Wise Community II

Sermon Introduction

Our church community must grow in wisdom and harmony. Each member must contribute to its growth. One way is to walk in humility, and remove foolish boasting and prideful arrogance. The focus of our praise and boasting is Christ alone, the head of the church, none other, not the self, and not the community.

Eddie Labios Jr. Pastor

Proverbs 11:2 NASB

When pride comes, then comes dishonor;
But with the humble there is wisdom.

Proverbs 25:14 NASB

Like clouds and wind without rain
Is a person who boasts of his gifts falsely.

Proverbs 25:27 NASB

It is not good to eat much honey,
Nor is it glory to search out one’s own glory.

Proverbs 27:1-2 NASB

1 Do not boast about tomorrow,
For you do not know what a day may bring.
2 Let another praise you, and not your own mouth;
A stranger, and not your own lips.

Notes

Our church community must grow in wisdom and harmony. Each member must contribute to its growth. One way is to walk in humility, and remove foolish boasting and prideful arrogance. The focus of our praise and boasting is Christ alone, the head of the church, none other, not the self, and not the community.

1. Wisdom warns against pride, which leads to dishonor. But wisdom is with the humble. Therefore, community members must strive to live in humility with one another so the community may be filled with wisdom.

   When pride comes, then comes dishonor;
   But with the humble there is wisdom. (11:2)

2. It is not wise to boast about gifts and talents that one does not have. If one boasts of ideas and qualifications that cannot be backed up, one will look foolish. It will only bring shame. Best to serve with our gifts and not boast.

   Like clouds and wind without rain
   Is a person who boasts of his gifts falsely. (25:14)

3. Wisdom warns against excessive pleasure like sweet food. Why? Because too much could be hazardous to one’s health. So is seeking selfish glory. It is counterproductive to the soul and not glorifying to the Lord.

   It is not good to eat much honey,
   Nor is it glory to search out one’s own glory. (25:27)

4. It is not wise to boast about our plans. Instead, we should say, “If the Lord wills, or God-willing.” We should make plans, but we should surrender them all to the Lord. God-willing, the community will achieve many things.

   Do not boast about tomorrow,
   For you do not know what a day may bring. (27:1)

5. Wisdom warns against praising ourselves. It is not wise to try to attract too much attention to us and our community. Our community must praise only the Triune God and submit only to His word.

   Let another praise you, and not your own mouth;
   A stranger, and not your own lips. (27:2)

Reflection & Discussion

1. What comes with pride? What comes with humility?

2. Why should we serve with our gifts? Why should one avoid bragging about underdeveloped talents?

3. What is the connection of too much honey and seeking one’s own glory?

4. Why should we not boast about our plans for the future?

5. What should we avoid doing according to Proverbs 27:2?