Topical Encyclopedia The theme of pride leading to debasement is a recurring motif throughout the Bible, serving as a cautionary principle against the dangers of arrogance and self-exaltation. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, illustrating the moral and spiritual consequences of pride.Old Testament Foundations The Book of Proverbs frequently addresses the peril of pride. Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse succinctly captures the inevitable downfall that follows pride, emphasizing the moral order established by God. Similarly, Proverbs 11:2 declares, "When pride comes, disgrace follows, but with humility comes wisdom." Here, the contrast between pride and humility is highlighted, with wisdom being the reward for the humble. The account of King Nebuchadnezzar in the Book of Daniel serves as a vivid illustration of this principle. Nebuchadnezzar, in his pride, boasted about his achievements and the grandeur of Babylon. As a result, God humbled him by driving him away from human society to live like an animal until he acknowledged God's sovereignty (Daniel 4:28-37). This narrative underscores the divine response to human arrogance and the restoration that follows genuine humility. New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, the theme continues with teachings from Jesus and the apostles. Jesus warns against the dangers of pride in the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. The Pharisee, in his self-righteousness, exalts himself, while the tax collector humbly seeks God's mercy. Jesus concludes, "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 18:14). The apostle Paul also addresses the issue of pride in his epistles. 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." Paul emphasizes the importance of humility and the recognition of one's dependence on God's grace. Theological Implications Theologically, pride is often seen as the root of sin, as it involves placing oneself above God and others. This is evident in the fall of Lucifer, who, according to Christian tradition, was cast out of heaven due to his pride and desire to be like God (Isaiah 14:12-15). Pride disrupts the intended order of creation, leading to separation from God and others. The biblical narrative consistently portrays humility as the antidote to pride. Humility aligns individuals with God's will, fostering a spirit of obedience and reverence. James 4:6 reinforces this by stating, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" Practical Application For believers, the biblical teaching that pride is followed by debasement serves as a call to cultivate humility in all aspects of life. It encourages self-examination and a reliance on God's wisdom rather than personal understanding. By recognizing the dangers of pride and embracing humility, individuals can align themselves with God's purposes and experience His grace and exaltation. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 29:23A man's pride shall bring him low: but honor shall uphold the humble in spirit. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 28:3 Library Jeremiah and Deuteronomy. (Chs. vii, viii. 8, xi. ) Nineteenth Sunday after Trinity Duty to New and Old Man. Index of Subjects. The Princesses of the Comneni Tendencies Toward a Manifestation of the Unity of the American ... The Bible and the French Revolution. Acts XVII The Bible and the French Revolution Paragraphs from Notable Speeches "The Earth was Invisible and Unfinished. " 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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