Selfishness, the excessive or exclusive concern with oneself and one's own needs or desires, is a fundamental aspect of human nature as depicted in the Bible. The Scriptures consistently highlight the inherent tendency of mankind to prioritize personal interests over the needs of others, a condition that is deeply rooted in the fallen nature of humanity.

The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Romans, provides a profound insight into the universal nature of selfishness. Romans 3:10-12 states, "As it is written: 'There is no one righteous, not even one. There is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God. All have turned away; they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one.'" This passage underscores the pervasive nature of sin, including selfishness, which affects all of humanity without exception.

The origin of selfishness can be traced back to the fall of man in the Garden of Eden. In Genesis 3, Adam and Eve's decision to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil was driven by a desire to elevate themselves, seeking wisdom and status equal to God. This act of disobedience introduced sin into the world, corrupting the nature of mankind and embedding selfishness into the human condition.

Throughout the Old Testament, the consequences of selfishness are evident in the lives of individuals and nations. The account of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4 illustrates how selfish desires can lead to destructive actions. Cain's jealousy and self-centeredness culminated in the murder of his brother Abel, highlighting the destructive power of unchecked selfishness.

The wisdom literature of the Bible also addresses the issue of selfishness. Proverbs 18:1 warns, "He who isolates himself pursues selfish desires; he rebels against all sound judgment." This proverb emphasizes the folly of pursuing one's own interests at the expense of community and sound judgment, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative.

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ provides the ultimate example of selflessness, contrasting sharply with the selfish tendencies of humanity. Philippians 2:3-4 exhorts believers, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." This call to selflessness is rooted in the example of Christ, who, though being in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant (Philippians 2:6-7).

The teachings of Jesus further challenge the natural inclination towards selfishness. In Matthew 16:24-25 , Jesus declares, "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it." This radical call to self-denial and sacrificial living stands in stark contrast to the self-centeredness that characterizes the human heart.

The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently addresses the issue of selfishness within the early Christian communities. In 1 Corinthians 10:24 , he instructs, "No one should seek his own good, but the good of others." This directive reflects the transformative power of the Gospel, which calls believers to live in a manner that reflects the selfless love of Christ.

In summary, the Bible presents selfishness as a universal human condition, deeply ingrained in the fallen nature of mankind. From the fall in the Garden of Eden to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, Scripture consistently calls for a departure from self-centered living towards a life characterized by selflessness and love for others.Ephesians 2:3
Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Philippians 2:21
For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

the Nature of this Oversight
... Some are specially addicted to pride, and others ... did constantly practice it, till
selfishness and formality ... and therefore God, who calleth all men to repentance ...
//christianbookshelf.org/baxter/the reformed pastor/section 1 the nature 2.htm

the Use of Humiliation
... of the ministry, to entice a man to selfishness, even in ... in works of charity, and
in improving all we have ... If men see that you are addicted to do good, they ...
//christianbookshelf.org/baxter/the reformed pastor/section 1 - the use.htm

Watkinson -- the Transfigured Sackcloth
... conscience; they refuse to acknowledge the selfishness, the baseness ... And men generally
are willing to dupe themselves ... confusion of which we are all more or less ...
/.../the worlds great sermons volume 8/watkinson the transfigured sackcloth.htm

Evil Habits and Injurious Indulgences.
... think that God will not punish you for your selfishness. ... Christian, "Let your light
so shine before men that they ... Can he say to all, "Follow me in this habit"? ...
//christianbookshelf.org/orr/the gospel day /chapter xiv evil habits and.htm

A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to ...
... the more weighty matters of the law, to wit, judgment, mercy, faith; or else to
the significative ordinances, still neglecting to do to all men as he would ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a holy life the beauty.htm

Miscellaneous Phrases
... Men of profound erudition [erudition = extensive learning]. ... Ominous and swift days.
Omitting all compliments and commonplaces. ... Selfishness pampered by abundance. ...
/.../kleiser/fifteen thousand useful phrases/section xi miscellaneous phrases.htm

What does the Bible say about abuse? | GotQuestions.org

Is God a moral monster? | GotQuestions.org

Sinful Character Traits ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org

Selfishness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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