Topical Bible: Wheat of Self-Rigteousness

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The concept of the "Wheat of Self-Righteousness" is not a direct biblical term but rather a metaphorical expression used to describe the spiritual condition of self-righteousness, often contrasted with true righteousness that comes from faith in God. This metaphor draws on the agricultural imagery prevalent in the Bible, where wheat often symbolizes genuine faith and spiritual fruitfulness, while self-righteousness is seen as a counterfeit or hollow form of righteousness.

Biblical Imagery of Wheat

In Scripture, wheat is frequently used as a symbol of God's provision and blessing. It represents the fruitful harvest that results from a life lived in obedience to God. For instance, in the parable of the wheat and the tares (Matthew 13:24-30), Jesus describes the kingdom of heaven as a field where good wheat is sown, but an enemy sows tares among the wheat. The wheat represents the children of the kingdom, while the tares symbolize the children of the evil one. This parable underscores the idea that true righteousness is discernible and will ultimately be separated from false righteousness at the time of harvest.

Self-Righteousness in the Bible

Self-righteousness is depicted in the Bible as a reliance on one's own perceived moral superiority or adherence to the law, rather than on God's grace and mercy. The Pharisees are often cited as examples of self-righteousness. In Luke 18:9-14 , Jesus tells the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, where the Pharisee boasts of his own righteousness, while the tax collector humbly asks for God's mercy. Jesus concludes, "I tell you, this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 18:14).

The Danger of Self-Righteousness

The "Wheat of Self-Righteousness" can be understood as the deceptive appearance of spiritual fruitfulness that lacks the substance of true faith. Isaiah 64:6 states, "All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags." This verse highlights the inadequacy of self-righteous deeds in achieving true righteousness before God. The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in Philippians 3:9 , where he desires to "be found in Him, not having my own righteousness from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness from God on the basis of faith."

True Righteousness Through Faith

True righteousness, as opposed to self-righteousness, is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 3:22 affirms, "And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe." This righteousness is not earned by human effort but is imputed to believers by grace through faith. The Apostle Paul emphasizes this in Ephesians 2:8-9 : "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast."

Conclusion

The metaphor of the "Wheat of Self-Righteousness" serves as a caution against the dangers of relying on one's own efforts to achieve righteousness. It calls believers to examine their hearts and to seek the true righteousness that comes from a humble and genuine faith in Jesus Christ.

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Jeremiah 12:13
They have sown wheat, but shall reap thorns: they have put themselves to pain, but shall not profit: and they shall be ashamed of your revenues because of the fierce anger of the LORD.
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