Topical Bible: Character of the Wicked: Selfish

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The Bible frequently addresses the character of the wicked, often highlighting selfishness as a defining trait. Selfishness, in biblical terms, is the prioritization of one's own desires and needs above those of others, often leading to actions that are contrary to God's commandments and the well-being of the community.

Biblical Descriptions of Selfishness

The Scriptures provide numerous examples and warnings about the dangers of selfishness. In the Book of Proverbs, selfishness is often linked with folly and wickedness. Proverbs 18:1 states, "He who isolates himself pursues selfish desires; he rebels against all sound judgment." This verse illustrates how selfishness leads individuals to isolate themselves, rejecting wise counsel and community.

The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently admonishes believers to avoid selfishness. In Philippians 2:3 , he writes, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." Here, Paul contrasts selfish ambition with humility, urging Christians to prioritize the needs of others.

Consequences of Selfishness

The Bible warns that selfishness leads to destructive outcomes. James 3:16 notes, "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice." This passage highlights the chaos and moral decay that result from selfish behavior, emphasizing that such attitudes are incompatible with a life led by the Spirit.

Selfishness is also depicted as a barrier to spiritual growth and community harmony. In Galatians 5:19-21 , Paul lists the "acts of the flesh," which include selfish ambition, and warns that those who practice such things "will not inherit the kingdom of God." This serves as a stark reminder of the spiritual consequences of living a self-centered life.

Examples of Selfishness in Scripture

Several biblical narratives illustrate the destructive nature of selfishness. The account of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4 demonstrates how selfish desires can lead to sin and violence. Cain's selfishness and jealousy over God's favor towards Abel culminate in the first murder, highlighting the severe consequences of unchecked selfishness.

Another example is found in the parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21. The rich man, focused solely on accumulating wealth for himself, neglects to consider his mortality and the needs of others. Jesus uses this parable to teach that selfishness and materialism are futile in the face of God's eternal kingdom.

The Antithesis of Selfishness: Love and Sacrifice

In contrast to the selfishness of the wicked, the Bible calls believers to a life of love and self-sacrifice. Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example of selflessness. In Mark 10:45 , Jesus declares, "For even 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 the Christian call to serve others, putting their needs above one's own.

The Apostle John further emphasizes this in 1 John 3:16-17 : "By this we know what love is: Jesus laid down His life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need but withholds compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him?" Here, John challenges believers to demonstrate their faith through acts of selfless love and generosity.

Conclusion

The Bible consistently portrays selfishness as a hallmark of the wicked, leading to spiritual and communal harm. In contrast, the Christian life is marked by selflessness, love, and service, reflecting the character of Christ. Through the teachings and examples found in Scripture, believers are called to reject selfishness and embrace a life that honors God and serves others.

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2 Timothy 3:2
For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
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Library

The Wicked Heart Set to do Evil.
... are sought in the same spirit; the moral character remains unchanged ... Now a man may
be, as selfish in praying as in stealing, and even far more wicked: for be ...
/.../finney/sermons on gospel themes/viii the wicked heart set.htm

Moral Depravity.
... that represent all the unregenerate as possessing one common wicked heart or character. ...
acceptable to God, while in the exercise of a wicked or selfish heart ...
/.../finney/systematic theology/lecture xxii moral depravity.htm

Evidences of Regeneration.
... This is strictly constitutional, and has therefore no moral character. I have known
that very wicked men, and men ... of course, the state of the will was selfish. ...
/.../finney/systematic theology/lecture xxix evidences of regeneration.htm

Do are Then Make Void the Law through Faith? God Forbid; Yea, we ...
... gospel reveals new features in God's character, not known ... Hence the wicked are always
trying to appear disinterested ... Let the selfish individual who has any heart ...
/.../finney/lectures to professing christians/do are then make void.htm

Chapter six
... do, I am under condemnation for being one of the most wicked, selfish, useless
creatures ... of unreserve that added to the attractiveness of her whole character. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/sheldon/in his steps/chapter six.htm

The People among whom we Labour.
... However wicked his conduct may be, as a worshipper of Allah ... I could obtain an insight
into their character, a reverent ... Islam to their ambitious and selfish views ...
/.../chapter xxviii the people among.htm

Royal Murderers
... There are three types of character in this story, all bad ... I. We have to look at the
weakly wicked Ahab. His wish for Naboth's vineyard was a mere selfish whim. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture f/royal murderers.htm

Of the Character of the Unregenerate.
... that are conscious of a mean selfish temper, and ... of God, keepeth himself, and that
wicked one toucheth ... essential branch of every good man's character; for he ...
/.../doddridge/practical discourses on regeneration/discourse i of the character.htm

A Reasonable Service
... "He is a God of mercy." This is his character. "Let the wicked forsake his ... They
certainly could not have lived selfish, sinful lives again, and I am sure that ...
//christianbookshelf.org/chapman/and judas iscariot/a reasonable service.htm

The Approbation of Goodness is not the Love of It.
... Why is it, that when the character of Christ bows your intellect ... human heart is,
as the prophet affirms, desperately wicked, desperately selfish. ...
/.../shedd/sermons to the natural man/the approbation of goodness is.htm