Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Vanity, in the biblical sense, often refers to the emptiness or futility of human endeavors apart from God. It is characterized by pride, self-absorption, and a focus on temporal rather than eternal matters. The Bible frequently warns against vanity, highlighting its deceptive nature and the spiritual danger it poses. Biblical Warnings Against Vanity The Scriptures provide numerous admonitions against vanity, urging believers to seek wisdom and humility instead. In Ecclesiastes, Solomon reflects on the futility of worldly pursuits, declaring, "Vanity of vanities, says the Teacher, vanity of vanities! Everything is vanity" (Ecclesiastes 1:2). This underscores the transient nature of earthly achievements and the importance of focusing on God’s eternal purposes. Saints and the Call to Avoid Vanity Saints, or believers in Christ, are called to live lives that reflect God's glory rather than their own. The Apostle Paul advises the church in Philippi, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves" (Philippians 2:3). This instruction emphasizes the need to avoid vanity by prioritizing humility and service to others. Avoiding Those Given to Vanity The Bible also counsels believers to be discerning in their associations, particularly avoiding those who are consumed by vanity. In Proverbs, the wisdom literature advises, "Do not be envious of evil men, nor desire to be with them; for their hearts devise violence, and their lips talk of trouble" (Proverbs 24:1-2). This passage warns against the influence of those whose lives are marked by vanity and wickedness. New Testament Guidance The New Testament continues this theme, with Paul instructing the Corinthians, "Do not be deceived: 'Bad company corrupts good character'" (1 Corinthians 15:33). This serves as a reminder that associating with those given to vanity can lead believers astray, corrupting their character and diverting them from their spiritual path. Practical Application for Believers Believers are encouraged to cultivate relationships that foster spiritual growth and to seek the company of those who exemplify godly virtues. The Apostle Peter exhorts the faithful, "Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble'" (1 Peter 5:5). By surrounding themselves with humble and godly individuals, saints can avoid the pitfalls of vanity and remain steadfast in their faith. Conclusion While the Bible does not explicitly state a conclusion on the matter, the consistent message throughout Scripture is clear: vanity is a spiritual danger that saints must diligently avoid. By heeding biblical warnings and seeking the company of the humble and wise, believers can protect themselves from the emptiness of vanity and live lives that honor God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 26:4I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library A Call to Holy Living Divine and Worldly Conformity Of Certain Outward Temptations and Appearances of Satan. Of the ... The Great Debt She Owed to Our Lord for his Mercy to Her. She ... An Appendix to the Beatitudes Letter xiv. Dress. Good Days 1 Timothy v. 15-Nov Patrick, the Apostle of the Irish. Are You Prepared to Die? Resources What does it mean that we have eternity in our hearts (Ecclesiastes 3:11)? | GotQuestions.orgHow should a Christian view bodybuilding / weightlifting? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about narcissism? | GotQuestions.org Vanity: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Vanity: A Consequence of the Fall Vanity: All Earthly Things Are Vanity: All should Know and Acknowledge Vanity: Alms Giving Without Charity Is Vanity: Almsgiving Without Love Is Vanity: Childhood and Youth Are Vanity: Evil People: Allure Others Through the Words of Vanity: Evil People: Especially Characterized By Vanity: Evil People: Judicially Given up To Vanity: Evil People: Regard God's Service As Vanity: Evil People: Though Full of, Affect to be Wise Vanity: Faith Without Works Is Vanity: Following Those Given To, Leads to Poverty Vanity: Fools Follow Those Given To Vanity: Man at his Best Estate Is Vanity: Man, at his Best Estate, Is Vanity: Man's own Righteousness Is Vanity: Mere External Religion Is Vanity: Riches Gotten by Falsehood Are Vanity: Saints Hate the Thoughts of Vanity: Saints: Avoid Those Given To Vanity: Saints: Hate the Thoughts of Vanity: Saints: Pray to be Kept From Vanity: The Conduct of the Ungodly Is Vanity: The Religion of Hypocrites Is Vanity: The Thoughts of Man Are Vanity: The Wicked: Allure Others by Words of Vanity: The Wicked: Count God's Service As Vanity: The Wicked: Especially Characterised By Vanity: The Wicked: Judicially Given up To Vanity: The Wicked: Though Full of, Affect to be Wise Vanity: The Wicked: Walk After Vanity: The Worship of the Wicked Is Vanity: They Who Trust In, Rewarded With Vanity: Treasures of Wickedness Are Vanity: Wealth Gotten By, Diminishes Vanity: Worldly Possessions Are Related Terms |
    |