconciliation might you be rejecting because it doesn't come on your terms?
What community are you pushing away because accepting help would require admitting need?
Imagine
The relationships you could have if you could admit you’re wrong.
The opportunities you could seize if you could ask for help.
The person you could become if you could step out of the prison your pride has built.
Admit
The hard part ...
"I might be wrong"
"I need help"
"I was wrong. I'm sorry. Will you forgive me?"
Which of these is hardest for you personally?
What would change in your relationships if you said these more freely?
What specific, practical steps can you take this week to choose humility over pride?
How will you recognize when pride is rising and choose differently?
Look to Jesus
How does Christ's example of chosen humility challenge or encourage you in your own struggles with pride?
Discussion Questions
3DQ - 3 discipleship questions to ask each other: What is God saying to you? What are you going to do about it? How can I help?
No Comments