Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature:The term "boastful" refers to an attitude or behavior characterized by excessive pride and self-glorification. In the biblical context, boasting is often associated with arrogance and a lack of humility before God. It is considered a sin because it elevates the self above others and, more importantly, above God. Biblical References: 1. Old Testament: · Proverbs 27:1-2 : "Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring. Let another praise you, and not your own mouth—a stranger, and not your own lips." This passage warns against self-praise and presumption about the future, emphasizing the unpredictability of life and the importance of humility. · Psalm 10:3 : "For the wicked man boasts in the cravings of his heart; he blesses the greedy and reviles the LORD." Here, boasting is linked with wickedness and a heart that is not aligned with God's will. 2. New Testament: · James 4:16 : "As it is, you boast in your proud intentions. All such boasting is evil." James condemns boasting as evil, particularly when it stems from prideful intentions and self-reliance rather than dependence on God. · 1 Corinthians 1:31 : "Therefore, as it is written: 'Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.'" This verse redirects the focus of boasting from self to God, encouraging believers to find their worth and pride in their relationship with the Lord rather than in personal achievements. Theological Implications: Boasting is often seen as a manifestation of pride, which is one of the seven deadly sins. It reflects a heart that is not fully submitted to God and His sovereignty. The Bible consistently teaches that all good things come from God, and thus, any boasting should be directed towards His glory and not one's own accomplishments. Moral and Ethical Considerations: From a moral standpoint, boasting is discouraged because it can lead to division, envy, and strife among individuals. It undermines the Christian virtues of humility, gratitude, and love. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently admonishes believers to live in humility and to consider others better than themselves (Philippians 2:3). Practical Application: Believers are encouraged to cultivate a spirit of humility and gratitude, recognizing that all talents, successes, and blessings are gifts from God. Instead of boasting in personal achievements, Christians are called to boast in the Lord, acknowledging His work in their lives and giving Him the glory for all things. Contrast with Godly Boasting: While human boasting is condemned, the Bible does make a distinction for boasting in the Lord. This form of boasting is not about self-exaltation but about exalting God and His deeds. It is an expression of faith and trust in God's power and goodness, as seen in passages like Jeremiah 9:23-24 : "Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, nor the strong man in his strength, nor the wealthy man in his riches. But let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD, who exercises loving devotion, justice, and righteousness on the earth—for I delight in these things, declares the LORD." Conclusion: The Bible's teaching on boastfulness serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and the recognition of God's sovereignty in all aspects of life. By redirecting any inclination to boast towards God, believers can maintain a proper perspective on their achievements and their relationship with the Creator. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (a.) Given to, or full of, boasting; inclined to boast; vaunting; vainglorious; self-praising.Greek 2755. kenodoxos -- vainglorious ... Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: kenodoxos Phonetic Spelling: (ken-od'-ox-os) Short Definition: vainglorious Definition: vainglorious, boastful. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2755.htm - 7k 5246. huperogkos -- of excessive weight or size 213. alazon -- vagabond, hence an impostor, boaster 212. alazoneia -- boastfulness Strong's Hebrew 1984b. halal -- to be boastful, to praise... 1984a, 1984b. halal. 1985 . to be boastful, to praise. Transliteration: halal Short Definition: praise. Word Origin a prim. root ... /hebrew/1984b.htm - 6k 7229. rab -- great 6286. paar -- to beautify, glorify Library O, Death, be not Thou Boastful, Over the Just But Now, Since My Pleading Has Steered Its Course Out of These ... On Sandals and Simplicity Second Stage of Jewish Trial. Jesus Condemned by Caiaphas and the ... Letter vi. To Salvius: a Complaint that the Country People were ... Christ the Bread of Life. On the Different Functions of Modesty. ... But we must Follow Our Preacher, who Can Only Turn Away with ... The Fig-Tree. Deliverance from Assyria Thesaurus Boastful (18 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Boastful (18 Occurrences). ... Love knows neither envy nor jealousy. Love is not forward and self-assertive, nor boastful and conceited. ... /b/boastful.htm - 11k Glorious (91 Occurrences) Parents (27 Occurrences) Arrogant (60 Occurrences) Haughty (35 Occurrences) Disobedient (30 Occurrences) Boast (86 Occurrences) Boastfully (6 Occurrences) Vainglorious (1 Occurrence) Ungrateful (2 Occurrences) Resources What is the little horn in the book of Daniel? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Sennacherib in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who are the super-apostles Paul mentions in 2 Corinthians 11:5? | GotQuestions.org Boastful: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Boastful (18 Occurrences)Romans 1:30 1 Corinthians 4:6 1 Corinthians 13:4 2 Corinthians 11:17 Galatians 5:26 2 Timothy 3:2 James 3:5 2 Peter 2:18 1 John 2:16 Jude 1:16 Revelation 13:5 Judges 7:2 Psalms 5:5 Psalms 12:3 Psalms 73:2 Psalms 75:4 Jeremiah 49:4 Daniel 7:11 Subtopics Related Terms |