Topical Encyclopedia Pride is often identified as a fundamental characteristic of the devil, serving as a root of his rebellion against God. This trait is considered the original sin that led to the fall of Lucifer, who was once a high-ranking angel. The Bible provides insights into the nature of pride and its destructive consequences, particularly as it relates to the devil.Biblical Background The concept of pride as a sin is deeply rooted in Scripture. Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse encapsulates the inevitable downfall that follows pride, a theme that is vividly illustrated in the narrative of the devil's rebellion. Lucifer's Fall While the Bible does not provide a detailed account of Lucifer's fall in a single passage, various scriptures allude to his prideful rebellion. Isaiah 14:12-15 is often interpreted as a metaphorical description of Lucifer's fall: "How you have fallen from heaven, O day star, son of the dawn! ... You said in your heart, 'I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God... But you will be brought down to Sheol, to the far reaches of the pit.'" This passage highlights the devil's desire to exalt himself above God, a clear manifestation of pride. Ezekiel 28:12-17 is another passage that is frequently associated with the fall of Lucifer. It describes a being of great beauty and wisdom who becomes corrupt due to pride: "Your heart became proud on account of your beauty, and you corrupted your wisdom because of your splendor" (Ezekiel 28:17). This passage underscores the corrupting influence of pride, leading to the downfall of one who was once perfect in beauty and wisdom. New Testament Insights The New Testament also addresses the issue of pride in relation to the devil. In 1 Timothy 3:6, Paul advises that a church leader "must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil" . This warning suggests that pride was a significant factor in the devil's condemnation and serves as a cautionary note for believers. James 4:6 states, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" This verse highlights the opposition between God and pride, reinforcing the idea that pride aligns one with the devil's rebellion against divine authority. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, pride is seen as the antithesis of the humility that God desires. It is a self-exalting attitude that places one's own will above God's, mirroring the devil's original sin. Pride leads to a separation from God, as it did with Lucifer, and is considered a gateway to other sins. Practical Considerations Believers are called to guard against pride, recognizing its potential to lead to spiritual downfall. The Bible encourages humility and submission to God's will as antidotes to pride. By understanding the devil's example, Christians are reminded of the importance of humility in their walk with God, striving to reflect the character of Christ rather than the prideful rebellion of the devil. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Timothy 3:6Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Introduction Charity and Conflict. Second Sunday after Trinity Exhortation to Brotherly Love. The Paschal Supper - the Institution of the Lord's Supper. Sin Overcoming and Overcome Evidences of Regeneration. Twenty Second Sunday after Trinity Paul's Thanks and Prayers for ... The Image of Self. The Last Supper. Grecian Literature, and the Roman Empire. Resources What does the Bible say about pride? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Pride of Jacob (Amos 8:7)? | GotQuestions.org What is the pride of life? | GotQuestions.org Pride: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Pride is Followed by Debasement Pride is Followed by Destruction Pride: A Characteristic: False Teachers Pride: A Characteristic: The Devil Pride: A Characteristic: The Wicked Pride: A Characteristic: The World Pride: A Hindrance to Improvement Pride: A Hindrance to Seeking God Pride: General Scriptures Concerning Pride: Hezekiah, in Displaying his Resources Pride: Leads Men to a Persecuting Spirit Pride: Leads Men to Contempt and Rejection of God's Word and Ministers Pride: Leads Men to Contention Pride: Leads Men to Self-Deception Pride: Naaman, Refusing to Wash in the Jordan River Pride: Often Originates in Inexperience Pride: Often Originates in Possession of Power Pride: Often Originates in Possession of Wealth Pride: Often Originates in Religious Privileges Pride: Often Originates in Self-Righteousness Pride: Often Originates in Unsanctified Knowledge Pride: Saints: Hate, in Others Pride: Saints: Mourn Over, in Others Pride: Saints: Respect Not, in Others Pride: Shall Abound in the Last Days Pride: The Wicked Encompassed With Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Abased Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Brought Into Contempt Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Brought Low Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Marred Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Punished Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Recompensed Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Resisted Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Scattered Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Subdued Related Terms |
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