Topical Encyclopedia Pride, as depicted in the Bible, is a significant barrier to seeking and knowing God. It is often portrayed as an attitude of self-sufficiency and arrogance that leads individuals away from the humility required to submit to God's will. The Scriptures consistently warn against pride, highlighting its destructive nature and its ability to distance individuals from a genuine relationship with the Creator.Biblical Definition and Examples Pride is characterized by an inflated sense of one's own importance, abilities, or achievements. It is the opposite of humility, which is highly valued in the biblical narrative. Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse underscores the inevitable downfall that accompanies pride, serving as a cautionary reminder of its perilous nature. The Bible provides numerous examples of pride leading to spiritual downfall. One of the most notable is the account of Lucifer, whose pride led to his rebellion against God and subsequent fall from grace (Isaiah 14:12-15). Similarly, King Nebuchadnezzar's pride in his own achievements resulted in his temporary downfall and madness until he acknowledged God's sovereignty (Daniel 4:28-37). Pride as a Barrier to God Pride creates a barrier between individuals and God by fostering a sense of self-reliance and independence that negates the need for divine guidance. 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 passage highlights the opposition that pride creates between humanity and God, emphasizing that divine grace is extended to those who approach Him with humility. The Pharisees in the New Testament exemplify how pride can hinder one's relationship with God. Their self-righteousness and adherence to legalistic traditions blinded them to the truth of Jesus' message (Matthew 23:1-36). Jesus frequently rebuked their prideful attitudes, illustrating how it prevented them from recognizing their need for repentance and salvation. The Call to Humility The Bible calls believers to adopt a posture of humility as a means of overcoming pride and drawing closer to God. Micah 6:8 instructs, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" This verse encapsulates the essence of a life pleasing to God, one marked by humility and a recognition of His authority. Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate model of humility. Philippians 2:5-8 describes how He "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 humility is the antithesis of pride and serves as a guide for believers in their pursuit of a deeper relationship with God. Consequences of Pride The consequences of pride are severe, both in this life and in the eternal perspective. Proverbs 29:23 warns, "A man's pride will bring him low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor." Pride not only leads to personal downfall but also disrupts community and relationships, as it fosters conflict and division. In the spiritual realm, pride can result in eternal separation from God. The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9-14) illustrates this truth. The Pharisee's prideful prayer contrasted with the tax collector's humble plea for mercy demonstrates that only those who recognize their need for God's grace will be justified. Overcoming Pride Overcoming pride requires intentional effort and reliance on God's strength. Believers are encouraged to cultivate humility through prayer, self-examination, and a commitment to serving others. 1 Peter 5:6 advises, "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you." By acknowledging their dependence on God and seeking His guidance, individuals can break free from the chains of pride and experience the fullness of a relationship with Him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 10:4The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hosea 7:10 Library Of Divine Wisdom. On God's vineyard Among Snares Showing How Some Men Live Contrary to These Exercises The Beams of Our Houses are of Cedar and Our Carved Ceilings are ... Later English Reformers. Later English Reformers Sermon for Septuagesima Sunday On a Holy Martyr's Day Sermon on a Martyr's Day 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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