Topical Encyclopedia Self-complacency, often understood as a sense of smug satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements, is a condition that can lead to spiritual stagnation and moral blindness. The Bible warns against the dangers of self-complacency, as it can foster a false sense of security and hinder one's relationship with God.Biblical Warnings Against Self-Complacency The Scriptures provide numerous examples and teachings that caution against self-complacency. In the book of Proverbs, wisdom literature frequently contrasts the wise with the foolish, highlighting the perils of self-satisfaction. Proverbs 1:32 states, "For the waywardness of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them." This verse underscores the destructive nature of complacency, equating it with folly that leads to ruin. In the New Testament, Jesus addresses the issue of self-complacency in His messages to the churches in Revelation. To the church in Laodicea, He delivers a stern rebuke: "So because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to vomit you out of My mouth" (Revelation 3:16). The Laodiceans' self-satisfaction in their material wealth and perceived spiritual state blinded them to their true condition, which was wretched and in need of repentance. Parables and Teachings of Jesus Jesus' parables often illustrate the dangers of self-complacency. The Parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12:16-21 tells of a man who, satisfied with his abundant harvest, plans to build larger barns to store his goods, saying to himself, "You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take it easy; eat, drink, and be merry." However, God calls him a fool, for his life is demanded of him that very night, and he is unprepared for eternity. This parable serves as a stark reminder that self-complacency can lead to neglect of one's spiritual responsibilities and readiness for God's judgment. The Call to Vigilance and Humility The Bible calls believers to a life of vigilance and humility, recognizing their dependence on God. In 1 Corinthians 10:12 , Paul warns, "So the one who thinks he is standing firm should be careful not to fall." This admonition encourages believers to remain watchful and humble, acknowledging that self-complacency can lead to spiritual downfall. James 4:6 further emphasizes the importance of humility, stating, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" Humility is presented as the antidote to self-complacency, aligning believers with God's grace and favor. Examples from the Old Testament The Old Testament also provides examples of individuals and nations who fell into self-complacency. The Israelites, during periods of prosperity, often turned away from God, becoming complacent in their spiritual duties. In Deuteronomy 8:11-14 , Moses warns the Israelites not to forget the Lord when they have eaten and are satisfied, cautioning them against the pride that can arise from self-satisfaction. King Uzziah's reign is another example. Initially, he sought the Lord and prospered, but his success led to pride and complacency, resulting in his downfall (2 Chronicles 26:16). His account serves as a cautionary tale of how self-complacency can lead to a departure from God's ways. Conclusion The Bible consistently warns against the dangers of self-complacency, urging believers to remain vigilant, humble, and dependent on God. Through parables, teachings, and historical examples, Scripture highlights the spiritual perils of self-satisfaction and the importance of maintaining a posture of humility and readiness before the Lord. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The quality of being self-complacent.Library Letter xvii. --Confidence in God. Letter xiii. --Peace and Confidence. The Thirty-Second Chapter: Self-Denial and the Renunciation of ... Satisfied from Self Letter xx. Self-Examination. Showing How Some Men Live Contrary to These Exercises Letter xv. --Perfect Detachment. The First Beatitude August 12. "Not Ourselves, but Christ Jesus" (ii. Cor. Iv. 5). Lorimer -- the Fall of Satan Thesaurus Self-complacency (1 Occurrence)Self-complacency. Self-avenger, Self-complacency. Self-conceit . Noah Webster's Dictionary ... Multi-Version Concordance Self-complacency (1 Occurrence). ... /s/self-complacency.htm - 6k Removing (24 Occurrences) Mourning (85 Occurrences) Self-conceit (1 Occurrence) Self-avenger (2 Occurrences) Laban (52 Occurrences) Instead (139 Occurrences) Shame (412 Occurrences) Salvation (386 Occurrences) Filled (336 Occurrences) Resources Why did Jesus speak so strongly against lukewarm faith? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about self-gratification / self-pleasure? | GotQuestions.org What is the god of self? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Self-complacency (1 Occurrence)1 Corinthians 5:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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