Topical Encyclopedia Pride, often considered the root of many sins, is a condition of the heart that exalts oneself above others and even above God. It is a vice that the saints of the Bible consistently mourn over when observed in others, recognizing its destructive potential and its opposition to the humility that God desires.Biblical Instances and Teachings 1. Prophets and Leaders Mourning Over Pride: The prophets of the Old Testament frequently lamented the pride of the people of Israel and other nations. Isaiah, for instance, speaks against the pride of Moab, saying, "We have heard of Moab’s pride, his exceeding pride and conceit, his overflowing arrogance. But his boasting is empty" (Isaiah 16:6). The prophet's lamentation over Moab's pride reflects a deep sorrow for the spiritual blindness and impending judgment that pride brings. 2. Jesus’ Teachings on Humility: Jesus Christ, in His earthly ministry, often addressed the issue of pride, particularly among the religious leaders of His time. In the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, Jesus highlights the danger of self-righteous pride and the virtue of humility. The Pharisee's prideful prayer is contrasted with the tax collector's humble plea for mercy, illustrating the mournful state of those who are blinded by their own self-importance (Luke 18:9-14). 3. Apostolic Warnings and Grief: The apostles, too, expressed grief over pride within the early church. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often warned against pride and its divisive effects. In 1 Corinthians 5:2, Paul rebukes the Corinthian church for their prideful tolerance of sin, saying, "And you are proud! Shouldn’t you rather have been stricken with grief and removed from your fellowship the man who did this?" . Here, Paul mourns over their prideful attitude, urging them to adopt a posture of humility and repentance. 4. James on God’s Opposition to the Proud: James, the brother of Jesus, provides a stark reminder of the spiritual consequences of pride. He writes, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble'" (James 4:6). The saints, understanding this divine principle, mourn over pride in others, knowing that it places individuals in opposition to God’s grace. The Saints’ Response to Pride: The saints, throughout biblical history and in the teachings of the New Testament, are called to mourn over pride in others because it signifies a heart turned away from God. This mourning is not merely an emotional response but a call to intercession and action. The saints are urged to pray for those ensnared by pride, to gently correct and restore them in a spirit of humility, and to model the humility of Christ in their own lives. The mourning over pride is rooted in a deep love for others and a desire for their reconciliation with God. It reflects an understanding of the destructive nature of pride and a commitment to fostering a community characterized by humility, grace, and truth. Torrey's Topical Textbook Jeremiah 13:17But if you will not hear it, my soul shall weep in secret places for your pride; and my eye shall weep sore, and run down with tears, because the LORD's flock is carried away captive. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Blessed are they that Mourn On a Holy Martyr's Day Sermon on a Martyr's Day 2 Cor. xii. 16-18 Fenelon -- the Saints Converse with God Jeremiah, a Lesson for the Disappointed. Evidences of Regeneration. The Praise of Men. Ebenezer! Satan Considering the Saints 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 |