Topical Encyclopedia Ambition, in its essence, is the strong desire to achieve something, typically requiring determination and hard work. While ambition can drive individuals to accomplish great things, the Bible provides numerous warnings against the pursuit of selfish ambition, which is often condemned by God. This entry explores the biblical perspective on ambition, particularly when it is self-centered and contrary to God's will.Old Testament Insights The Old Testament offers several examples and teachings that highlight the dangers of selfish ambition. In Genesis 11:4, the builders of the Tower of Babel said, "Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves." Their ambition was rooted in pride and a desire for self-glorification, leading to God's intervention and the scattering of the people. Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse underscores the peril of prideful ambition, suggesting that such attitudes lead to downfall and divine disfavor. Similarly, Ecclesiastes 4:4 observes, "I saw that all labor and all success spring from a man's envy of his neighbor. This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind." Here, ambition driven by envy is deemed meaningless and ultimately unfulfilling. New Testament Teachings The New Testament continues to address the issue of ambition, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. In Mark 10:43-44, Jesus instructs His disciples, "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be the slave of all." This teaching contrasts worldly ambition with the call to servanthood, emphasizing humility and service over self-promotion. The Apostle Paul also speaks against selfish ambition in his letters. In Philippians 2:3, he writes, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." Paul encourages believers to adopt a mindset of humility, valuing others above oneself, which stands in stark contrast to self-centered ambition. James 3:14-16 further elaborates on the destructive nature of selfish ambition: "But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice." James warns that selfish ambition leads to chaos and evil, indicating its incompatibility with godly wisdom. Biblical Examples Several biblical figures exemplify the consequences of selfish ambition. King Saul's ambition to maintain his throne led to disobedience and ultimately his downfall (1 Samuel 15:22-23). Absalom's ambition to usurp his father David's throne resulted in civil war and his own death (2 Samuel 15-18). These narratives serve as cautionary tales about the destructive potential of unchecked ambition. Conversely, the Bible also presents positive examples of ambition aligned with God's purposes. Nehemiah's ambition to rebuild Jerusalem's walls was driven by a desire to honor God and restore His people (Nehemiah 2:17-18). His account illustrates how ambition, when rooted in a desire to serve God and others, can lead to righteous outcomes. Conclusion The Bible consistently warns against ambition that is self-serving and prideful, emphasizing instead a life of humility, service, and alignment with God's will. Believers are called to examine their motives and pursue ambitions that glorify God and benefit others, rather than seeking personal gain or recognition. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 11:7Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 5:8 Library God Distinguished from Idols, that He May be the Exclusive Object ... Paul's Last Letter Men Often Highly Esteem what God Abhors. The Trial at Caesarea Of the Miseries and Ills to which the Human Race is Justly Exposed ... More and More The Parable of the Householder. A Sermon, by Bishop Latimer. Woes on the Pharisees Letter ii. Through the Fall and Revolt of Adam, the Whole Human Race Made ... Resources Who was John the Apostle in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgIs it wrong for a Christian to have the goal of being rich and famous? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about humility? | GotQuestions.org Ambition: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Ambition: Connected With: Covetousness Ambition: Connected With: Cruelty Ambition: Connected With: Pride Ambition: Falsely Charged Against Moses Ambition: Korah and his Co-Conspirators Ambition: Leads to Strife and Contention Ambition: Parable of the Thistle, Illustrating Ambition: The Builders of Babel Ambition: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Related Terms |
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