Selfishness, defined as the excessive or exclusive concern with oneself, often at the expense of others, is a trait that stands in stark contrast to the teachings of the Bible. The Scriptures consistently admonish believers to eschew selfishness and instead embrace a life of selflessness, modeled after the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Biblical Condemnation of Selfishness

The Bible provides numerous warnings against selfishness, highlighting its destructive nature. In Philippians 2:3-4 , the Apostle 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 underscores the call to humility and the prioritization of others' needs over personal gain.

James 3:16 further illustrates the chaos that selfishness can bring: "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice." Here, selfishness is linked to disorder and moral decay, emphasizing its incompatibility with a life led by the Spirit.

The Example of Christ's Selflessness

The ultimate example of selflessness is found in Jesus Christ, whose life and sacrifice epitomize the antithesis of selfishness. In Philippians 2:5-8 , Paul writes, "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 ultimate model for believers. His love and sacrifice compel Christians to live selflessly, putting the needs of others before their own desires.

The Love of Christ as a Constraint

The love of Christ is a powerful force that should constrain believers to avoid selfishness. In 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 , Paul declares, "For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that One died for all, therefore all died. And He died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died for them and was raised again."

This passage highlights the transformative power of Christ's love, which motivates believers to live not for themselves, but for Christ and others. The sacrificial love of Jesus serves as both an example and a driving force, urging Christians to reject selfishness and embrace a life of service and love.

Practical Implications for Believers

The call to avoid selfishness has practical implications for daily Christian living. Believers are encouraged to practice generosity, hospitality, and kindness, reflecting the selfless nature of Christ. In Romans 12:10 , Paul advises, "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another." This directive encourages a culture of mutual respect and selflessness within the Christian community.

Furthermore, 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 rejection of selfishness and the embrace of a Christ-centered, selfless existence.

In summary, the Bible consistently calls believers to reject selfishness and embrace a life of selflessness, inspired by the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Christians are empowered to live lives that reflect the selfless love of their Savior, prioritizing the needs of others and glorifying God in all they do.2 Corinthians 5:14,15
For the love of Christ constrains us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

C??sarius of Arles.
... quotes 1 Corinthians 13, 3: "And since selfishness is the ... life, and animated by the
Spirit of love, is in ... righteousness come by the law, then is Christ dead in ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/neander/light in the dark places/caesarius of arles.htm

The Fatherhood of God
... and what is that but selfishness? ... made useful in bringing you into the family of
Christ though you have strayed from him long; and though his love has followed ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 4 1858/the fatherhood of god.htm

For Godly Sorrow Worketh Repentance to Salvation, not to be ...
... All this is pure selfishness. ... Christ, that the love of Christ will constrain him
to labor all his days for Christ. ... Because their hearts do not love to do duty. ...
/.../lectures to professing christians/for godly sorrow worketh repentance.htm

Your Own Salvation
... right you own wrongs, reform yourself, yield yourself to the love of Jesus Christ,
or what ... us to look to ourselves, and that is sheer selfishness." Yes, so ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/your own salvation.htm

part ii
... and sicknesses, turn to Her with faith, hope, and love. ... Mother." [741] In order that
we should not doubt ... Eternal, Divine Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, has solved ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

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Selfishness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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