Topical Encyclopedia Envy is a destructive emotion characterized by a resentful longing aroused by someone else's possessions, qualities, or achievements. Within the biblical context, envy is consistently portrayed as a sin that leads to discord and spiritual decay. The Bible provides numerous warnings against envy, emphasizing its detrimental effects on both individuals and communities.Old Testament Insights The Old Testament frequently addresses the issue of envy, illustrating its negative consequences through narratives and direct commandments. In the Ten Commandments, God explicitly forbids covetousness, which is closely related to envy: "You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor" (Exodus 20:17). This commandment underscores the importance of contentment and the dangers of desiring what belongs to others. The account of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4:3-8 serves as an early example of envy leading to sin. Cain's envy of Abel's favorable offering to God results in the first murder, highlighting how unchecked envy can escalate into violence and tragedy. Wisdom Literature The wisdom literature of the Old Testament further elaborates on the perils of envy. Proverbs 14:30 states, "A tranquil heart is life to the body, but envy rots the bones" . This proverb contrasts the peace and health that come from contentment with the physical and spiritual decay caused by envy. Similarly, Ecclesiastes 4:4 observes, "I have seen that every labor and every success is the result of rivalry between a man and his neighbor. This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind" , suggesting that envy-driven competition is ultimately meaningless. New Testament Teachings The New Testament continues to warn against envy, often listing it among other sins that believers must avoid. In Galatians 5:19-21, envy is included in the "acts of the flesh," which are contrary to living by the Spirit: "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, rage, rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, carousing, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God" . The Apostle Paul also addresses envy in his letters to the early churches. In 1 Corinthians 3:3, he admonishes the Corinthian believers for their envy and strife, indicating that such behavior is a sign of spiritual immaturity: "For you are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and dissension among you, are you not worldly? Are you not walking in the way of man?" . The Example of Christ Jesus Christ, through His teachings and example, provides the ultimate antidote to envy. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus calls His followers to a higher standard of love and humility, urging them to seek first the kingdom of God rather than worldly possessions or status (Matthew 6:33). His life exemplifies selflessness and contentment, offering a model for believers to emulate. Practical Implications for Believers For Christians, overcoming envy involves cultivating a heart of gratitude and contentment. The Apostle Paul, in Philippians 4:11-13, shares his secret to contentment: "I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" . By relying on Christ's strength, believers can resist the temptation of envy and embrace a life marked by peace and satisfaction in God's provision. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 3:31Envy you not the oppressor, and choose none of his ways. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 13:13 Library Whether Envy is a Sin? The Right Understanding of the Law What are the Sins Forbidden in the Sixth Commandment? The Passions are to be Subdued, and we must Abstain from Forbidden ... How Antipater Committed the Care of Galilee to Herod, and that of ... Treatise x. On Jealousy and Envy. The Sixth Commandment Thou Shalt not Covet Thy Neighbor's House. Thou Shalt not Covet ... Adam's Sin The Life of Adam Resources What does the Bible say about envy? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the difference between envy and jealousy, biblically speaking? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that love does not envy (1 Corinthians 13:4)? | GotQuestions.org Envy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Envy: A Proof of Carnal-Mindedness Envy: Excited by Good Deeds of Others Envy: General Scriptures Concerning Envy: Inconsistent With the Gospel Envy: Jews, of Paul and Barnabas Envy: Joseph's Brethren, of Joseph Envy: Joshua, of Eldad and Medad Envy: Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, of Moses Envy: Leads to Every Evil Work Envy: Miriam and Aaron, of Moses Envy: Produced by Foolish Disputation Envy: Prosperity of the Wicked should not Excite Envy: The Princes of Babylon, of Daniel Related Terms Unrighteousness (57 Occurrences) Long-suffering (23 Occurrences) |
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