Built For Greatness
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In a rapidly changing and increasingly divided world, the need for a renewed focus on faith, truth, and unity has never been greater. The BFG Podcast offers a compelling and transformative path for those who feel called to participate in the New Evangelization, a mission to spread the Gospel with a new ardor, expression, and method.
Our commitment is to restore the truth, not just as a historical or doctrinal concept, but as a living and active force that shapes how we live, serve, and interact with others. The BFG Handbook we offer at www.builtforgreatness.com presents the Gospel in a fresh way, making it relevant to today’s challenges while staying true to the eternal truths of Christ. This is not a new gospel but a renewed and vibrant expression of the Good News that invites all to encounter Jesus in profound and meaningful ways.
Built For Greatness
Humility: BFG Handbook Chapter 39 (Foundation of Faith)
Drowning in information but thirsty for meaning? Our deep dive into Chapter 39 of the Christian Tao Te Ching offers a crystal-clear alternative to spiritual overwhelm.
This chapter introduces a revolutionary perspective on humility as the cornerstone of authentic greatness. Beginning with the powerful declaration that "the heavens and earth attained oneness," the text establishes divine connection as the wellspring of everything good in creation. Like a master architect explaining the laws of spiritual physics, it reveals how "the high is built upon the foundation of the low" – teaching that true honor flows naturally from genuine humility.
Through vivid contrasts between "sparkling jade" and "common rocks," the chapter challenges our cultural obsession with appearances and status symbols. Jesus' critique of the Pharisees comes alive in fresh language, reminding us that authentic spirituality values substance over show. The innovative Trinitarian MAP framework (Mindset, Aim, Practice) transforms abstract principles into practical wisdom for daily living, offering guidance for embracing oneness, practicing humility, choosing simplicity, seeking divine approval, and cultivating stillness.
What makes this teaching particularly relevant today is its recognition that these spiritual truths transcend religious boundaries. By highlighting parallels across Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Judaism, the chapter builds bridges of understanding in our divided world. Whether you're seeking deeper spiritual connection, more authentic leadership principles, or simply a meaningful alternative to materialism, these ancient yet surprisingly fresh insights offer a path forward that begins with the counterintuitive wisdom that greatness flows from humility.
Ready to transform information overload into focused wisdom? Join us in exploring how humility might be the unexpected foundation for everything you're truly seeking.
ever get that feeling Drowning in information, trying to find the stuff that really matters.
Speaker 2:Oh yeah, information overload for sure.
Speaker 1:And that's why we do these deep dives. It's like let's take one thing, we zero in right. What are the key ideas and how can we actually use them? No overwhelm. Today we're diving into chapter 39, humility Built for God. Bfg Movement. Christian Edition of the Tao Te Ching.
Speaker 2:And this chapter is really interesting because right off the bat they say look, this is a fresh way to express the gospel. It's like they're saying we're going to restore the truth. They're taking those familiar concepts and kind of twisting them a little, giving them a new spin.
Speaker 1:It's a fresh perspective for sure. So for this deep dive, we're really going to unpack how this chapter use humility. How does it connect to greatness, Deeper sense of well, spirituality. They start with this really powerful statement In the beginning, the heavens and earth attained oneness. Why is that opening so important?
Speaker 2:Okay. So what they're doing is saying that this oneness, which is all about God, is the source of everything good in creation. It's like God. It's the source of everything good in creation. Imagine the roots of a tree right, one root system feeding the whole thing. So they say this oneness it's where we get clarity in the sky, the stillness of the earth, even the divinity of the spirit, think about it. The abundance of the valley, life itself, even ruler's authority.
Speaker 1:Everything's in harmony because it all comes from this oneness in God. And then boom, they flip it right yeah. What happens when you don't have this oneness? Hailstorms, earthquakes, you know it's like the spirit vanishes, valleys are barren, total opposite. You've talked about extinction and like leaders failing all because of this lack of oneness.
Speaker 2:Exactly. They're using these like almost apocalyptic examples to show just how essential this divine oneness is for everything, for life, for order, and they're not just making this up. These ideas connect to so many foundational Christian texts.
Speaker 1:Oh, for sure.
Speaker 2:Like Exodus, psalms, genesis, ecclesiastes, even. They all speak to God's role as creator and also the sustainer of everything, Like remember Genesis 1.31,. God sees creation and says it's very good. That's that initial oneness, that harmony.
Speaker 1:So anything good, anything that lasts, it all comes from this unity found in God. It's like the ultimate foundation. But then they make this big statement humility is the root of honor. How do they back that up?
Speaker 2:So they use this analogy. They say the high is built upon the foundation of the low. Like, think about it structurally. Anything truly great, anything worthy of honor, needs a solid base of humility. And for leaders, they say leaders call themselves alone and unworthy. Not like putting themselves down, but recognizing that their position comes from something bigger. They need to stay humble and low. It's like, you know, a skyscraper the taller it is, the deeper the foundation has to be.
Speaker 1:It's totally the opposite of how we usually think of leadership. Right, it's all about project strength, confidence, sometimes even you know, a bit of arrogance, but here they're saying no, no, no. True honor comes from knowing your limits and that you need something beyond yourself.
Speaker 2:And then they add seeking praise does not win true praise. What's that about? It's all about your motivation, right? If you're doing good things just to get applause, any praise will feel empty. According to them, true honor just happens. It comes from being genuinely humble, from focusing on serving others, not yourself, Like they reference Luke 14.10.0.11. Jesus says take the lowest seat at the table, then you'll be honored. Humility comes first, then recognition.
Speaker 1:Makes sense. So we have. Oneness is the source, humility is the root of honor. Then they talk about simplicity. Do not adorn yourself with sparkling jade, but be common and dull as the rocks. What's the message there? They're pushing for authenticity. You know inner substance over outward appearances, that sparkling jade, it's all the flashy world. This chapter even links it to Jesus and his criticism of the Pharisees right.
Speaker 2:Jesus really went after those religious leaders who were all about outward appearances, fancy clothes, wanting to be seen, all about rituals, but their hearts weren't right. This idea of sparkling jade versus common rocks totally matches Jesus saying inner transformation matters more. It's about your heart, not putting on a show so we've got oneness, humility, simplicity.
Speaker 1:Now they introduced this framework for renewal, which they call the trinitarian method or map mindset, aim and practice. So let's start with the first mindset, they say, is to embrace the oneness of creation. How does this relate to the oneness we talked about earlier?
Speaker 2:it's like taking that idea of oneness and really making it your own. You have to see how everything's connected you, other people, nature, it's all one under God's will. You have to see the world through that lens and act accordingly. Respect everything, Be connected. The real world application is to make choices reflecting that view. Your actions have an impact, Be kind, Be empathetic. And the scriptures they give Romans 11.36, John 17.21,. They both talk about God being the source holding everything together and Jesus wanting his followers to be unified.
Speaker 1:The next mindset is humility as the foundation of true greatness. We talked about humility, but how does this change our perspective?
Speaker 2:Okay. So this one is about redefining what greatness actually means. Not power or status, but humility. That honesty about meeting God, meeting others. That's the foundation. It's about servant leadership. Strength comes from serving, so the real world application is to lead by serving. Put others first. They reference Matthew 23.112 and Philippians 2.3-4. Both really push for humility and service in a spiritual context.
Speaker 1:Then there's simplicity over materialism. This seems deeper than just, you know, not wanting fancy stuff. It's a shift in values.
Speaker 2:For sure. It's saying spiritual wealth matters more your relationship with God, with people. Those come first, not stuff. Chasing things just distracts you from what's important. So declutter your life, spend less. Invest your time in relationships, experiences, not things. They give Matthew 6.1921 and 1 Timothy 6.608. Both warn against focusing on earthly treasures. They highlight contentment and godliness.
Speaker 1:The fourth mindset is seek divine approval, not human praise. So many people struggle with that.
Speaker 2:It's a constant back and forth right.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:This mindset says focus on pleasing God, not on getting applause from others. Wanting praise can lead you down the wrong path. The real world application is to be kind, serve others. Don't expect anything back. Ask yourself are my actions what God wants? The scriptures Matthew 6.1 and Galatians 1.6,. They warn against showing off your righteousness and say to seek God's favor above all else.
Speaker 1:The final mindset the importance of stillness and reflection, finding quiet in today's world. It's almost radical.
Speaker 2:Almost, but they're saying inner quiet, solitude. That's how you connect with the divine. In stillness you hear God's voice, get clarity. It brings spiritual stability. So set aside time for prayer, meditation, Just be quiet. Psalm 46.10, Mark 1.35,. Both talk about the power of being still. Even Jesus went to solitary places to pray.
Speaker 1:Okay, that's the mindset part of MAP. Now for aim. How is having an aim different from a mindset?
Speaker 2:Well. Mindset is how you see things. Aim is where you want to go with it. What's your purpose? The first aim is oneness in God, living in unity with God in everything, striving for harmony in the world, recognizing God's role in it all. The real world application is to align your actions with God's will Promote unity. Be a good steward of the earth. Colossians 1.617, john 17.21. They're about God as the creator and Jesus praying for his followers to be one.
Speaker 1:Next is humility before honor. It's like taking that humility mindset and putting it into action.
Speaker 2:Right. Prioritize humility. Be a servant leader. Don't be selfish. Serve others out of love. Recognize our shared humanity Like. Think about the example of Jesus, the real world application. Put others' needs first, Serve without wanting a reward. They're all about humility and service.
Speaker 1:Simplicity over worldly desire is the next aim. It's not just thinking it's good, it's aiming to live it.
Speaker 2:Absolutely. Make conscious choices. Focus on faith, love, service, not on materialism or wanting approval. Be content with what you have. Prioritize relationships, spiritual growth, not more stuff. They warn against wanting earthly treasures and against greed.
Speaker 1:Seeking true praise is the fourth aim. So intentionally working to please God, not getting caught up in what people think.
Speaker 2:Exactly. Let God's will, his character, be your guide, not what other people say, which always changes the real world. Application. Check your motivations. Do good because it honors God, not yourself. Matthew 6.1. Emphasize being sincere in your faith, putting God first.
Speaker 1:And, lastly, the importance of stillness and divinity, making that connection with the divine a priority.
Speaker 2:Time for stillness in your heart, your mind, so you can hear God's voice, align your life with his purpose, the real world application. Have regular time for prayer, meditation, quiet contemplation. John 15.4. They talk about being still before God and staying connected to him. He's the source of our strength.
Speaker 1:So we've got mindset and aim. Now the final part of MAP practice. How does this build on the mindsets and aims?
Speaker 2:Okay. So practice is where it gets real. You're putting those mindsets and aims into action consistently. The first practice is oneness with God and creation. Acknowledge God's presence in everything, from nature's beauty to your interactions with people. Live according to God's will. Reflect His love, compassion, justice.
Speaker 1:The scriptures they give Colossians 1.1617, romans 11.36, they remind us God is the creator and everything's connected through Him. Then there's humility and leadership in daily life, putting humility into practice in everything you do.
Speaker 2:Right. Serve others, see their needs, their perspectives. Recognize that you depend on God. It doesn't matter if you're a leader or just living your life, the real world application. Listen to others, be willing to serve, Don't chase power or recognition. Philippians 2.34, Matthew 23. They're all about putting others first, being a servant.
Speaker 1:We also have simplicity in living as a practice, not just thinking about it, actually doing it day after day.
Speaker 2:Yeah, make choices to value spiritual and relational wealth over stuff. Be content, focus on what matters eternally your relationship with God, with others, the real world, application. Let go of wanting things. Invest your time in what feeds your soul and relationships, storing up heavenly treasures and being content.
Speaker 1:Seeking true praise from God is the next practice Making sure your actions honor God.
Speaker 2:Always check your motivations. Why are you doing what you're doing or to get approval? The real world application Live authentically with integrity. God is watching.
Speaker 1:And, finally, cultivating stillness and divinity, making that quiet time with God a regular part of your life.
Speaker 2:Exactly Set aside time for prayer, meditation, silence. Strengthen your connection to him, the real world application. Use that stillness to get clarity, guidance, a sense of purpose, being still before God and staying connected to him. He's the source of our spiritual life.
Speaker 1:So that's the MAP framework, mindset, aim, practice, all based on oneness, humility and simplicity. Then the chapter ends with respond, connecting with shared truths across different spiritual traditions. What's the idea there?
Speaker 2:Respond takes the principles we've discussed oneness, humility, simplicity, seeking divine approval and stillness and it says these aren't just for one faith, they're universal. So for each principle they show similar teachings from different religions Christianity, hinduism, buddhism, islam, judaism. They even give quotes from the scriptures. It's like they're showing that wisdom and ethics they're found everywhere.
Speaker 1:Like when they talk about sacred unity of all creation. They give verses from Romans Genesis, but then they also talk about Brahman and Hinduism, interdependence in Buddhism and verses from the Koran and the Torah. Why?
Speaker 2:do they do that? The section specifically says how this unites us. The belief in a divine origin, even if it's expressed differently, makes us all see creation as sacred. It creates unity. The real world application is to live out that understanding. Respect all life, be responsible for the planet, see ourselves as part of something bigger.
Speaker 1:They do the same for all five principles right With humility. They give verses from Matthew, proverbs, but also teachings from the Bhagavad Gita, the Dhammapada, the Quran and Proverbs again.
Speaker 2:Yep. Every principle. First, the idea from chapter 39. Then similar teachings from other faiths, an explanation of how it unites us, real world application and the specific scriptures they use. So with humility, they show that many traditions see it as the path to wisdom and spiritual growth and selfless service. That's a common way to express it.
Speaker 1:For simplicity. They put Jesus's words about not storing up treasures next to ideas of detachment in Hinduism, contentment in Buddhism, giving to charity in Islam and warnings about wealth in Judaism.
Speaker 2:The common thread there is that it's better to focus on spiritual values, be content, be grateful, rather than wanting more and more stuff. The real world application is often to live minimally, to find inner peace.
Speaker 1:With seeking divine approval. They compare Jesus' teachings to the Hindu idea of acting without wanting results. The Buddhists focus on good deeds being valuable in themselves, the Islamic principle of being sincere in worship and the Jewish call to honor God through our actions.
Speaker 2:It's all about having the right motivation, Focusing on your connection to the divine, not on getting recognition. The application is to do good because it honors God, not for your own benefit.
Speaker 1:And, lastly, for stillness. They connect Psalm 46.0 with meditation in Hinduism and Buddhism, the Islamic emphasis on remembering Allah and the Jewish tradition of Shabbat, a time for rest and reflection.
Speaker 2:Many traditions see stillness contemplation as ways to connect with the divine, to get deeper spiritual insights. So the application is to make time for quiet reflection, to meditate.
Speaker 1:So respond shows that these values aren't just for one religion. They're part of a human search for meaning, for ethical living.
Speaker 2:Exactly. The chapter ends by saying recognizing these shared principles helps us grow spiritually. It brings people of different faiths together, and that can lead to a more peaceful world.
Speaker 1:So this deep dive into chapter 39, this Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching, really puts humility front and center. It comes from the oneness of God and it's the basis for true greatness. The chapter encourages us to live simply to want God's approval, not praise, and to find that stillness that connects us spiritually.
Speaker 2:And what's really interesting is how they connect these ideas to other faiths. It makes you think maybe these values are universal, found in different spiritual paths.
Speaker 1:What does that tell us about? What makes a meaningful life, no matter your background or beliefs? The human search for purpose and connection, something to keep thinking about.