Topical Encyclopedia Self-righteousness is a state of being in which an individual considers themselves morally superior to others, often characterized by an excessive confidence in one's own righteousness and a lack of humility. This attitude is frequently condemned in the Bible, as it stands in stark contrast to the humility and repentance that God desires from His followers.Biblical Condemnation of Self-Righteousness The Bible consistently warns against self-righteousness, emphasizing that it is detestable in the sight of God. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus addresses this issue directly in the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, prays, "God, I thank You that I am not like the other men—swindlers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector" (Luke 18:11). This self-congratulatory attitude is contrasted with the tax collector's humble plea for mercy. Jesus concludes, "I tell you, this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 18:14). Old Testament Insights The Old Testament also speaks against self-righteousness. In the book of Isaiah, God rebukes those who are "holier than thou," stating, "These are smoke in My nostrils, a fire that burns all day long" (Isaiah 65:5). This imagery underscores the offensiveness of self-righteousness to God, likening it to an irritating and persistent smoke. The Danger of Self-Deception Self-righteousness often leads to self-deception, where individuals fail to recognize their own sinfulness. Proverbs warns, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death" (Proverbs 14:12). This verse highlights the peril of relying on one's own judgment and moral compass rather than seeking God's truth and guidance. New Testament Teachings The New Testament further elaborates on the dangers of self-righteousness. In Romans, the Apostle Paul writes, "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" (Romans 12:3). This exhortation calls believers to a humble and realistic assessment of themselves, recognizing that righteousness comes from God alone. The Example of Jesus Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example of humility and righteousness. Philippians 2:6-8 describes how Jesus, "being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." This passage illustrates the profound humility of Christ, who, despite His divine nature, chose to serve and sacrifice for humanity. Conclusion The Bible's teachings on self-righteousness serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of humility and reliance on God's grace. Believers are called to reject self-righteous attitudes and to seek a heart that is contrite and dependent on the righteousness that comes through faith in Jesus Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 65:5Which say, Stand by yourself, come not near to me; for I am holier than you. These are a smoke in my nose, a fire that burns all the day. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Necessity of Contemplating the Judgment-Seat of God, in Order to ... A Message from God for Thee Sanctification. Reform For Godly Sorrow Worketh Repentance to Salvation, not to be ... Be Ye Therefore Perfect, Even as Your Father which is in Heaven is ... The Method of Grace About Adam Clarke Election and Holiness A Leap Year Sermon * 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 |
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