# CIII: Pusillanimity explained — Verses on Various Occasions > Chapter companion for Verses on Various Occasions by John Henry Newman. ## What happens The chapter reflects on the humility of John the Baptist when confronted with baptizing Christ, and extends this lesson to the believer's own reluctance to accept daunting spiritual duties, urging courage and purity of heart despite the fear of appearing proud. ## Themes in this chapter ### Faith and Doubt The chapter explores the tension between human fear and the call to faithful action, as seen in John's hesitation and the believer's own 'pusillanimity'. ### Suffering and Humility John's meekness and the believer's hidden sacrifice of pride are central, emphasizing humility in the face of divine calling. ### The Role of the Saint John the Baptist exemplifies the saint's role of pointing to Christ and accepting a subordinate position with grace. ## Character check-ins ### John John the Baptist is depicted in his humility, shrinking from baptizing Christ and desiring that Christ be chief. ### Christ Christ is the sinless one who comes to John for baptism, prompting John's humble response. ### Unknown The narrator reflects on the human experience of being called to daunting spiritual tasks and the need for courage. ## Key lines > How didst thou start, Thou Holy Baptist, bid To pour repentance on the Sinless Brow! How startled you were, holy John the Baptist, when asked to baptize the sinless Christ. _Highlights John's initial shock and humility at the prospect of baptizing Jesus._ > Nor must we shrink as cravens from the blame Of pride, in common eyes, or purpose deep; But with pure thoughts look up to God, and keep Our secret in our heart. We must not cowardly avoid the accusation of pride from others, but instead maintain pure intentions before God and keep our deeper purpose hidden. _Encourages the reader to act boldly in faith despite external judgment._ ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/verses_on_various_occasions_se/chapters/ciii-pusillanimity - Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/verses_on_various_occasions_se - All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/verses_on_various_occasions_se/chapters