Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 4
Kevin’s “modern illusion” was that we’ve advanced beyond the early believers, calling it “hubris and pride disguised as wisdom”; what are concrete examples of “pride disguised as wisdom” in theological education, preaching, or social-media Christianity, and what kind of humility would it take to reverse course?
Another way to ask: What are some real examples of “pride pretending to be wisdom” in Bible schools, preaching, or social media? What kind of humility would it take to admit we’re wrong and change direction?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
Kevin’s point is that “progress” language can mask pride—assuming modern Christians understand faith better than those closest to the apostles. Humility, in his framing, means admitting drift, refusing to “outgrow our roots,” and returning to the ancient foundation rather than treating it as inferior.
- Kevin: “Many today believe we’ve advanced beyond the early believers…This isn’t progress. It’s hubris and pride disguised as wisdom.”
- He contrasts this with Scripture’s call “not to outgrow our roots, but to abide in them.”
- He says the faith handed down was “complete, authoritative, and final,” not “waiting for modern improvement.”
- He calls for humility explicitly: “Renewal begins with humility…humble enough to admit where we’ve drifted, courageous enough to return.”
- Max critiques the flood of modern voices saying, “It means this…It means that,” and praises early Christian “unity…simple, straightforward” understanding.