Topical Encyclopedia Pride, often considered the root of many sins, is a significant theme throughout the Bible. It is characterized by an inflated sense of one's own worth or abilities, often leading to a disregard for others and for God. The saints, those who are set apart for God's purposes, are called to hate pride in others, recognizing it as a destructive force that opposes the humility and submission required by a life devoted to God.Biblical Foundation The Bible consistently warns against pride and its consequences. Proverbs 8:13 states, "To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate arrogant pride, evil conduct, and perverse speech." This verse highlights that a reverent relationship with God involves a disdain for pride, aligning with the saints' call to reject it in themselves and others. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of pride in the church. In Romans 12:3, he 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." This instruction underscores the importance of humility and the rejection of prideful attitudes among believers. Saints' Attitude Toward Pride in Others The saints' hatred of pride in others is not rooted in self-righteousness but in a desire for the spiritual well-being of the community and the glory of God. Pride disrupts unity and hinders the work of the Holy Spirit. James 4:6 reminds believers, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" Saints, therefore, are called to oppose pride as God does, seeking to cultivate humility and grace within the body of Christ. Examples of Saints Confronting Pride Throughout Scripture, there are numerous examples of saints confronting pride in others. One notable instance is the prophet Nathan's confrontation of King David after his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:1-14). Nathan's boldness in addressing David's prideful actions serves as a model for how saints are to approach pride in others—with truth and a desire for repentance. Similarly, the Apostle Paul frequently addressed pride within the early church. In 1 Corinthians 5:2, he rebukes the Corinthian church for their prideful tolerance of sin, urging them to mourn and remove the sin from among them. Paul's letters often reflect his commitment to rooting out pride to preserve the purity and unity of the church. Practical Implications for Believers Believers today are called to emulate the saints' attitude toward pride. This involves a commitment to personal humility and a willingness to address pride in others with love and truth. Galatians 6:1 advises, "Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted." This verse emphasizes the need for gentleness and self-awareness when confronting pride, ensuring that the goal is restoration rather than condemnation. In summary, the saints' hatred of pride in others is a reflection of their love for God and His people. By opposing pride, they seek to foster an environment where humility and grace can flourish, allowing the church to effectively fulfill its mission in the world. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 101:5Whoever privately slanders his neighbor, him will I cut off: him that has an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Pride and Humility Pride and Humility The Holiness of God How Saints May Help the Devil There have Come to Me Ransomers from among the Saints, but None ... How to Discern Our Title to the Saints' Rest. "But Ye are not in the Flesh, but in the Spirit, if So be that the ... Letter cix. To Riparius. Of the Mortification of the Affections of the Will... What Self Deserves 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 |