Topical Encyclopedia Pride, as depicted in the Bible, is often associated with the disposition and actions of the wicked. It is considered a fundamental sin that leads individuals away from God and towards self-destruction. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and warnings about the dangers of pride, emphasizing its role in the lives of those who oppose God's will.Biblical Definition and Context Pride is characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, arrogance, and a lack of humility. It is the elevation of oneself above others and, ultimately, above God. The Bible frequently contrasts pride with humility, highlighting the virtue of the latter as a quality pleasing to God. Old Testament References In the Old Testament, pride is often linked with the downfall of individuals and nations. Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse encapsulates the inevitable consequence of pride, which is ruin and disgrace. The account of King Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4 serves as a vivid illustration of this principle. Nebuchadnezzar's pride in his accomplishments led to his temporary downfall and madness until he acknowledged God's sovereignty. The Psalms frequently describe the wicked as those who are proud. Psalm 10:4 states, "In his pride the wicked man does not seek Him; in all his schemes there is no God." This verse highlights how pride blinds individuals to their need for God, leading them to rely on their own understanding and strength. New Testament Insights The New Testament continues to address the issue of pride, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. In Mark 7:21-23 , Jesus lists pride among the evils that come from within a person and defile them. The apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently warns against pride, urging believers to adopt a spirit of humility. In Romans 12:3 , 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 think of yourself with sober judgment, according to the measure of faith God has given you." Consequences of Pride The Bible consistently portrays pride as leading to separation from God. James 4:6 declares, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" This opposition from God is a serious consequence, as it places the proud in direct conflict with the Creator. Pride also leads to interpersonal strife and discord. Proverbs 13:10 notes, "Arrogance leads only to strife, but wisdom is with the well-advised." The proud often find themselves in conflict with others due to their inability to accept counsel or admit wrongdoing. Examples of the Proud in Scripture Several biblical figures exemplify the destructive nature of pride. In addition to Nebuchadnezzar, King Saul's downfall is attributed to his pride and disobedience to God's commands (1 Samuel 15). The Pharisees, during Jesus' ministry, are frequently criticized for their prideful adherence to the law and their self-righteousness, which blinded them to the truth of Christ's message. Conclusion The Bible's portrayal of pride as a characteristic of the wicked serves as a cautionary tale for believers. It underscores the importance of humility and the recognition of one's dependence on God. Through the examples and teachings found in Scripture, individuals are encouraged to guard against pride and to seek a life marked by humility and submission to God's will. Torrey's Topical Textbook Habakkuk 2:4,5Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 1:30 Library The Future State a Self-Conscious State. Blessed Prosperity Meditations on the First Psalm. Implanting in Christ. Relation of Manich??ism to Zoroastrianism. Moral Characteristics. Hopkinsians. Chapter iv The Second Series of Parables - the Two Parables of Him who is ... Charity and Conflict. Palestine under Pagan Kings. Resources What does the Bible say about hubris? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is pride a sin? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about how to humble yourself? | 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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