Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 4
St. Francis’s line—“For what a man is in the sight of God, so much he is and no more”—puts God’s evaluation over human reputation; what practices in your life most tempt you to live as though man’s esteem is the real scoreboard (and how would humility re-order that)?
Another way to ask: What parts of your life tempt you to care more about people’s approval than God’s view of you? How would humility change what you chase after?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
The transcript suggests the “scoreboard” temptation is living for recognition—wanting to be esteemed, noticed, or ranked highly—whether in school, society, nation, or church. Humility re-orders this by rejecting “human glory” and learning to value what God values, even if people don’t.
- St. Francis: “For what a man is in the sight of God, so much he is and no more.”
- The speaker connects this to martyrs/Anabaptists: they were viewed as “worthless… despicable,” yet had “value” before God.
- He confesses enjoying recognition: he worked hard and “was always very pleased to find my name in the honor roll,” even published in the newspaper.
- He lists everyday pride: pride in “family… hometown… the state… the country,” plus propaganda like Superman’s “the American way” and the Pledge of Allegiance.
- He critiques church pride: “one true church,” “most biblical,” “forefront of God’s kingdom.”
- William Law: “Hate despise all human glory… the greatest snare,” and “rejoice in… the good actions” of others.