The Secrets of Rising from the Messiah | Jonathan Cahn Sermon
The Secret to Rising Higher: A Christian Perspective on True Humility
In a world that prizes status and recognition, it’s easy to get caught up in the quest for greater position, more honor, and the acknowledgment of others. Yet, the teachings of Jesus Christ the Messiah turn this worldly value system upside down. True elevation in God’s kingdom doesn’t happen through self-promotion, but through a deliberate, cheerful embrace of humility. Let’s explore the transformative wisdom behind choosing the “lower seat” and uncover the blessings that flow from living according to the way of Christ.
What True Humility Looks Like
It’s a common misunderstanding: humility equals weakness, or being a doormat. That’s not what biblical humility is. The difference between forced humility and chosen humility is at the very heart of Jesus’ parable in Luke 14. When you’re driven by pride and seek the seat of honor, you risk being brought low and embarrassed if you’re asked to move for someone of greater distinction. But the truly humble choose the lower place, not out of fear or intimidation, but by their own free will. In turn, they are honored in front of others not by self-promotion, but through gracious elevation by another.
Jesus observed His own culture the religious leaders and even the social customs of His day were centered on being first, sitting at the place of honor, and being above others. This tendency isn’t unique to the ancient world; it’s deeply embedded in the fabric of human and even animal nature, where “alpha” positions mean power and respect. Everywhere from politics to entertainment, society rewards the relentless climb upwards, sometimes at the expense of others. But Jesus presents a radical alternative.
The Upside-Down Kingdom: Exalting the Humble
At the very core of creation’s fall is the desire to ascend, to grasp for what is not rightfully ours. Satan, once an angel, was the first to seek the highest seat, declaring, “I will ascend… I will make myself like the Most High.” His pride led to his downfall. Likewise, Adam and Eve were tempted with the promise, “You shall be as God,” and instead of rising, humanity fell. Throughout Scripture, history is littered with those Pharaoh, Haman, Nebuchadnezzar, Julius Caesar, Napoleon, Caligula who lifted themselves up only to end in humiliation. This is a spiritual law: “Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled; whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.”
Even today, the spirit of self-centeredness pervades our culture. There’s a focus on self-promotion and self-fulfillment, including within segments of Christian preaching that can presuppose blessing is all about personal gain. Jesus, however, didn’t live to be served He came to serve, to give, to descend, to embrace the lowest and most humble state for the sake of love.
How the Messiah Reverses the Rhythm
Jesus didn’t need to climb the ladder. He didn’t fight for the seat of honor; He already held the highest position as the Son of God. But by lowering Himself even to death on a cross He changed the direction of blessing. As Paul writes, “Though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9). The “flow of Messiah” is not about getting, but about giving not about taking the higher seat, but about joyfully owning the lower one, so that God Himself might lift you up.
The paradox is beautiful: the secret to joy, freedom, and transformative power is found when you let go of the hunger for status. “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth,” Jesus taught. God honors those who humble themselves in His presence the very ones society often overlooks.
Breaking Free From Self: Living to Give, Not to Take
Many of the burdens and frustrations of life come when we live with self as the focus constantly measuring what we lack, who didn’t thank us, who seemed to get more than we did, who hurt or offended us. Living this way is a never-ending struggle to “take” from the world, resulting in envy, offense, and a never-satisfied spirit. But in Christ, we’re called to a different rhythm to live a life of love, to “walk in love” as Ephesians charges us, to serve rather than be served.
When you live to give, you’re liberated. If your life is a gift to God, then you’re no longer threatened when others don’t recognize you, and you’re not desperate to protect your reputation or position. No one can take from you what you’ve freely given. This deep inner freedom is only possible through Christ’s love a love that enables you to go lower because you know your worth is already secure in God. “Learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls,” Jesus promises. Real humility isn’t preoccupied with self, but is preoccupied with God.
The Power of Choosing the Lower Seat
Jesus commanded His followers: if you want to be truly great, become the servant of all. This isn’t a refutation of ambition; it’s a redefinition of greatness. God does not want you intimidated by anyone or anything the spirit He gives is one of power and bold love, not fear or self-hatred. True humility flows from a position of strength: you willingly take a low position, not because you feel worthless, but because you know that in Christ, you possess everything that truly matters. It’s not about denying your God-given gifts or shrinking back into insecurity. It’s about using your place of blessing to bless and lift others up.
When you stop searching for approval from people, you grant God the opportunity to lift you to places of honor. Whether you’re overlooked, mistreated, or made to feel small, you can rejoice because the praise
