Topical Encyclopedia Selfishness, defined as the excessive concern for oneself at the expense of others, stands in stark contrast to the biblical ideal of the communion of saints. The communion of saints refers to the spiritual solidarity and fellowship shared among believers, united in Christ. This unity is characterized by mutual love, support, and the sharing of spiritual and material resources, as exemplified in the early church.Biblical Foundations The New Testament provides a clear depiction of the early Christian community's commitment to selflessness and communal living. Acts 2:44-45 states, "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need." This passage highlights the selfless nature of the early church, where personal possessions were willingly shared to meet the needs of others. The Apostle Paul further emphasizes the importance of selflessness in the body of Christ. In Philippians 2:3-4 , he exhorts believers, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." This instruction underscores the call to prioritize the well-being of others, reflecting the selfless love of Christ. The Example of Christ Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate model of selflessness. His incarnation, ministry, and sacrificial death exemplify the antithesis of selfishness. Philippians 2:5-8 describes Christ's humility and self-emptying: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of 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." Christ's self-giving love is the foundation for the communion of saints, calling believers to emulate His example by serving one another in love and humility. Selfishness as a Hindrance Selfishness disrupts the unity and fellowship intended for the body of Christ. It breeds division, jealousy, and strife, contrary to the harmony and peace that should characterize the church. James 3:16 warns, "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice." Such attitudes undermine the witness of the church and hinder its mission. The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of selfishness in the Corinthian church, where divisions and self-centered behavior were prevalent. In 1 Corinthians 10:24 , he instructs, "No one should seek his own good, but the good of others." This directive calls believers to forsake selfish desires and pursue the common good, fostering unity and love within the community. Practical Implications The call to selflessness within the communion of saints has practical implications for the life of the church. Believers are encouraged to exercise their spiritual gifts for the edification of the body, as stated in 1 Peter 4:10 : "As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another." This service-oriented mindset promotes a culture of giving and mutual support. Furthermore, the practice of hospitality, generosity, and bearing one another's burdens are tangible expressions of selflessness that strengthen the bonds of fellowship. Galatians 6:2 exhorts, "Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." By prioritizing the needs of others, believers reflect the love of Christ and maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3). In summary, selfishness is fundamentally incompatible with the communion of saints. The biblical call to selflessness, modeled by Christ and practiced by the early church, remains a vital aspect of Christian community and witness. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 12:4,5For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 Library Love in the Blessed Ones. Behold all Ye that Kindle a Fire, that Compass Yourselves About ... Covenant Duties. Attributes of Love. Do are Then Make Void the Law through Faith? God Forbid; Yea, we ... Appendix V in the Directory. Letter ix. Meditation. Faith and Unbelief. Preparation for Revival Sanctification. Resources What does the Bible say about abuse? | GotQuestions.orgIs God a moral monster? | GotQuestions.org Sinful Character Traits ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Selfishness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Selfishness: All Men Addicted To Selfishness: Characteristic of the Last Days Selfishness: Contrary to the Law of God Selfishness: Especially Forbidden to Saints Selfishness: Exhibited in Being Lovers of Ourselves Selfishness: Exhibited in Living to Ourselves Selfishness: Exhibited in Neglect of the Poor Selfishness: Exhibited in Performing Duty for Reward Selfishness: Exhibited in Pleasing Ourselves Selfishness: Exhibited in Seeking After Gain Selfishness: Exhibited in Seeking Our Own Selfishness: Exhibited in Seeking Undue Precedence Selfishness: Exhibited in Serving God for Reward Selfishness: General Scriptures Concerning Selfishness: Inconsistent With Christian Love Selfishness: Inconsistent With Communion of Saints Selfishness: Ministers should be Devoid of Selfishness: Saints Falsely Accused of Selfishness: The Example of Christ Condemns Selfishness: The Love of Christ should Constrain Us to Avoid Related Terms |
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