Culture and the world attempt to capture our allegiance. Peter struggled with this in his life. When Christ spoke that he was going to Jerusalem for the crucifixion, Peter replied with a contradictory statement by saying, “No, Lord.” Jesus can’t be Lord of your life if you tell him no. Jesus rebuked him for this. When Christ spoke about his death and resurrection, Peter replied with a boastful statement that he would never fall away.

When we look at Ancient Rome, one of the characteristics that define it is pride. You can go down to Rome today and see the remains of their pride. All Roman men's statues depict handsome, muscled-up, courageous, and dignified men. The figure of Caesar Augustus doesn't simply proclaim pride, but it makes a declaration of his supposed deity. They sought glory and prided themselves upon their own perceived strength.