THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
When the war council convened, differing opinions arose regarding the wisdom of immediate action versus a short delay. Ahithophel, renowned for his shrewd counsel, presented his thoughts, proposing: Let us confront your father, who is currently exhausted and dismayed; if we do not allow him a moment’s respite, we shall seize the opportunity; if we strike now, while he is unprepared, it will pose no challenge for us.
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At that moment, when the war council had assembled and various sides presented their views on whether immediate action was necessary or if a brief delay was prudent, the ominous Ahithophel stepped forward as a consultant to share his thoughts. He advised: while your father is currently confused and fearful, we should attack him, and thus, without granting him even a moment’s breath, we will annihilate him; if we engage him now, while he is caught off guard, it will require little effort on our part.
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Pride is the most alien disposition to the Christian spirit. In discussing pride, I do not imply boldness or valor, as these are inherent to the Christian character. Humility stands apart from lowliness, sycophancy, and servility. If you desire, I can illustrate this further. It is recognized that opposites sometimes coexist, such as tares with wheat or thorns alongside roses. Children are often easily misled, but mature individuals, well-versed in spiritual matters, can discern true goodness from falsehood. Let us reflect on scriptural examples of flattery, lowliness, and servility. Siba inappropriately flattered David while disparaging his master; similarly, Ahithophel offered excessive praise to Absalom (See 2 Samuel 16:15-23). In contrast, David exemplified true humility.