Al Mischnick, focusing on one of the worst vices one can have—pride—suggests that the temptation to be wise led to Eve's consuming the forbidden fruit, just as Hillel's heart had been lifted up, desiring to supplant God. After consuming the forbidden fruit, shame and pride became greatly magnified in our original parents. Adam and Eve, demonstrating pride, justified themselves and started to blame someone else.  Jesus Christ, having been born of the Holy Spirit, was totally free of pride.  The disciples of John the Baptist demonstrated some pride when they noticed Jesus Christ was eclipsing their efforts. John demonstrated by humility by acquiescing to Jesus Christ's ascendency. Pride produces shame, but with humility comes wisdom. When Jesus was harassed by the Pharisees, He did not let pride ruffle His equilibrium. When Satan is confined at Christ's second coming, the source of pride will be removed from mankind.

Adam and Eve * Birth of Jesus Christ * Calling from God * Genesis 2:24; 3:6 * God the Father * Holy Spirit * Humility * John 3:22-25; 8:12-39 * Matthew 1:18; 11:11 * Pharisees * Pride * Proverbs 11:2 * Satan * Spirit in man