An Anecdote for “Selfish Ambition”

Ambition is often the catalyst for success in today’s world. The pursuit of power, glory, or a specific cause fuels a person to invest their time and energy into a singular goal. But is “ambition” an appropriate tool for Christians seeking to advance God’s kingdom? The answer depends entirely upon what drives that ambition.

Whenever a person exercises ambition to further themselves or their own viewpoint, an organization suffers. When this occurs within the church, the results can be disastrous. In his inspired letter to the church in Philippi, the Apostle Paul wrote:

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”  (Philippians 2:3-4)

The original Greek phrase for “selfish ambition” can be translated to describe a person who pursues political office through unfair means. It means that they will go to great lengths, even if it creates strife, to get what they want. The phrase “vain conceit” describes a person with excessive pride.

It is true that in the short term, a person may gain political advantage in the church through “selfish ambition,” but danger lurks whenever the advancement of a personal viewpoint takes precedent over seeking God’s wisdom or advancing his kingdom.

A true mark of an authentic faith is humility. A believer in Christ who exhibits humility have already discovered the futility of seeking personal gain or purely earthly pursuits. Humility is like putting on a new prescription for glasses; it provides a clearer focus on what is truly important. This “vision correction” comes from a renewed life in Christ-one that is quick to confess sins and eager to receive his forgiveness. Christ’s sacrificial life in us produces the fruit of gentleness that seeks to serve others rather than ourselves. 

When the spirit of humility exists alongside a unity of belief exists within a congregation, individual gifts, talents and opinions are embraced for the benefit of the whole. In such a community, no member is looked down upon; instead, each is looked up to with genuine appreciation.

We can pray:
“Lord, thank you for prompting us to seek to serve others and the interest of your kingdom instead of our own. In this season of rapid change, may we always cling to what is imperishable in your Word and sacrament and let go of what is perishable. Provide within us a spirit of humility that focuses primarily on advancing the church instead of preserving the church according to our own tastes and preferences. May we voice our opinions with love and respect, then readily embrace change if change is needed. Grant us a strong faith and trust in you as the ultimate preserver of your church. When humility reigns in the heart of a church, there is harmony. In your name, we trust. Amen.”