Topical Encyclopedia Selfishness, defined as the excessive or exclusive concern with oneself at the expense of others, is a trait that is consistently admonished in the Scriptures. The Bible presents a clear and compelling case against selfishness, particularly for those who are called to be saints, or followers of Christ. The call to selflessness is rooted in the character of God and the example of Jesus Christ, who epitomized humility and sacrificial love.Biblical Exhortations Against Selfishness The Bible contains numerous exhortations against selfishness, urging believers to adopt a mindset of humility and service. In Philippians 2:3-4 , the Apostle Paul writes, "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 passage highlights the importance of prioritizing the needs of others and fostering a community of mutual care and respect. James 3:16 warns of the destructive nature of selfishness: "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice." Here, selfishness is linked to chaos and moral decay, underscoring the need for believers to reject such attitudes. The Example of Christ The ultimate example of selflessness is found in Jesus Christ. Philippians 2:5-8 describes Christ's humility and self-sacrifice: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." Christ's willingness to forsake His divine privileges and endure suffering for the sake of humanity serves as the model for Christian conduct. Believers are called to emulate this selflessness in their interactions with others. Selfishness as Contrary to Love Selfishness is fundamentally at odds with the biblical concept of love. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 , love is described as patient and kind, not envious or boastful, and crucially, "it does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking." The self-seeking nature of selfishness is incompatible with the self-giving nature of love that believers are commanded to exhibit. The Call to Generosity and Service The Scriptures encourage believers to practice generosity and service as antidotes to selfishness. In 1 John 3:17 , the apostle John challenges believers: "If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God abide in him?" This rhetorical question emphasizes the expectation that those who follow Christ will demonstrate their faith through acts of compassion and generosity. Galatians 5:13 further instructs, "For you, brothers, were called to freedom; but do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh. Rather, serve one another in love." The freedom believers have in Christ is not a license for selfish indulgence but an opportunity to serve others. The Role of the Holy Spirit The transformation from selfishness to selflessness is facilitated by the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, kindness, and goodness—qualities that stand in stark contrast to selfishness. As believers yield to the Spirit, they are empowered to live lives that reflect the character of Christ. In summary, the Bible presents a clear mandate for believers to reject selfishness and embrace a life of selflessness, modeled after the example of Jesus Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Through humility, love, and service, saints are called to reflect the heart of God in a world often characterized by self-centeredness. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Corinthians 10:24Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth. Torrey's Topical Textbook Philippians 2:4 Library Ignorance of Evil. Christian Sympathy A Tribute from Enemies Attributes of Love. Attributes of Love. The Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566. The Growth and Power of Sin The Last Incidents in Per??a - the Young Ruler who Went Away ... Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility Heb. 4:14 Our Profession Resources What does the Bible say about sharing? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is loving others often so difficult? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about motives? | GotQuestions.org Selfishness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Selfishness: All Men Addicted To Selfishness: Characteristic of the Last Days Selfishness: Contrary to the Law of God Selfishness: Especially Forbidden to Saints Selfishness: Exhibited in Being Lovers of Ourselves Selfishness: Exhibited in Living to Ourselves Selfishness: Exhibited in Neglect of the Poor Selfishness: Exhibited in Performing Duty for Reward Selfishness: Exhibited in Pleasing Ourselves Selfishness: Exhibited in Seeking After Gain Selfishness: Exhibited in Seeking Our Own Selfishness: Exhibited in Seeking Undue Precedence Selfishness: Exhibited in Serving God for Reward Selfishness: General Scriptures Concerning Selfishness: Inconsistent With Christian Love Selfishness: Inconsistent With Communion of Saints Selfishness: Ministers should be Devoid of Selfishness: Saints Falsely Accused of Selfishness: The Example of Christ Condemns Selfishness: The Love of Christ should Constrain Us to Avoid Related Terms |
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