Topical Encyclopedia Pride, as depicted in the Bible, is often seen as a significant barrier to spiritual growth and personal improvement. It is characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance and a reliance on one's own abilities rather than on God. The Scriptures consistently warn against pride, highlighting its destructive nature and its ability to distance individuals from God and others.Biblical Warnings Against Pride The Bible frequently addresses the dangers of pride, emphasizing its role in leading individuals away from God. Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse underscores the inevitable downfall that accompanies pride, suggesting that it blinds individuals to their vulnerabilities and leads to their ruin. In the New Testament, James 4:6 echoes this sentiment: "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" Here, pride is depicted as a barrier to receiving God's grace, as it sets individuals in opposition to Him. The proud are contrasted with the humble, who are open to divine assistance and growth. Pride as a Barrier to Spiritual Growth Pride not only distances individuals from God but also hinders their spiritual development. It fosters a sense of self-sufficiency that negates the need for divine guidance and correction. In Proverbs 11:2 , it is written, "When pride comes, disgrace follows, but with humility comes wisdom." This verse suggests that pride leads to disgrace because it prevents individuals from acknowledging their need for wisdom and instruction. The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector in Luke 18:9-14 further illustrates this point. The Pharisee's pride in his own righteousness blinds him to his need for God's mercy, while the humble tax collector, aware of his shortcomings, receives justification. This parable highlights how pride can obstruct one's relationship with God and impede spiritual progress. Pride in Relationships with Others Pride not only affects one's relationship with God but also impacts interactions with others. It often manifests as arrogance and a lack of empathy, leading to conflict and division. Proverbs 13:10 states, "Arrogance leads only to strife, but wisdom is with the well-advised." This verse indicates that pride fosters discord, as it prevents individuals from seeking counsel and understanding. In the context of the Christian community, pride can be particularly damaging. The Apostle Paul, in Philippians 2:3 , advises, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." This exhortation highlights the importance of humility in fostering unity and cooperation among believers, suggesting that pride undermines these values. Pride and the Example of Christ The life and teachings of Jesus Christ provide the ultimate example of humility, serving as a counterpoint to pride. In Philippians 2:5-8 , Paul describes Christ's humility: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." Christ's willingness to humble Himself and serve others stands in stark contrast to the prideful pursuit of self-exaltation. His example calls believers to adopt a similar attitude of humility, recognizing that true greatness lies in service and submission to God's will. Overcoming Pride The Bible offers guidance on overcoming pride, emphasizing the need for humility and reliance on God. In 1 Peter 5:6 , believers are encouraged to "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you." This verse suggests that humility is a prerequisite for divine exaltation, as it aligns individuals with God's purposes and opens them to His transformative work. Prayer and self-examination are also vital in combating pride. Psalm 139:23-24 serves as a model for seeking God's help in identifying and addressing pride: "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Through such practices, believers can cultivate a spirit of humility and openness to God's guidance, allowing for genuine improvement and growth. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 26:12See you a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library the Use of Humiliation Spoken in Antioch in the Old Church, as it was Called... In Internal Contemplative Ways a Guide is Necessary, and Why? 2... Entire Sanctification Homilies on the Statues. The Church of Notre Dame De Lorette in Paris with Its Yellow ... On the Death of his Father. Attitude of Men of the Present Day to War. Though in Almost Every Age There have Indeed Been in the Heathen ... "Thou Shalt Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother. " 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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