The Self: BFG Chapter 18 Igniting the New Evangelization (Ego, Cleverness, and False Leaders)
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Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-18-the-self
Ever felt adrift in a sea of contradictory advice, uncertain values, and competing voices? That unsettling sensation of losing your bearings is at the heart of our fascinating exploration into Chapter 18 of the "Built for Greatness, Built for God" handbook—a Christian interpretation of the Tao Te Ching.
This episode unpacks what happens when we drift from deeper wisdom and try to navigate life solely through our own understanding. We examine four critical warning signs that appear when we've lost our way: self-righteousness emerges when we abandon shared moral frameworks, deception follows when we prize cleverness over integrity, family dynamics become rule-bound when true harmony fades, and false leaders gain influence during times of social confusion.
The beauty of this ancient wisdom lies in its universality. Though viewed through a Christian lens, these insights find striking parallels across Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism—all recognizing the dangers of ego, the value of humility, and the importance of discernment. We explore how scripture from various traditions warns against these spiritual pitfalls while offering pathways back to wisdom through humility, ethical decision-making, genuine connection, and thoughtful leadership evaluation.
Whether you're struggling with workplace conflicts, family tensions, or simply trying to make sense of our chaotic world, these age-old insights provide practical guidance for modern challenges. Take a moment to reflect on where you might be overrelying on your own judgment instead of seeking deeper wisdom. What current situation in your life might benefit from viewing it through this lens of humility and discernment? Join us as we bridge ancient wisdom with contemporary life and rediscover what it means to find our way back to what truly matters.
Chapter 18: The Self
When people abandon God’s Way
Their own self-righteousness appears a
When people turn to cleverness
Their own deception appears
When people lose harmony in the family b
Their emphasis on family values appears
When the people are confused and in chaos c
Their false minister appears
a Exodus 32:1-10; 1 Corinthians 3:18-21; b 1 Timothy 5:8; c Jeremiah 23:16.
Chapters
1. Introduction to Lost Wisdom (00:00:00)
2. Self-Righteousness vs. Humility (00:02:12)
3. Cleverness Leading to Deception (00:05:37)
4. Family Values Without True Harmony (00:07:53)
5. False Leaders in Times of Chaos (00:10:18)
6. Universal Wisdom and Final Takeaways (00:13:42)
53 episodes