Topical Encyclopedia Ambition, in its worldly sense, is often characterized by a strong desire for personal advancement, power, or recognition. Within the Christian tradition, particularly from a conservative perspective, ambition is frequently viewed with caution, as it can lead to pride, selfishness, and a departure from godly virtues. The Bible provides numerous warnings against the pursuit of selfish ambition, urging believers to seek humility and service instead.Biblical Warnings Against Ambition The Scriptures consistently caution against the dangers of selfish ambition. In the Epistle of James, the apostle warns, "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice" (James 3:16). This passage highlights the destructive nature of ambition that is rooted in self-interest, leading to chaos and moral decay. The apostle Paul also addresses the issue of ambition in his letters. In Philippians 2:3, he exhorts believers, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves" . Here, Paul contrasts selfish ambition with the Christian virtue of humility, emphasizing the importance of valuing others above oneself. The Example of Christ The life and teachings of Jesus Christ serve as the ultimate model for Christians in avoiding selfish ambition. Jesus consistently demonstrated humility and servanthood, even to the point of sacrificing His own life. In Mark 10:43-45, 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. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many" . This teaching underscores the call for believers to reject worldly ambition in favor of a life dedicated to serving others. Ambition in the Early Church The early church fathers also recognized the dangers of ambition. In their writings, they often warned against the pursuit of personal glory and power within the church. The apostle Peter, in his first epistle, advises church leaders, "Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them—not out of compulsion, but because it is God’s will; not out of greed, but out of eagerness" (1 Peter 5:2). This instruction reflects the early church's emphasis on leading with a servant's heart rather than seeking personal gain. The Call to Humility and Service Throughout the New Testament, believers are called to a life of humility and service, in stark contrast to the pursuit of selfish ambition. In Romans 12:10, Paul writes, "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another" . This call to honor others above oneself is a recurring theme, encouraging Christians to focus on the well-being of others rather than personal advancement. The teachings of Jesus and the apostles consistently point to a life that shuns selfish ambition in favor of humility, service, and love for others. By following these principles, believers are encouraged to live in a manner that reflects the character of Christ, avoiding the pitfalls of worldly ambition and embracing a life of godly purpose. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 131:1,2Lord, my heart is not haughty, nor my eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Great Misery of those who Lose the Saints' Rest. An Appendix to the Beatitudes Justification The Epistle of Alexander, Bishop of Alexandria to Alexander ... Byzantine Empresses Theodora ii. , Theophano, Zoe, Theodora iii. Herod and Peter. Twenty-Fourth Day. Holiness and Cleansing. Massillon -- the Small Number of the Elect Noah's Faith, Fear, Obedience, and Salvation The Hedge of Thorns and the Plain Way 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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