Topical Encyclopedia Selfishness, defined as the excessive concern for oneself at the expense of others, stands in stark contrast to the principles of Christian love as outlined in the Scriptures. The Bible consistently calls believers to a life of selflessness, reflecting the love of Christ in their interactions with others.Biblical Foundation The call to love others selflessly is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of John, Jesus commands His followers, "This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you" (John 15:12). The love of Christ is characterized by sacrifice and putting others before oneself, as demonstrated by His willingness to lay down His life for humanity. The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this in his epistles. In Philippians 2:3-4, Paul 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 passage highlights the importance of humility and the prioritization of others' needs, which are antithetical to selfishness. The Nature of Christian Love Christian love, or agape, is selfless and unconditional. It seeks the welfare of others without expecting anything in return. In 1 Corinthians 13, often referred to as the "Love Chapter," Paul describes the attributes of love, stating, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs" (1 Corinthians 13:4-5). The phrase "it is not self-seeking" directly opposes the notion of selfishness, emphasizing that true love is outward-focused. Selfishness as a Barrier to Christian Community Selfishness disrupts the unity and harmony within the Christian community. In James 3:16, it is written, "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice" . Selfishness breeds conflict and division, undermining the collective mission of the Church to be a witness of Christ's love to the world. The early Church serves as a model of selflessness, as seen in Acts 2:44-45: "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need" . This communal lifestyle exemplifies the self-giving nature of Christian love, where personal interests are subordinated to the needs of the community. The Example of Christ The ultimate example of selflessness is found in Jesus Christ Himself. Philippians 2:5-8 describes the humility and self-emptying of Christ: "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 sacrificial love is the standard to which all believers are called. Practical Implications Believers are encouraged to examine their lives for traces of selfishness and to cultivate a spirit of generosity and service. In Galatians 5:13, Paul urges, "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" . This service is a tangible expression of love that reflects the heart of the Gospel. In summary, selfishness is fundamentally inconsistent with Christian love, which is characterized by selflessness, humility, and a commitment to the well-being of others. The teachings of Jesus and the apostles provide a clear mandate for believers to reject selfishness and embrace a life of love that mirrors the sacrificial nature of Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Corinthians 13:5Does not behave itself unseemly, seeks not her own, is not easily provoked, thinks no evil; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Love in the Blessed Ones. Seeketh not Her Own. 1 Corinthians 13:5. Attributes of Love. For they Loved the Praise of Men More than the Praise of God. John ... Attributes of Love. Forgiveness and Love. Attributes of Selfishness. Be not Conformed to this World. Romans 12:2. Love Worketh no Ill to his Neighbor; Therefore Love is the ... God's Love for a Sinning World Resources What does the Bible say about selfishness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit (Philippians 2:3)? | GotQuestions.org Is it wrong for parents to select the gender of their children, such as through Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)? | 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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