Topical Encyclopedia Selfishness, defined as the excessive or exclusive concern with oneself at the expense of others, is a trait consistently condemned throughout the Scriptures. The life and teachings of Jesus Christ provide a profound counterexample to selfishness, emphasizing selflessness, sacrifice, and love for others.Christ's Selflessness in Life and Ministry The Gospels present Jesus as the epitome of selflessness. In Philippians 2:5-7 , Paul exhorts believers to adopt the mindset of Christ, who "emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness." This passage highlights the humility and self-denial of Jesus, who, though divine, chose to live as a servant to humanity. Throughout His ministry, Jesus consistently placed the needs of others above His own. In Matthew 20:28 , He declares, "The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." This statement encapsulates His mission of service and sacrifice, contrasting sharply with the self-centeredness that characterizes human nature. Teachings Against Selfishness Jesus' teachings further condemn selfishness and promote a life of self-giving love. In the Sermon on the Mount, He instructs His followers to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44), urging them to transcend natural inclinations toward self-preservation and retaliation. Moreover, in Luke 9:23 , Jesus calls His disciples to "deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow Me." This call to self-denial is a direct challenge to selfishness, inviting believers to embrace a life of sacrifice and commitment to God's will. Parables Illustrating Selflessness Jesus often used parables to illustrate the dangers of selfishness and the virtues of selflessness. The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) serves as a powerful narrative against self-centeredness. In this account, a Samaritan man goes out of his way to help a wounded stranger, demonstrating compassion and selflessness, while others pass by, absorbed in their own concerns. Similarly, the Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:16-21) warns against the folly of hoarding wealth for oneself. The rich man in the parable focuses solely on his own comfort and security, neglecting the needs of others and ultimately facing divine judgment. Christ's Ultimate Sacrifice The ultimate condemnation of selfishness is found in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In John 15:13 , Jesus states, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." His willing sacrifice on the cross is the supreme act of selflessness, offering redemption and reconciliation to humanity. In Romans 5:8 , Paul writes, "But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." This sacrificial love stands in stark opposition to the self-serving tendencies of the world, providing a model for believers to emulate. Conclusion The example of Christ serves as a powerful condemnation of selfishness, calling believers to a life marked by selflessness, service, and sacrificial love. Through His teachings, parables, and ultimate sacrifice, Jesus provides a clear and compelling standard for His followers to reject selfishness and embrace a life devoted to God and others. Torrey's Topical Textbook John 4:34Jesus said to them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 15:3 2 Corinthians 8:9 Library The Mind which was in Christ Jesus. Rev. George Wood. Persecution in the First Centuries Persecution in the First Centuries. Attributes of Selfishness. Index of Subjects. Men Often Highly Esteem what God Abhors. A Warning against Hypocrisy Woes on the Pharisees The Limits of Liberty Faith and Unbelief. Resources What does the Bible say about selfishness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit (Philippians 2:3)? | GotQuestions.org Is it wrong for parents to select the gender of their children, such as through Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)? | 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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