Definition and Meaning:
Gloating is the act of taking pleasure in someone else's misfortune or downfall. It is often characterized by a sense of superiority or malicious satisfaction. In the biblical context, gloating is viewed negatively, as it reflects a heart that lacks compassion and humility.

Biblical References:
The Bible addresses the issue of gloating in several passages, warning against the pride and malice that accompany it. One of the most direct references is found in the book of Obadiah, where the Edomites are condemned for gloating over the destruction of Jerusalem. Obadiah 1:12 states, "Do not gloat over your brother in the day of his calamity, nor rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their destruction, nor boastfully mock in the day of distress."

Proverbs also speaks to the dangers of gloating. Proverbs 24:17-18 advises, "Do not gloat when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart rejoice when he stumbles, or the LORD will see and disapprove, and turn His wrath away from him." This passage highlights the importance of maintaining a humble and compassionate heart, even towards one's enemies.

Theological Implications:
Gloating is often linked to pride, which is considered a significant sin in Christian theology. Pride leads individuals to elevate themselves above others, contrary to the biblical call to love one's neighbor as oneself (Mark 12:31). Gloating, therefore, is not just a social faux pas but a spiritual issue that reveals a heart not aligned with God's will.

The Bible teaches that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). Gloating, as an expression of pride, is thus contrary to the character of God and the example set by Jesus Christ, who demonstrated humility and compassion even towards those who opposed Him.

Moral and Ethical Considerations:
From a moral standpoint, gloating is seen as an expression of a lack of empathy and love. Christians are called to rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep (Romans 12:15). This command underscores the importance of empathy and solidarity with others, regardless of their circumstances.

Ethically, gloating can lead to further division and conflict. It can exacerbate tensions and create an environment of hostility rather than reconciliation. The Bible encourages believers to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9) and to seek the well-being of others, even those who may be considered adversaries.

Practical Application:
In practical terms, Christians are encouraged to examine their hearts and attitudes towards others, especially in times of conflict or competition. Instead of gloating, believers are called to pray for those who are struggling and to offer support and encouragement. This reflects the love of Christ and serves as a witness to the transformative power of the Gospel.

By resisting the temptation to gloat, Christians can cultivate a spirit of humility and grace, aligning themselves more closely with the teachings of Scripture and the example of Jesus.

The Destroyer Destroyed
... No doubt he gloats over our sicknesses; he rejoices himself in our sin; but death
is to him a theme of as much delight as he can be capable of in his eternal ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 4 1858/the destroyer destroyed.htm

Memory, Hope, and Effort
... For all these abuses"the memory that gloats upon sin; the memory that is proud of
success; the memory that is despondent because of failures; the memory that ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture j/memory hope and effort.htm

Disclosure of the Monstrous Tenets of the Manich??ans.
... You keep hold of one who gloats with delight over highly-seasoned vegetables, unable
to keep possession of himself; while you shut out one who, to satisfy ...
/.../chapter 16 name of the 2.htm

A Blast of the Trumpet against False Peace
... righteous sentence. Surely, the devil gloats over men of this kind. A Calvinist
I am, but John Calvin never taught immoral doctrine. A ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 6 1860/a blast of the trumpet.htm

Gloats (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Gloats (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 17:5 Whoever makes
sport of the poor puts shame on his Maker; and he who ...
/g/gloats.htm - 6k

Gloating (1 Occurrence)

/g/gloating.htm - 6k

Globes (4 Occurrences)

/g/globes.htm - 7k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus