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Wisdom from an early Church Father - Humility

But now, Job, listen to my words; pay attention to everything I say. . . .I am the same as you in God’s sight; I too am a piece of clay. (Job 33:1, 6)

Arrogant teachers have this characteristic: they do not know how to teach humbly, and they cannot properly convey the things they understand. Their way of speaking betrays their teaching— they act as if they live on lofty heights, looking down disdainfully on their students. They regard their subjects as inferiors, to whom they do not condescend to listen; in fact, they barely talk with them at all — they simply lay down the law.

On the contrary true doctrine eliminates arrogance through reflection, because right teaching attacks arrogance in the teacher’s heart. It ensures that the humility it aims to instill in the listeners’ hearts is actually preached by a humble man. For humility, the mother of virtues, teaches by word and demonstrates by example. 

The goal of true doctrine is to express humility among disciples more by deeds than by words. When Paul tells his disciples, “These things command and teach with all power” (1 Tim. 4:11), he means the credibility that comes with good behavior rather than the domineering exercise of power. When one practices first and preaches afterward, one is really teaching with power. 

One’s doctrine loses credibility if one’s conscience condemns his heart. So Paul is not speaking of the power of fancy rhetoric but of the confidence gained by good deeds. It is said of the Lord, “He taught with authority unlike the scribes and the Pharisees” (Matt. 7:29). In a unique and sovereign way, he spoke with the power of his own goodness since he had no sin. His sinless human nature wielded the authority given to it by his divine nature. 

~Gregory the Great

Gregory was considered a Pope by the Catholic Church.  He was the Bishop of Rome from 590 a.d. until his death in 604 a.d.  He was a scholar and a musician who strongly believed in worship.  It's from him that Roman worship begins to include "Gregorian chants" as part of their worship.

Peace

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