Topical Encyclopedia Pride, often considered the original sin, is a condition of the heart that exalts oneself above others and, ultimately, above God. It is a sin that leads to downfall and destruction, as it blinds individuals to their own faults and the sovereignty of God. The Bible consistently warns against pride and illustrates the consequences for those who harbor it.Biblical Warnings and Consequences The Scriptures are replete with admonitions against pride and the inevitable subjugation of those who indulge in it. Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse succinctly captures the fate of the proud, indicating that their arrogance will lead to their downfall. In the book of Isaiah, the prophet speaks against the pride of the people and their leaders. Isaiah 2:12 declares, "For the day of the LORD of Hosts will come against all the proud and lofty, against all that is exalted—it will be humbled." This passage underscores the certainty of divine judgment against pride, emphasizing that God Himself will act to humble those who elevate themselves. Historical Examples The Bible provides numerous historical examples of individuals and nations subdued due to their pride. One of the most notable is King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. In Daniel 4:30-31 , Nebuchadnezzar boasts of his achievements, saying, "Is this not Babylon the Great, which I myself have built by the might of my power and for the glory of my majesty?" Immediately, a voice from heaven pronounces his judgment, and he is driven away from men to live as a beast until he acknowledges God's sovereignty. Similarly, the account of Pharaoh in the book of Exodus illustrates the subjugation of pride. Pharaoh's refusal to humble himself before God led to the plagues upon Egypt and the eventual destruction of his army in the Red Sea (Exodus 14:28). Divine Opposition The New Testament reiterates the theme of divine opposition to pride. James 4:6 states, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" This verse highlights the active resistance God has against the proud, contrasting it with the grace extended to those who are humble. The Apostle Peter echoes this sentiment in 1 Peter 5:5 , urging believers to "clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.'" The repetition of this principle in the New Testament underscores its importance and the certainty of God's opposition to pride. Eternal Perspective The ultimate subjugation of pride is seen in the eschatological vision of the Bible, where every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:10-11). This future reality serves as a sobering reminder that all human pride will be brought low before the majesty of God. In conclusion, the Bible consistently teaches that pride leads to downfall and that those who are guilty of it will be subdued. Through historical examples, divine warnings, and eschatological promises, Scripture makes clear that God will not tolerate pride and will act to humble those who exalt themselves. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 18:11Now I know that the LORD is greater than all gods: for in the thing wherein they dealt proudly he was above them. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 13:11 Library They who have Committed a "Sin unto Death" are not to be Abandoned ... Acts ii. 37 A Doomed People Hymn for those who Fast Refutation of the Calumnies by which this Doctrine is Always ... The Knowledge of God Conspicuous in the Creation, and Continual ... Thoughts Upon Worldly Riches. Sect. I. The Uproar in Ephesus. The Debt of Israel The Observation of the Birth of Christ, the Duty of all Christians ... Resources Should a Christian have swag / swagger? | GotQuestions.orgWhy are there so many tragedies among celebrities? | GotQuestions.org How can an elder come under the same condemnation as the devil (1 Timothy 3:6)? | 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 |