Jump to: Topical • ISBE • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Conceit, often understood as excessive pride in oneself or one's abilities, is a theme addressed in various passages throughout the Bible. It is generally portrayed as a negative trait that leads individuals away from humility and dependence on God. The Bible warns against conceit, emphasizing the virtues of humility and the dangers of pride.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, conceit is often linked with pride and arrogance, which are seen as precursors to downfall. Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse highlights the inevitable consequences of conceit, suggesting that those who are overly self-assured are setting themselves up for failure. The account of King Uzziah in 2 Chronicles 26 serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of conceit. Uzziah's reign began with success and prosperity as long as he sought the Lord. However, his heart became proud, leading to his downfall. 2 Chronicles 26:16 notes, "But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction, for he transgressed against the LORD his God." New Testament References The New Testament continues to address the issue of conceit, particularly in the context of Christian conduct and community life. In Romans 12:3 , the Apostle Paul advises, "For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you." This exhortation encourages believers to maintain a humble perspective, recognizing their dependence on God's grace. In Philippians 2:3 , Paul further instructs, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." This verse underscores the importance of humility and selflessness, contrasting them with the destructive nature of conceit. Theological Implications Conceit is often seen as a barrier to spiritual growth and community harmony. It can lead to a false sense of self-sufficiency, distancing individuals from reliance on God. The Bible consistently calls for humility, recognizing that all abilities and achievements are gifts from God. James 4:6 reminds believers, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" Practical Applications In practical terms, Christians are encouraged to cultivate humility by acknowledging their limitations and the contributions of others. This involves a conscious effort to avoid self-exaltation and to seek God's guidance in all endeavors. By doing so, believers can foster a spirit of unity and love within the body of Christ, reflecting the character of Jesus, who exemplified ultimate humility. Conclusion While the Bible does not explicitly use the term "conceit" frequently, the concept is woven throughout its teachings on pride and humility. The consistent biblical message is clear: conceit leads to separation from God and others, while humility opens the door to grace and community. Topical Bible Verses Jeremiah 9:23Thus said the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: Topicalbible.org Romans 12:16 Luke 18:11 Isaiah 5:21 Proverbs 28:26 Proverbs 3:5 Proverbs 12:15 Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) An unduly high opinion of oneself.2. (n.) Faculty of conceiving ideas; mental faculty; apprehension; as, a man of quick conceit. 3. (n.) Quickness of apprehension; active imagination; lively fancy. 4. (n.) A fanciful, odd, or extravagant notion; a quant fancy; an unnatural or affected conception; a witty thought or turn of expression; a fanciful device; a whim; a quip. 5. (n.) An overweening idea of one's self; vanity. 6. (n.) Design; pattern. 7. (v. t.) To conceive; to imagine. 8. (v. i.) To form an idea; to think. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CONCEITkon-set': An idiomatic rendering of a phrase, phronimoi en heautois, in Romans 11:25; Romans 12:16; meaning literally, "wise with one's self," i.e. "in one's own opinion," or, as in parallel Old Testament passages (Proverbs 26:5, 12 the Revised Version, margin), "in his own eyes" (Hebrew `ayin). Greek 2754. kenodoxia -- vainglory ... 2755 (). Word Origin from kenodoxos Definition vainglory NASB Word Usage empty conceit (1). vainglory, vanity, conceit. From kenodoxos ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2754.htm - 6k 2755. kenodoxos -- vainglorious 3053. logismos -- a reasoning, a thought 5187. tuphoo -- to be conceited, foolish Strong's Hebrew 4906. maskith -- a showpiece, figure, imagination... 1), imaginations (1), settings (1). conceit, imagery, picture, wish. From the same as Sekuw; a figure (carved on stone, the wall, or ... /hebrew/4906.htm - 6k 5869. ayin -- an eye Library A Short Conceit of the Work of this Book, Treated by Question. Self-Conceit. September 12. There is no Reason for Self-Conceit. There is no Reason for Self-Conceit. 'Love Buildeth Up' Prayer and Humility The Loftiness of Humility Two Fortresses The Pietist and the Perfectionist. The Hindrances to Mourning Thesaurus Conceit (14 Occurrences)... 1. (n.) An unduly high opinion of oneself. 2. (n.) Faculty of conceiving ideas; mental faculty; apprehension; as, a man of quick conceit. ...CONCEIT. ... /c/conceit.htm - 11k Self-conceit (1 Occurrence) Conceited (14 Occurrences) Vanity (100 Occurrences) Overflow (43 Occurrences) Opinion (91 Occurrences) Overweening (3 Occurrences) Lofty (44 Occurrences) Loftily (4 Occurrences) Loftiness (10 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about conceit / being conceited? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit (Philippians 2:3)? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about selfishness? | GotQuestions.org Conceit: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Conceit (14 Occurrences)Romans 12:16 Philippians 2:3 1 Timothy 3:6 1 Timothy 6:4 2 Timothy 3:4 Job 37:24 Psalms 73:7 Proverbs 18:11 Proverbs 26:5 Proverbs 26:12 Proverbs 26:16 Proverbs 28:11 Isaiah 16:6 Jeremiah 48:29 Subtopics Conceit: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |