Author Nick Thompson recognizes that pride is our worst enemy. If pride is our chief foe, then humility is our chief friend, even though its company may be painful. But spiritual growth is a descent—we must grow downward. Defining humility as “the downward disposition of a Godward self-perception,” Thompson walks us through the practical implications of this definition, leading us to embrace a God-centered perspective on the self. With winsome illustration and warm pastoral instruction, Growing Downward shows us that the path of humility, though difficult, is the way to true meaning and fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

Table of Contents:

Preface

Introduction: Toward a Definition of Humility

Part One: Existential Humility

1. 
   

   Dependent Creatures

   
   


2. 
   

   Covenantal Creatures

   
   


3. 
   

   Temporal Creatures

   
   

Part Two: Ethical Humility

4. 
   

   Fallen Sinners

   
   


5. 
   

   Delusional Sinners

   
   


6. 
   

   Hopeless Sinners

   
   

Part Three: Evangelical Humility

7. 
   

   Represented Believers

   
   


8. 
   

   Foreloved Believers

   
   


9. 
   

   Adopted Believers

   
   

Part Four: Ecclesiological Humility

10. 
    

    Devoted Members

    
    


11. 
    

    Imperfect Members

    
    


12. 
    

    Missional Members

    
    

Part Five: Eschatological Humility

13. 
    

    Grave-bound Mortals

    
    


14. 
    

    Judgment-bound Mortals

    
    


15. 
    

    Eternity-bound Mortals