Topical Encyclopedia Self-righteousness, a condition of the heart where an individual considers themselves morally superior or more virtuous than others, is consistently depicted in the Bible as detestable to God. This attitude is often characterized by a reliance on one's own perceived righteousness rather than on God's grace and mercy. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and teachings that highlight the dangers and spiritual pitfalls of self-righteousness.Biblical Examples and Teachings 1. Pharisees and Religious Leaders: The Gospels frequently illustrate the self-righteousness of the Pharisees and other religious leaders of Jesus' time. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus tells the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector to expose the folly of self-righteousness. The Pharisee, standing by himself, prays, "God, I thank You that I am not like other men—swindlers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector" (Luke 18:11). In contrast, the tax collector humbly asks for God's mercy, and Jesus declares him justified rather than the Pharisee (Luke 18:14). 2. Isaiah's Rebuke: The prophet Isaiah condemns the self-righteousness of the people of Israel, who believed their religious rituals and sacrifices were sufficient to earn God's favor. Isaiah 64:6 states, "All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind, our sins sweep us away" . This passage underscores the futility of self-righteousness in the eyes of God. 3. Paul's Writings: The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Romans, addresses the issue of self-righteousness among both Jews and Gentiles. He writes, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23), emphasizing that no one can claim righteousness apart from faith in Jesus Christ. Paul further explains that righteousness comes through faith, not by works, so that no one can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). 4. Jesus' Teachings: In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warns against practicing righteousness before others to be seen by them, as the hypocrites do (Matthew 6:1). He teaches that true righteousness is a matter of the heart and is seen by God, who rewards what is done in secret. Theological Implications Self-righteousness is fundamentally opposed to the Gospel message, which proclaims that salvation is a gift from God, not a result of human effort or moral superiority. It leads to pride, judgmental attitudes, and a lack of compassion for others, all of which are contrary to the character of Christ. The Bible consistently calls believers to humility, repentance, and a reliance on God's grace rather than their own perceived righteousness. Practical Considerations Believers are encouraged to examine their hearts and motives, seeking to cultivate a spirit of humility and dependence on God. The recognition of one's own sinfulness and need for God's mercy is essential in avoiding the trap of self-righteousness. Christians are called to love and serve others, reflecting the grace they have received, and to remember that any righteousness they possess is imputed through faith in Christ alone. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 16:15And he said to them, You are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knows your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Believe Just Now Healing for the Wounded Insensibility The Laodicean State of Christendom. On the Feast of a Holy Bishop Grace Triumphant Effects of Messiah's Appearance The Two Sons. The Second Series of Parables - the Two Parables of Him who is ... The Call of Matthew Resources What is the breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:14)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the fruit of righteousness in Philippians 1:11? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about self-worth? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Self-Righteousness is Boastful Self-Righteousness is Vain Because Our Righteousness Is: But External Self-Righteousness is Vain Because Our Righteousness Is: But Partial Self-Righteousness is Vain Because Our Righteousness Is: Ineffectual for Salvation Self-Righteousness is Vain Because Our Righteousness Is: No Better than Filthy Rags Self-Righteousness is Vain Because Our Righteousness Is: Unprofitable Self-Righteousness: Church of Laodicea Self-Righteousness: Denunciation Against Self-Righteousness: General Scriptures Concerning Self-Righteousness: Hateful to God Self-Righteousness: Illustrated Self-Righteousness: Man is Prone To Self-Righteousness: Saints Renounce Self-Righteousness: The Laodicean Congregation Self-Righteousness: They Who are Given to are Abominable Before God Self-Righteousness: They Who are Given to are Pure in Their own Eyes Self-Righteousness: They Who are Given to Audaciously Approach God Self-Righteousness: They Who are Given to Condemn Others Self-Righteousness: They Who are Given to Consider Their own Way Right Self-Righteousness: They Who are Given to Despise Others Self-Righteousness: They Who are Given to Proclaim Their own Goodness Self-Righteousness: They Who are Given to Reject the Righteousness of God Self-Righteousness: They Who are Given to Seek to Justify Themselves Self-Righteousness: They Who are Given to Seek to Justify Themselves Before Men Self-Righteousness: Warning Against Supererogation: The Doctrine of Excessive and Meritorious Righteousness Related Terms |
    |