Topical Encyclopedia Pride, a central theme in biblical teachings, is often depicted as a destructive force that leads individuals away from humility and towards conflict and strife. The Bible consistently warns against pride, illustrating its potential to cause division and discord among people.Biblical Definition and Context Pride is characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance and a lack of regard for others. It is often associated with arrogance and a refusal to submit to God's authority. In the biblical context, pride is seen as a sin that distances individuals from God and disrupts harmonious relationships with others. Scriptural References The Book of Proverbs frequently addresses the dangers of pride and its tendency to lead to contention. Proverbs 13:10 states, "Arrogance leads only to strife, but wisdom is with the well-advised." This verse highlights the direct link between pride and conflict, contrasting it with the peace that comes from wisdom and humility. Proverbs 28:25 further emphasizes this connection: "A greedy man stirs up strife, but he who trusts in the LORD will prosper." Here, pride is associated with greed and the resultant strife, while trust in the Lord is presented as the path to prosperity and peace. Historical and Theological Insights Throughout biblical history, pride has been a recurring issue leading to contention and downfall. The account of King Saul serves as a poignant example. Saul's pride and disobedience to God's commands led to his rejection as king and eventual downfall (1 Samuel 15:23). His prideful actions resulted in conflict with David and internal strife within the kingdom. Theologically, pride is often seen as the root of other sins, as it elevates the self above God and others. This elevation leads to a breakdown in relationships and community, as individuals prioritize their desires over collective well-being. Practical Implications In practical terms, pride manifests in various ways, such as an unwillingness to listen to others, a desire for control, and an inability to admit wrongdoing. These behaviors inevitably lead to contention, as they create barriers to understanding and reconciliation. The Bible encourages believers to cultivate humility as an antidote to pride. Philippians 2:3 advises, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." This call to humility is a call to peace, urging believers to prioritize others and seek harmony over personal gain. Conclusion While pride is a natural human inclination, the Bible provides clear guidance on its dangers and the importance of humility. By recognizing the link between pride and contention, believers are encouraged to seek wisdom and humility, fostering peace and unity in their relationships and communities. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 13:10Only by pride comes contention: but with the well advised is wisdom. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 28:25 Library Evil Cannot be Suppressed by the Physical Force of the Government ... Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians. Concerning Peaceableness Works which Hallow the Sabbath A Summary of the Christian Life. Of Self-Denial. A Summary of the Christian Life. Of Self-Denial. Demonstration xxii. --Of Death and the Latter Times. Of the Perturbations of the Soul which Appear as Right Affections ... Letter vii. Self-Denial. The Way to the Kingdom 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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