Humility Discussion Questions

1. What is the main theme of Chapter 1 of Andrew Murray's 'Humility', and how does it relate to the relationship between God and His creations?

The main theme of Chapter 1 is the importance of humility as the foundational virtue that defines the relationship between God and His creations. Murray emphasizes that God created the universe to share His perfection and glory, and that every creature's existence depends entirely on God. This dependence requires humility, as recognizing one's nothingness before God allows for His presence and power to manifest. The chapter posits that true humility involves acknowledging God as the source of all life, which links the act of creation with the ongoing experience of God’s sustaining power. Therefore, humility becomes not just a virtue but the very essence of a proper relationship with the Creator.

2. How does Murray link pride to sin and evil in his discussion, and what examples does he provide to illustrate this point?

Murray argues that pride is the root of all sin and evil, illustrating this by referencing the fall of angels and the first humans. He states that fallen angels' self-complacency led to their disobedience and subsequent downfall, mirroring humanity's plight when tempted by the serpent to aspire to be like God. Pride, according to Murray, acts as a gate to hell, whereas humility is the means of redemption. The examples of Lucifer and the Garden of Eden serve to highlight the destructive nature of pride, reinforcing the idea that humility must be restored for salvation and right standing with God.

3. Why does Murray assert that humility is the root of all virtues, and what implications does this have for a Christian's relationship with God?

Murray asserts that humility is the root of all virtues because it positions a person accurately in relation to God. It is through humility that individuals can recognize their total dependence on God and allow His grace to work through them. For Christians, embracing humility is essential; without it, they cannot fully experience God's presence, favor, love, or joy. Therefore, humility must inform a believer's entire existence and interactions, which is essential for experiencing the fullness of the Christian faith and for bearing spiritual fruit.

4. What does Murray say about the necessity of actively pursuing humility as a quality in a Christian's life?

Murray emphasizes that humility is not an automatic characteristic that develops without effort; it requires active pursuit through desire, prayer, faith, and practice. He notes that the Church has often overlooked humility’s significance in spiritual growth, leading to an absence of it in the lives of believers. Christians must consciously seek humility, studying the teachings and example of Jesus to cultivate this attribute. By acknowledging their struggles with pride and earnestly desiring humility, believers can invite God's transformative grace into their lives.

5. What connection does Murray make between the life of Jesus and the concept of humility, and how does this inform the Christian understanding of salvation?

Murray connects the life of Jesus with humility by stating that Jesus exemplifies perfect humility, both in His incarnation and His obedience unto death. He mentions that Christ’s humility is the basis of salvation, as it allows believers to partake in His life and death, transforming their relation to God. By following Jesus's example of humility, Christians can experience true redemption. In this way, Murray asserts that salvation is intrinsically tied to humility; it is about surrendering oneself to God’s will and allowing Christ's humble spirit to shape one’s character.

1. What is the significance of humility as portrayed in the life of Christ according to Andrew Murray?

Andrew Murray emphasizes that humility is the fundamental characteristic of Jesus Christ, which defines His entire life, from His incarnation as a servant to His obedience unto death. This humility is seen not merely as a trait but as the essence of Christ's nature and His atonement for humanity. The idea is that humility is the key to understanding both the divine nature of redemption and the mechanism through which believers can find their own redemption and spiritual growth. As Christ embodied humility, believers are called to reflect that humility in their own lives.

2. How does Murray connect the concept of pride to the need for redemption?

Murray argues that the original sin brought into the world through Adam and Eve can be traced back to pride—specifically, the pride instilled in Eve by the serpent. This pride led to the fall, corrupting humanity and necessitating redemption. He presents pride as the root of all kinds of evils and suffering in the world, indicating that every form of conflict, selfishness, and unhappiness stems from this 'hellish pride.' Therefore, understanding pride's pervasive influence is crucial for recognizing the necessity of Christ's redemptive work.

3. What does Murray mean by 'the root from which a tree springs,' and how does this metaphor apply to humanity's spiritual condition?

Murray uses the tree metaphor to illustrate that just as a tree cannot grow without roots, humanity cannot thrive spiritually without recognizing its foundation in Christ. This metaphor points to the idea that the root of humanity's existence and life must be aligned with Christ, who represents the humility that redeems. Murray stresses that understanding one's fallen nature, rooted in pride and self, is essential to grasping the transformative power of Christ's humility, which should be embraced to cultivate a new life that reflects the nature of the Second Adam, Jesus.

4. What does Murray suggest is necessary for believers to overcome pride and cultivate humility in their lives?

Murray suggests that believers need to earnestly seek and study the humility of Jesus as the central focus of their spiritual lives. He posits that humility must be pursued above all else, identifying it as the vital grace that leads to a strong spiritual life. The call to self-denial is emphasized as essential for discipleship; by yielding their prideful nature to Christ's humility, believers can experience true redemption and spiritual growth. Murray advocates for a genuine introspection to recognize one's lack of humility and to earnestly ask for the humility of Christ to transform both oneself and the community.

5. What are the implications of neglecting humility in the Christian life, based on Murray’s insights?

Murray warns that neglecting humility leads to a feeble and ineffective Christian life. He argues that many believers do not experience the joy of salvation because they overlook humility, which is indispensable to the essence of Christ's redemptive work. He asserts that pride remains an impediment to genuine faith and practice, suggesting that without a conscious effort to cultivate humility, Christians may fail to reflect Jesus' character and miss the transformative power of His salvation. This neglect ultimately hinders the believer's capacity to engage meaningfully with God and others, limiting the effectiveness of their witness and service in the world.

1. How does Andrew Murray define humility as witnessed in the life of Jesus?

Andrew Murray explains that humility, as showcased in the life of Jesus, is the complete self-surrender and subordination to God. He emphasizes that humility is not merely about humility in action but the internal posture of allowing God to be all in one's life. Jesus, both as the Son of God and as a man, exemplified this by saying that He could do nothing of Himself and by consistently referring to His dependence on the Father. He lived in recognition that His mission and actions were wholly contingent upon God's will.

2. What biblical references does Murray use to highlight Jesus' humility, and what do they signify?

Murray references several passages in the Gospel of John, including statements like "The Son can do nothing of Himself" (John 5:19) and "I seek not Mine own glory" (John 8:50), which illustrate Jesus' consciousness of His dependence on the Father. These verses signify that Jesus viewed Himself not as an independent actor but as one entirely committed to the Father's purpose, reinforcing the concept that true humility involves recognizing one's limitations and relying fully on God.

3. What does Murray suggest is the result of Jesus’ humility before God, and how does that impact His relationships with others?

Murray suggests that because Jesus humbled Himself before God, He was able to humble Himself before others as well, becoming 'the Servant of all.' This humility not only honored God but also established a connection of genuine service and love toward mankind. Through His self-abnegation, Jesus became a channel for God’s love and power to work, leading to a profound impact on His relationships with others.

4. According to Murray, what is the essence of true self-denial as taught by Jesus?

Murray articulates that true self-denial is recognizing that self has nothing good outside of being an empty vessel filled by God. It involves the acknowledgment that without God's work, one is incapable of achieving anything beneficial. This aligns with Jesus' teaching and example, where He calls His followers to relinquish their self-reliance and to submit fully to God's will, thereby allowing divine influence to guide their lives and actions.

5. What is the ultimate goal of understanding humility in the context of Jesus' life, according to Murray?

Murray asserts that the ultimate goal of understanding humility in the context of Jesus' life is to possess a deeper relationship with God and to experience His work through us. He believes that humility is the foundation of authentic Christian life and experience. The more one grasps this concept of humility, the more one will recognize its absence in their life, leading them to strive for this essential quality of Christ within them. This transformative humility grants access to a profound and blessed life in God's presence.

1. What does Jesus teach about humility at the beginning of His ministry according to the chapter?

At the commencement of His ministry in the Beatitudes, Jesus highlights humility by declaring, 'Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth.' This teaching indicates that humility is essential for entering the kingdom of heaven and receiving blessings both in this life and the afterlife. The poor in spirit—those who recognize their own spiritual poverty and limitations—open themselves to God's grace, while the meek—who seek nothing for themselves and demonstrate a gentle spirit—are promised inheritance on the earth.

2. How does Jesus exemplify meekness and humility in His call for His disciples to learn from Him?

Jesus invites His disciples to learn from Him by stating, 'Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly of heart.' He presents Himself as the ultimate Teacher who embodies humility and offers it as a source of rest for the soul. Through His character and teachings, He underscores that true humility and meekness are not just traits to admire but essential qualities to incorporate into one’s own life for spiritual rest and salvation. The process of learning humility from Jesus ultimately leads to profound peace and fulfillment for those who embrace it.

3. What message does Jesus convey regarding greatness and servanthood among His disciples?

Throughout His ministry, Jesus emphasizes that true greatness in the kingdom of heaven is achieved through humility and servanthood. He teaches that 'Whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant,' indicating that leadership is marked by a willingness to serve others. This countercultural teaching challenges the disciples' desire for status and power, shifting their focus onto selfless service. Jesus embodies this principle, demonstrating that the greatest in His kingdom are those who humble themselves as servants, aligning with His example of sacrificial love and service.

4. How does Jesus challenge the common notions of honor and exaltation in the context of humility?

Jesus repeatedly challenges the notion that self-exaltation leads to honor. He states, 'For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.' This paradox highlights that in God’s kingdom, true honor is linked with humility and self-abasement. He uses parables and teachings to reinforce that those who seek to elevate themselves will ultimately face humiliation, while those who willingly lower themselves in service will be honored by God. As Jesus washed His disciples’ feet and instructed them to do likewise, He illustrated the transformative power of humility and servanthood as the pathway to true honor.

5. What role does Jesus assign to humility in the believer's life and relationship with God, as presented in this chapter?

In this chapter, humility is portrayed as the cornerstone of the believer's relationship with God and others. Jesus teaches that humility is necessary for receiving God’s grace and blessings. The chapter stresses that the essence of discipleship is embracing humility, as it positions believers to be filled with God’s presence and power. By recognizing their need to serve one another and abasing themselves, believers align with the spirit of Christ, who exemplified perfect humility. The pursuit of humility becomes a vital aspect of spiritual growth and maturity, enabling believers to experience the fullness of life in Christ.

1. What examples does Andrew Murray provide of the disciples' lack of humility?

Murray highlights several key moments that demonstrate the disciples' struggle with humility. He cites instances where the apostles disputed about who among them should be considered the greatest (as recorded in the Gospels), the request made by the sons of Zebedee and their mother for positions of honor at Jesus' side, and ongoing contentions regarding their status at the Last Supper. These examples illustrate a habitual preoccupation with self-importance, contrasting sharply with Jesus’ teachings on humility.

2. According to Murray, what is the relationship between humility and effective Christian service?

Murray argues that while the disciples displayed fervent commitment and active faith in following Jesus, their lack of humility undermined their effectiveness as witnesses and leaders. He notes that earnest religion does not guarantee the presence of humility, as one can possess fervent attachment to Christ, yet still be devoid of the grace of humility, which is essential for truly reflecting Christ's character. This lack can hinder one’s ability to be a channel of God’s power and grace.

3. What does Murray suggest is necessary to overcome the natural pride inherent in humanity?

Murray emphasizes that overcoming pride requires more than external teachings or personal resolutions; it necessitates the indwelling of Christ. He posits that pride is part of humanity's sinful nature inherited from Adam, and therefore, true humility must also be a part of one’s nature, derived from Christ. This transformation occurs through the work of the Holy Spirit, who enables believers to exhibit divine humility rather than relying solely on their own strength.

4. What role did Pentecost play in changing the disciples, according to Murray?

Murray asserts that Pentecost marked a significant transformation in the lives of the disciples. It was at Pentecost that they received the Holy Spirit, which empowered them to embody the humility that Christ demonstrated. This indwelling of the Spirit not only fulfilled the preparatory teaching of Jesus but radically altered their nature, allowing them to live lives marked by humility and to carry out the Great Commission with the power of God, as reflected in their writings and actions thereafter.

5. What is Murray's call to action for readers in relation to humility?

Murray urges readers to recognize the crucial importance of humility within the Christian faith and to seek a deeper conviction of its significance. He challenges them to assess their own experiences, encouraging those who have struggled with humility to understand that their efforts are insufficient without reliance on Christ’s inner strength. Murray advocates for a humble reliance on Christ, suggesting that the beauty and effectiveness of the Church are contingent on its members embodying the humility of Jesus.

1. What is the main focus of Chapter 6 on 'Humility in Daily Life'?

Chapter 6 emphasizes that true humility towards God is only validated by one's humility towards other people in everyday interactions. It suggests that our love for God is demonstrated through our love and treatment of our fellow human beings. Murray argues that humility should not merely be a concept practiced in prayer and reflection, but must be integrated into our daily conduct and relationships.

2. How does Andrew Murray relate the humility of Christ to the behavior of Christians towards one another?

Murray highlights that the humility of Christ, demonstrated through actions such as serving others and washing the disciples' feet, serves as a model for Christians. He points out that humility should translate into how Christians honor and serve each other, putting others before themselves, and embodying qualities like compassion and kindness. This Christlike humility is seen as fundamental to maintaining unity and love within the Christian community.

3. What scriptural references does Murray use to illustrate humility, and what essence do these references convey?

Murray references several passages from Paul’s letters, which emphasize humility as crucial to the Christian life. For example, he cites instructions to 'prefer one another' and 'serve one another in love.' These references convey that humility is foundational to love and community, and that it involves actions that reflect an attitude of service and selflessness rather than seeking one's own elevation or recognition.

4. How does Murray suggest Christians can cultivate true humility in their lives?

Murray suggests that Christians cultivate true humility through surrendering self and allowing God to fill that space with His spirit. He insists that it's essential to see oneself as 'nothing' before God, which allows one to serve others without the comparison of self-worth. He encourages believers to recognize the value in every person, seeing them as children of God regardless of their attributes, and actively practice forbearance, kindness, and forgiveness as expressions of this humility.

5. What challenges does Murray identify regarding the practice of humility in the Church, and what is his ultimate message?

Murray identifies a significant challenge in the Church where individuals, despite being devoted to Christ, struggle to extend that selflessness to fellow believers. He mentions the lack of teaching and emphasis on the humility of Christ as a primary virtue. His ultimate message is one of encouragement; despite the challenges, Christians should strive to grow in humility, seeing opportunities for grace and improvement through interactions with others, and believing that reliance on God can enable a deeper expression of love and humility.

1. What is the central theme of Chapter 7 in Andrew Murray's book 'Humility'?

The central theme of Chapter 7 is the profound connection between humility and holiness. Murray posits that true holiness is marked by humility, asserting that the presence of God's holiness within a person manifests through their humility before both God and others. He cautions that a lack of humility is often a sign of counterfeit holiness and emphasizes that one must continually examine their hearts for pride, particularly within the context of seeking holiness.

2. How does Andrew Murray describe the relationship between humility and the character of Jesus?

Murray illustrates that Jesus, described as the 'Holy One of God', exemplifies humility, indicating that His humility was at the core of His life, death, and eventual exaltation. He asserts that the holiest individuals will invariably be the humblest, as true humility encompasses the recognition of God’s supremacy over the self. Murray highlights that humility is the essence of living a life aligned with the mind of Christ, which involves serving others and regarding oneself as less than others.

3. What warning does Murray provide concerning the attitude of those seeking holiness?

Murray warns that those who pursue holiness must be vigilant against the insidious nature of pride, especially pride disguised as holiness. He explains that individuals often harbor a subconscious sense of superiority regarding their spiritual state, which can foster complacency and arrogance. He highlights that humility should be a continuous study for individuals claiming to seek holiness, as an absence of deep self-abasement can indicate a lack of true spiritual growth and connection to God.

4. According to Murray, what characteristics hinder true humility within religious communities?

Murray identifies several behaviors that obstruct true humility within churches and religious communities, including touchiness, impatience, haste, judgmental attitudes, and unkind words. He points out that many religious assemblies have faced discord when individuals fail to regard others as better than themselves, suggesting that such attitudes disrupt harmony and work for God. He emphasizes the need for the meekness and gentleness of Christ to characterize interactions among believers.

5. What does Murray suggest is the ultimate purpose of true humility in relation to God and others?

Murray suggests that true humility allows individuals to live in constant awareness of God’s presence, leading them to be selfless and devoted to serving others. He indicates that in recognizing God's glory and becoming nothing before Him, a person is empowered to be humble towards fellow beings. This humility is not merely external but stems from an inner transformation through God's love and presence, enabling believers to cultivate a spirit that blesses others and reflects the character of Christ.

1. How does Andrew Murray define humility in relation to sin in this chapter?

Murray defines humility not merely as a response to sin or as an expression of penitence and contrition. Instead, he describes humility as the essence of holiness and blessedness, which arises from displacing self with the enthronement of God. He emphasizes that true humility originates from recognizing God's supreme position in the relationship between the Creator and the creature, where self is negated, and God is acknowledged as everything.

2. What role does the concept of grace play in understanding humility according to Murray?

Grace is central to Murray's understanding of humility. He argues that while acknowledging one's sinfulness is important, it is the experience of God's grace—specifically, grace that is suffused with the awareness of being a sinner—that truly cultivates a humble spirit. Murray presents that the greater one experiences God's grace, the more one understands their position as a sinner saved by grace, which deepens humility. He believes that grace reminds individuals of their past sins while simultaneously instilling a sense of joy in salvation, reinforcing a humble state.

3. In what way does Murray reference the Apostle Paul to illustrate his points about humility and sin?

Murray references the Apostle Paul as an exemplar of someone who possesses a profound consciousness of his past sins while simultaneously experiencing the grace of God. Paul identifies himself as the 'chief of sinners' and acknowledges his prior life of persecution against Christians. However, despite this humility, he does not frequently confess present sins in his letters, indicating a life empowered by the Holy Spirit. This juxtaposition shows that a reminder of his sinful past, combined with an ongoing dependence on grace, fuels a deeper humility rather than a focus on daily failings.

4. What does Murray suggest about the relationship between self-occupation and the cultivation of true humility?

Murray warns against self-occupation, even in the context of self-condemnation, as a barrier to achieving true humility. He suggests that being preoccupied with one's sin cannot liberate an individual from self. Instead, he posits that true humility emerges from a revelation of God—both through the law, which condemns sin, and through grace, which delivers from it. The outcome of focusing on God's holiness and grace is that it fosters humility as a natural response, alleviating self-focus and allowing individuals to exalt God.

5. How does Murray explain the distinction between self-condemnation and true humility?

Murray explains that many people may attempt to humble themselves through self-condemnation and strong expressions of self-denunciation, yet they find that a genuine humble spirit remains elusive. He argues that true humility is not generated by harsh self-criticism but by a deep understanding and experience of God’s love and grace. Such an understanding involves recognizing one's complete reliance on God rather than being mired in self-criticism. Murray believes that true humility becomes a 'second nature' for those filled with a sense of God’s presence, which displaces self-absorption.

1. What is the main thesis of Chapter 9 regarding the relationship between humility and faith?

Chapter 9 posits that humility is fundamentally connected to faith, asserting that pride inhibits the ability to truly believe. The author, Andrew Murray, emphasizes that faith is characterized by a recognition of one’s own nothingness and helplessness, which he describes as the essence of humility. He argues that as long as individuals are consumed by pride and seek glory from one another, they cannot genuinely seek or receive the glory that comes from God, thereby making true faith impossible.

2. How does Andrew Murray illustrate the concept that pride obstructs faith?

Murray illustrates the concept by using the metaphor of seeing blessings of the Christian life behind a pane of glass—Christians can see these blessings but feel obstructed in attaining them due to 'thick glass' that represents pride. He refers to John 5:44, which questions how one can believe when they seek glory from men instead of God. This analogy emphasizes that pride erects barriers between believers and the promises of God, while humility is what facilitates access to God’s blessings.

3. In what ways does Murray connect the humility of Jesus to the development of faith in believers?

Murray connects the humility of Jesus to believers' faith by discussing how Jesus demonstrated ultimate humility through His suffering and sacrificial death. He points out that true salvation and the blessings of faith involve participating in the humility of Christ. The author cites examples from the Bible, like the centurion and the persistent mother, who exhibited great faith paired with deep humility. Murray argues that embracing this humility is essential for believers to remove obstacles to faith, enabling them to trust God fully.

4. What practical steps does Murray recommend for believers who struggle with pride and seek to deepen their faith?

Murray recommends that believers focus on humbling themselves under God's mighty hand as the pathway to exaltation. He urges that rather than striving solely to believe, individuals should actively seek to eradicate pride from their lives and embrace humility. This includes accepting situations that humble them, recognizing their dependency on God, and seeking only His glory, which he states will result in a more profound experience of faith and greater divine blessings.

5. How does Murray address the potential objections regarding individuals who seem to have strong faith but lack humility?

Murray acknowledges that some individuals may have a measure of faith and may be used by God to bless others despite their lack of humility. However, he argues that their effectiveness is limited and often superficial, stemming from an absence of true humility. He suggests that while they may display certain gifts and bring some blessing, a deeper humility would unlock a fuller measure of faith and enable a more profound connection with the Holy Spirit, ultimately leading to a richer experience of God's power and love.

1. What is the central theme of Chapter 10 in Andrew Murray's "Humility" regarding humility and death to self?

The central theme of Chapter 10 is the intimate relationship between humility and death to self. Murray emphasizes that true humility leads one to die to self, which is essential for spiritual growth and an authentic relationship with God. He argues that humility is the root or blossom of which death to self is the perfect fruit, exemplified by Jesus Christ, who humbled Himself unto death as the ultimate act of obedience to God. This chapter underscores that the path of humility is necessary for experiencing the fullness of life in God.

2. How does Andrew Murray explain the role of Jesus in the context of humility and death?

Murray explains that Jesus, through His humility and obedience, demonstrated the way of dying to self. He points out that Jesus’ death was the highest proof of His surrender to God, showcasing that true humility involves complete submission to God's will, even to the point of death. Jesus not only opened the pathway for us to follow but also communicated His resurrection life to His disciples through the Holy Spirit, emphasizing that His life was birthed out of His death. For believers, being in union with Christ means participating in His death to sin and self, allowing the Spirit to empower them to live in humility.

3. According to Murray, what practical steps can believers take to cultivate humility in their lives?

Murray suggests that believers can cultivate humility by continually surrendering themselves before God, acknowledging their utter helplessness and impotence to change themselves. He encourages looking at humiliations or vexations from others as opportunities for grace that help foster humility. He implies that actively humbling oneself before fellow believers can aid in maintaining humility before God. This involves a conscious effort to accept every situation as a means to grow in humility and a dependence on God’s grace, reinforcing a commitment to spiritually die to self.

4. What distinctions does Murray make about the relationship between humility and the death to self?

Murray emphasizes that humility and death to self are fundamentally intertwined. He states that humility must lead to a perfect death to self, and in turn, this death to self leads to the perfection of humility. This relationship means that humility is the initiation, the bud, while the full fruit—the perfect expression of surrender and spiritual life—comes through death to self. He warns against the common misconception that one can achieve humility without fully yielding to the death of self, asserting that a true encounter with God's grace requires an authentic humbling of oneself.

5. What role does the Holy Spirit play in the believer's experience of humility and death to self, according to Murray?

Murray highlights that the Holy Spirit is crucial in manifesting the power of Christ's death in the believer's life. He explains that through the Holy Spirit, believers experience the transformation that allows them to truly die to self and embrace humility. It is suggested that the fullness of this experience depends on the measure to which the Holy Spirit imparts Christ's death-life into the believer. The Holy Spirit empowers believers not only to understand their death in Christ but also to live out humility characterized by lowliness and meekness, ultimately enabling them to grow in grace and reflect Christ's nature.

1. What does Paul learn about weakness and strength in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 according to Andrew Murray's interpretation?

Paul comes to understand that his weakness is not a hindrance, but rather a means through which the strength of Christ can be made manifest. Rather than merely enduring his weakness, Paul learns to take pleasure in it, recognizing that true strength from Christ is revealed when he is humble and acknowledges his own limitations. Andrew Murray emphasizes that Paul’s experience teaches us that humility and a willing acceptance of our weaknesses can lead to a deeper experience of God’s grace and power.

2. What are the two stages in the pursuit of humility that Andrew Murray describes?

According to Murray, the first stage involves a fear of humility where individuals seek deliverance from circumstances that humble them. They pray for humility but often wish to avoid trials that promote it. The second stage is marked by a transformation in how one perceives humility; they begin to 'glory in weakness' and truly desire humility, understanding it as a pathway to deeper relationship with Christ. At this stage, humiliation becomes a source of joy rather than a burden.

3. How does Andrew Murray relate the lesson of humility to the life of a believer today?

Murray relates the lesson of humility as essential for all believers pursuing holiness. He cautions that even those experiencing intense spiritual growth or fervent ministry can inadvertently fall into self-exaltation. He argues that true holiness is only achieved through deep humility, emphasizing that believers should actively embrace their weaknesses and view challenges as opportunities for spiritual growth. The grace of God is positioned as the essential support in overcoming pride and embracing humility.

4. What does Andrew Murray suggest about the connection between humility and happiness?

Murray suggests that true happiness is rooted in genuine humility. He asserts that as one learns to embrace their weaknesses and choose humility, they will discover a profound joy that comes from depending on Christ. This happiness is contrasted with self-exaltation, which ultimately leads to insecurity and dissatisfaction. By 'taking pleasure in weaknesses,' believers can truly experience the power of Christ within them, achieving a state of abiding gladness.

5. What role does the presence of Jesus play in the pursuit of humility according to the chapter?

The presence of Jesus is depicted as vital in the pursuit of humility. Murray argues that a deeper revelation of Jesus can expel self-centeredness, revealing the beauty of humility to the believer. He states that experiencing Jesus leads one to willingly accept humiliations, as they become increasingly aware that their worth is found in Him and not in themselves. It is through intimacy with Christ that believers can experience true humility and the joy associated with it.

1. What is the central theme of Chapter 12 from Andrew Murray's book 'Humility'?

The central theme of Chapter 12 is the relationship between humility and exaltation in the Christian life. Murray emphasizes that true exaltation comes from God as a consequence of humbling oneself. He discusses biblical passages such as Luke 14:11 and James 4:10, which illustrate that those who humble themselves before God will ultimately be elevated by Him. Murray argues that humility is foundational to the Christian ethics and is essential for receiving God's grace and blessings.

2. How does Andrew Murray suggest overcoming pride?

Andrew Murray suggests that overcoming pride involves two key actions: actively humbling oneself and trusting God to do the work of exaltation. He emphasizes that it is not the individual's responsibility to eradicate pride entirely, but rather to take opportunities to humble oneself before God and people. This practice is central to developing a humble disposition, which is rewarded by God with grace and eventual exaltation in due time.

3. What are the two stages of God's dealings with humanity outlined by Murray?

Murray describes two stages in God’s dealings with humanity: the preparation stage and the fulfillment stage. In the preparation stage, individuals experience commands, promises, and a mixture of efforts and failures, which train and discipline them for a higher spiritual life. The fulfillment stage occurs when faith realizes the promises and enjoys the fruits of what has been sought after. This pattern reflects God’s process of leading individuals toward humility and eventual exaltation.

4. What is the significance of humility in the context of prayer, according to Murray?

Murray asserts that humility is vital to true prayer life. He explains that until the heart is renewed and emptied of earthly desires, prayers can be insincere and lack genuine connection with God. He encourages individuals to adopt the humble attitude of the publican from the parable, recognizing their need for God's mercy. This humble state of heart sanctifies prayers, making them meaningful and impactful, and leading to a continual source of grace in one's spiritual life.

5. What does Murray mean when he states that true exaltation consists of being a vessel for God's glory?

Murray conveys that true exaltation is not about attaining material rewards or external recognitions, but about becoming a vessel that receives, enjoys, and showcases God's glory. He emphasizes that to achieve this exaltation, one must be willing to be nothing in themselves, allowing God to be everything. This perspective aligns with the Christian ideal of self-effacement and the complete indwelling of God in the humble heart, emphasizing that genuine exaltation arises from our submission and dependence on God's greatness.

1. What is the main focus of Chapter 13 in Andrew Murray's book "Humility"?

Chapter 13 centers around the importance and power of prayer in achieving humility. It emphasizes the necessity of withdrawing from worldly distractions and engaging in a focused and earnest prayer where one asks God to reveal and remove all forms of pride from their heart. Through this process, the individual seeks to cultivate true humility capable of receiving divine light and the Holy Spirit.

2. What specific practice does Andrew Murray suggest for cultivating humility?

Murray suggests a practical approach to cultivating humility by retiring from the world for one month. During this time, one should refrain from all forms of writing, reading, or debating, and engage solely in fervent prayer to God. He encourages praying consistently to ask God to take away all pride and to instill genuine humility within the individual. This practice is meant to create an environment for authentic spiritual growth and transformation.

3. How does Murray describe the relationship between pride and humility in this chapter?

Murray describes pride as a corrupting force stemming from both evil spirits and human nature that obstructs an individual’s relationship with God. He portrays humility as the antidote to pride—an essential quality that allows one to be open to God’s light and presence. The chapter implies that sincere prayer and a deep yearning for humility can combat the influence of pride, leading to spiritual healing and closeness to God.

4. What metaphor does Murray use to illustrate the earnestness of prayer for humility?

Murray employs the metaphor of a person in torment to illustrate the depth of earnestness one should bring to the prayer for humility. He compares the intensity of longing for humility to the desperate prayer of someone seeking deliverance from great suffering. This metaphor underscores the idea that true humility requires a devoted and serious approach to prayer, as it is a matter of profound spiritual significance.

5. What does the author claim will happen if one genuinely dedicates themselves to the prayer for humility?

Murray claims that if an individual genuinely dedicates themselves to this prayer for humility, they will experience transformative effects, including the potential expulsion of all evil spirits, akin to the deliverance of Mary Magdalene. He assures that through earnest prayer, the individual will be cleansed of pride and will be filled with love and devotion towards Jesus, suggesting a deep inner change and restoration of the soul.