If the summation of the gospel is to love God with all our hearts and our neighbor as ourselves, then the essence of how we fulfill that commandment is found in clothing ourselves in an attitude of humility. First we walk humbly with God; then we practice humility toward our fellow human beings. Becoming a humble person is God's will for every believer, but it is every individual's choice. If we do not choose to walk humbly but instead choose to exalt ourselves, God will humble us in a way that we would never have chosen. This character quality is so dear to God's heart that it is the key to walking closely with Him and finishing life well.
Charles Peter Wagner (August 15, 1930 – October 21, 2016) was a theologian, missiologist, missionary, writer, teacher, and church growth specialist best known for his highly controversial writings on spiritual warfare.
Wagner served as a missionary in Bolivia under the South American Mission and Andes Evangelical Mission (now SIM International) from 1956 to 1971. He then served for 30 years (1971 to 2001) as Professor of Church Growth at the Fuller Theological Seminary's School of World Missions until his retirement in 2001. He is the author of more than 70 books. He was the president of Global Harvest Ministries from 1993 to 2011 and served as the chancellor emeritus of Wagner Leadership Institute, which trains leaders to join in a movement known as the New Apostolic Reformation, an organization Wagner also helped found. He was also the vice president of Global Spheres, Inc.
Humility is the “Queen of Virtues” but it’s not very often talked about. People are weird about the whole idea, as if by discussing humility, a person loses their ability to be humble. Anyway, last year I brushed up against the concept of humility as the “queen of virtue” a couple times, so I decided to dig deeper into the whole idea. This book was helpful! I can’t say every chapter was worth reading, but the ones that were made the whole book worth reading.
Revealed hidden pride in myself. Caused me to examine my position and opinions on matters and how I posture as a Christian. Especially the chapters on adversity. Implementing the truths revealed in this book will cause growth and improvement in relationships.
Great book which helps frame pride, to include diagnosing many symptoms and roots. Loved the journal questions, which could stimulate conversation and probe.
Definitely encouraged to pick up Andrew Murray’s book, which this pointed to frequently.
Mr. Wagner, thank you for this book. It laid out great points and detailed things to be on the look out for. I can certainly see myself reading this regularly to keep my humility in check.