Knowledge and Humility
ICS Daily Devotions
Luke 2:46-47, 49 (NKJV) Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions.And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers…, And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?”
1 Corinthians 8:1-3 (NKJV) Now concerning things offered to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies. And if anyone thinks that he knows anything, he knows nothing yet as he ought to know. But if anyone loves God, this one is known by Him.
Knowledge can make us arrogant. It fosters pride and an attitude of superiority. While Jesus is superior because He is God, He demonstrated what humility truly looks like.
The notable feature of these two passages is the difference in attitude. Jesus knew the Torah thoroughly, yet He was humble in His attitude toward the teachers by listening to them and asking questions. Jesus didn’t have an attitude of “I know it all” or “I am here to give you a lecture”, though He had every right to. In contrast, in the Corinthian church, there were differences in teaching and opinions because they believed they knew everything. One side believed it was permissible to eat food offered to idols, and it wouldn’t affect their relationship with God, but they failed to realise it might stumble new believers. Doesn’t that sound familiar? Many churches split because of theological differences. Each person arrives armed with their theological thesis to refute the other person’s position. Sometimes, we have an attitude of “I am here to check you out”, especially concerning preachers and teachers of the Word or those with some form of training in the Word. In fact, many preachers and teachers say that as they grow older, they become humbler because they realise they don’t know everything.
Likewise, we should maintain a humble attitude toward people in the marketplace, regardless of our expertise. Power, position, and authority make us proud. Pride can be a big stumbling block to Christians and non-Christians alike, affecting how we carry ourselves, talk, and treat others.
Ultimately, it is not how much we know, though knowledge is essential, but how much we live out the truth in our lives. Love edifies, meaning it will spur the other person to delve deeper into the Word of God, even though they might hold a very different perspective. Love will also ensure that the practice of the truth in my life will not cause a weaker brother or sister to stumble. Love builds others up.
Jesus is God, omniscient and omnipotent even as a man. Yet He chose to sit among the teachers, listen to them, and ask questions, just like any 12-year-old Jewish boy, demonstrating humility. Jesus did not demand respect because He is the Son of God. Instead, His humility earned the teachers’ respect because they were impressed with His understanding and answers.
Sermon Series: Christmas 2025
