John Alexander Devine was an amazing man of God. His ministry was blessed with multiplied thousands of souls brought to Christ. He saw miraculous healings. His ministry strongly influenced others who became well known and successful, for example: John G. Lake, F.F. Bosworth, and Gordon Lindsay.
He built Zion, Illinois. Then he got lifted up in pride and began to believe his own press clippings, and he did not finish well. The Bible gives us an even better example of the destructive nature of pride. Lucifer was a mighty angel. He was created by God and ministered in worship as a leader of a heavenly host of angels. The Bible speaks of his beauty. Then he became lifted up in pride and began to covet the very Throne of God. He said in his heart, “I will be like the most High.” (Isaiah 14:14) His pride led to rebellion and he was kicked out of heaven.
He became known as satan, and brought his rebellion, deception, and hostility to earth to defile God’s earthly creation. Jesus said, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.” (Luke 10:18) Prosperity is a greater test than adversity. Many people have humbly bowed before God, been blessed, and lifted up in pride, have forgotten that it was God who blessed them. That person’s fall is certain.
Pride coms in many forms:
Pride of Face – I am really somebody!
Pride of Race – May show itself as Black Power or White Supremacy.
Pride of Grace – I am so proud I am a _______ (fill in the denomination)
When people tell me they are so proud to be a certain denomination, my answer, “God will forgive you if you repent!”
A young lady was giving out tracts and witnessing for Christ on the street. She asked a man, “Sir, are you a Christian?” he seemed insulted. He said, “Young lady, I will have you know I am a Bishop!” Her reply was a classic, “That is all right, God saves the vilest!”
I challenge you to search through the Bible – run every reference on pride. You will find that in the eyes of God it is not good. “Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18)
J.T. Parish is the Founding Pastor of Christian Fellowship Church. He further serves on the Church Leadership Council, as Chairman of the Board of World Missions and Evangelism, and as President of the School of Ministry.