The Two Faces of Arrogance: A Lesson in Grace from Paul’s Epistle to the Corinthians

The Two Faces of Arrogance: A Lesson in Grace from Paul’s Epistle to the Corinthians

Isaac Megbolugbe
June 21, 2024

Introduction

Arrogance can manifest in different forms, fueled by various sources such as privilege, credentials, learning, position, pedigree, and wealth. However, there is another type of arrogance that emerges when individuals, once considered “nobodies,” become transformed and empowered. In his first epistle to the Corinthians, Paul addresses the latter, highlighting the dangers of arrogant pride and the transformative power of grace.

The Context: Corinth and the Early Church

The church in Corinth was established by Paul during his second missionary journey (around AD 50). Four years later, he wrote to a troubled church marked by conflicts, abuse of liberty, lack of humility, immorality, and disunity (1 Corinthians 1:26-31).

Arrogance Based on Privilege and Credentials

The Corinthians had begun to embrace a false sense of superiority, boasting in their wisdom, power, and status (1 Corinthians 1:26-27). Paul reminded them that God chose the foolish, weak, lowly, and despised to be His children, not the influential or powerful (1 Corinthians 1:27-28). This arrogance was rooted in their own perceived achievements and standing, rather than in God’s grace.

Arrogance Based on Transformation

However, there is another form of arrogance that emerges when individuals, once considered “nobodies,” become transformed and empowered. This arrogance stems from a sense of self-importance and a forgetfulness of one’s humble beginnings. Paul addressed this phenomenon in the Corinthian church, where some members had forgotten their former state and were now boasting in their newfound status (1 Corinthians 4:6-7).

The Lesson of Grace

Paul’s teachings on grace are pivotal in addressing both forms of arrogance. He emphasizes that salvation and spiritual gifts are not based on human merit or achievement but solely on God’s grace (Ephesians 2:8-9, 1 Corinthians 12:4-7). Grace humbles us, recognizing that our abilities and accomplishments are gifts from God, rather than our own doing (1 Corinthians 4:7).

General Lessons for Everyone

Paul’s epistle to the Corinthians offers essential lessons for all:

– Humility: Recognize your humble beginnings and the source of your abilities and accomplishments (1 Corinthians 4:7).

– Grace: Understand that salvation and spiritual gifts are solely based on God’s grace, not human merit (Ephesians 2:8-9).

– Unity: Embrace unity and diversity, acknowledging that all members are essential in the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

– Transformation: Remember your former state and the transformative power of God’s grace (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

Conclusion

In his epistle to the Corinthians, Paul addresses the twin dangers of arrogance based on privilege and transformation. He reminds us that true strength lies in humility, grace, and unity. As we acknowledge our humble beginnings and the transformative power of God’s grace, we can overcome arrogance and embrace our true identity in Christ.

References:

– The Holy Bible (ESV), 1 Corinthians 1:26-31, 4:6-7, 12:4-7, Ephesians 2:8-9
– The New Testament: A Historical Introduction to the Early Christian Writings, Bart Ehrman, Oxford University Press, 2016
– The Epistle to the Corinthians, Gordon D. Fee, Eerdmans Publishing, 1987