Topical Encyclopedia Selfishness, as a concept, is often depicted in the Bible as a deviation from the divine ideal of love and selflessness. It is the act of prioritizing one's own desires and interests above those of others, often leading to actions that are contrary to the teachings of Christ. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that highlight the dangers and spiritual consequences of selfishness, particularly when it manifests as pleasing oneself at the expense of others.Biblical Examples and Teachings 1. Romans 15:1-3: The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of selfishness in the context of Christian community and relationships. He writes, "We who are strong ought to bear with the shortcomings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For even Christ did not please Himself, but as it is written: 'The insults of those who insult You have fallen on Me.'" . Here, Paul emphasizes the importance of selflessness and the call to emulate Christ, who did not seek His own pleasure but bore the burdens of others. 2. Philippians 2:3-4: Paul further instructs believers to "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 underscores the Christian ethic of humility and the rejection of self-centeredness, urging believers to prioritize the well-being of others. 3. James 3:14-16: James warns against the destructive nature of selfishness, stating, "But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice." . Selfishness, according to James, leads to chaos and moral decay, contrasting sharply with the wisdom that comes from God. 4. Luke 12:16-21: Jesus shares the parable of the rich fool, a man who hoards his wealth for personal pleasure without regard for others or his own spiritual state. The man says 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. This parable illustrates the futility and spiritual peril of living a life centered on self-gratification. 5. 2 Timothy 3:1-2: Paul warns Timothy about the characteristics of people in the last days, stating, "But understand this: In the last days, terrible times will come. For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy." . The love of self is listed among other vices, indicating its incompatibility with a life devoted to God. Theological Implications Selfishness, particularly when it manifests as pleasing oneself, is antithetical to the Christian call to love and serve others. The life and teachings of Jesus Christ serve as the ultimate model of selflessness, as He consistently put the needs of others before His own, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross. The Bible calls believers to follow this example, living lives marked by humility, service, and love for one's neighbor. In the Christian tradition, selfishness is often seen as a root of sin, leading to behaviors and attitudes that separate individuals from God and community. It is a barrier to spiritual growth and maturity, as it focuses the heart inward rather than outward toward God and others. The call to deny oneself, take up one's cross, and follow Christ (Matthew 16:24) is a direct challenge to the natural inclination toward selfishness, inviting believers into a life of self-giving love. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 15:1We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Attributes of Love. Our Relations to the Departed Epistle of Paul to the Philippians. Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility section second. The Pilgrim's Progress Resources What does the Bible say about abuse? | GotQuestions.orgIs 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 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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