Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, reproof is a form of correction or admonition aimed at guiding individuals back to righteous behavior. Vain boasting, characterized by excessive pride and self-glorification, is frequently addressed in Scripture as a behavior warranting reproof. The Bible consistently warns against the dangers of pride and the folly of boasting in one's own achievements or possessions.Scriptural Basis The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that highlight the need for reproof in the face of vain boasting. Proverbs 27:2 advises, "Let another praise you, and not your own mouth—a stranger, and not your own lips." This verse underscores the importance of humility and the avoidance of self-praise, suggesting that recognition should come from others rather than oneself. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of boasting in several of his epistles. In 1 Corinthians 4:7, Paul challenges the Corinthian believers by asking, "For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?" Here, Paul reminds the believers that all they possess is a gift from God, and thus, there is no basis for boasting. James 4:16 further admonishes, "As it is, you boast in your proud intentions. All such boasting is evil." This passage highlights the sinful nature of boasting, particularly when it stems from arrogance and self-reliance rather than trust in God. Examples of Reproof The account of King Nebuchadnezzar in the Book of Daniel serves as a poignant example of divine reproof for vain boasting. In Daniel 4:30, Nebuchadnezzar boasts, "Is this not Babylon the Great, which I myself have built by my vast power and for the glory of my majesty?" As a result of his pride, God humbles him by driving him away from human society until he acknowledges God's sovereignty (Daniel 4:31-37). Similarly, the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector in Luke 18:9-14 illustrates the folly of self-righteous boasting. The Pharisee's prayer is filled with self-congratulation, while the tax collector humbly asks for God's mercy. Jesus concludes that the tax collector, not the Pharisee, is justified before God, emphasizing the value of humility over self-exaltation. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, vain boasting is seen as a manifestation of pride, which is often considered the root of many sins. Pride leads individuals to place their trust in themselves rather than in God, thereby disrupting their relationship with Him. Reproof, therefore, serves as a necessary corrective to redirect individuals towards humility and dependence on God. The Bible teaches that true boasting should be in the Lord and His works, not in human accomplishments. As Jeremiah 9:23-24 states, "Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, nor the strong man in his strength, nor the wealthy man in his riches. But let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD, who exercises loving devotion, justice, and righteousness on the earth." Practical Application In practical terms, believers are encouraged to cultivate a spirit of humility and gratitude, recognizing that all talents, achievements, and possessions are gifts from God. The practice of self-examination and accountability within the Christian community can help individuals remain vigilant against the temptation of vain boasting. By embracing reproof as a means of spiritual growth, believers can align themselves more closely with the character of Christ, who exemplified humility and servanthood. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 22:34And he said, I tell you, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that you shall thrice deny that you know me. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Of Abraham's Obedience and Faith, which were Proved by the ... Introduction. Matt. xiv. 13 Epistle Liv. To Cornelius, Concerning Fortunatus and Felicissimus ... The Cavils of the Pharisees Concerning Purification, and the ... 2 Thessalonians iii. 5-Mar The Pharisee and Publican The Revelation of John God's Controversy with Man. Rev. Charles Prest. Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility Resources What are the differences between Catholics and Protestants? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did Jesus mean when He said to not cast your pearls before swine (Matthew 7:6)? | GotQuestions.org What is doctrine? | GotQuestions.org Reproof: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Reproof of Those Who offend, a Warning to Others Reproof: A Proof of Faithful Friendship Reproof: Attention to a Proof of Prudence Reproof: Christ Gives, in Love Reproof: Contempt of, Leads to Remorse Reproof: Declared to Be: An Excellent Oil Reproof: Declared to Be: Better than Secret Love Reproof: Declared to Be: Better than the Praise of Fools Reproof: Declared to Be: More Profitable to Saints, than Stripes to a Fool Reproof: Despised by the Israelites Reproof: Despised by the Jewish Leaders Reproof: Despised by the People of Nazareth Reproof: Eventually Brings More Respect than Flattery Reproof: Faithfulness in a Prophet of Judah, of Jeroboam Reproof: Faithfulness in Amos, of the Israelites Reproof: Faithfulness in Azariah, of Asa Reproof: Faithfulness in Azariah, of Uzziah Reproof: Faithfulness in Daniel, of Belshazzar Reproof: Faithfulness in Daniel, of Nebuchadnezzar Reproof: Faithfulness in Elijah, of Ahab Reproof: Faithfulness in Elijah, of Ahaziah Reproof: Faithfulness in Elisha, of Gehazi Reproof: Faithfulness in Elisha, of Hazael Reproof: Faithfulness in Elisha, of Jehoram Reproof: Faithfulness in Elisha, of Jeroboam Reproof: Faithfulness in Ezra, of the Men of Judah and Benjamin Reproof: Faithfulness in Hanani, of Asa Reproof: Faithfulness in Isaiah, of Hezekiah Reproof: Faithfulness in Israelites, of the Tribe of Benjamin Reproof: Faithfulness in Israelites, of the Two and One-Half Tribes Reproof: Faithfulness in Jehoash, of Jehoiada Reproof: Faithfulness in Jehu, of Jehoshaphat Reproof: Faithfulness in Jeremiah, of the Cities of Judah Reproof: Faithfulness in Jesus Reproof: Faithfulness in Jesus, of the Pharisees Reproof: Faithfulness in Jesus, of the Scribes and Pharisees Reproof: Faithfulness in Joab, of David Reproof: Faithfulness in John the Baptist, of Herod Antipas Reproof: Faithfulness in John the Baptist, of the Jews Reproof: Faithfulness in Jonathan, of Saul Reproof: Faithfulness in Micaiah, of Ahab Reproof: Faithfulness in Moses, of Eleazar Reproof: Faithfulness in Moses, of Korah Reproof: Faithfulness in Moses, of Pharaoh Reproof: Faithfulness in Moses, of the Israelites Reproof: Faithfulness in Nathan, of David Reproof: Faithfulness in Nehemiah, of the Jews Reproof: Faithfulness in Oded, of the People of Samaria Reproof: Faithfulness In of the Barren Fig Tree Reproof: Faithfulness In of the King's Feast Reproof: Faithfulness In of the Two Sons Reproof: Faithfulness In of the Vineyard Reproof: Faithfulness in Paul and Silas, of the Magistrates of Philippi Reproof: Faithfulness in Paul, of Ananias, the High Priest Reproof: Faithfulness in Paul, of Elymas (Bar-Jesus), the Sorcerer Reproof: Faithfulness in Peter, of Simon, the Sorcerer Reproof: Faithfulness in Samuel, of Saul Reproof: Faithfulness in Shemaiah, of Rehoboam Reproof: Faithfulness in Stephen, of the High Priest Reproof: Faithfulness in The Prophet Gad, of David Reproof: Faithfulness in The Withering of the Fig Tree Reproof: Faithfulness in Zechariah, of the Princes of Judah Reproof: General Scriptures Concerning Reproof: God Gives Reproof to his own Children Reproof: God Gives, to the Wicked Reproof: Hatred of, a Proof of Brutishness Reproof: Hatred of, Leads to Destruction Reproof: Hypocrites not Qualified to Give Reproof: Leads to Understanding Reproof: Ministers are Empowered to Give Reproof: Ministers are Sent to Give Reproof: Ministers should Give with all Authority Reproof: Ministers should Give with Christian Love Reproof: Ministers should Give with Longsuffering Reproof: Ministers should Give: Fearlessly Reproof: Ministers should Give: Openly Reproof: Ministers should Give: Sharply, If Necessary Reproof: Ministers should Give: Unreservedly Reproof: On Account of Fearfulness Reproof: On Account of Hardness of Heart Reproof: On Account of Hypocrisy Reproof: On Account of Impenitence Reproof: On Account of not Understanding Reproof: On Account of Oppressing out Brethren Reproof: On Account of Reviling Christ Reproof: On Account of Sinful Practices Reproof: On Account of Unbelief Reproof: On Account of Unruly Conduct Reproof: On Account of Vain Boasting Reproof: Rejection of, Leads to Error Reproof: Saints should Delight in Those Who Give Reproof: Saints should Give No Occasion For Reproof: Saints should Love Those Who Give Reproof: Saints should Receive Kindly Reproof: The Holy Spirit Gives Reproof: The Scriptures are Profitable For Reproof: They Who Give, are Hated by Scorners Reproof: when from God is Despised by the Wicked Reproof: when from God is for Correction Reproof: when from God: Pray That It be not be in Anger Reproof: when from God: should be Accompanied by Exhortation to Repentance Reproof: when from God: should not Discourage Saints Related Terms |
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