Pride

Pride, in the biblical context, is often depicted as an excessive self-esteem or an unwarranted sense of superiority over others. It is considered a sin that leads individuals away from God, as it fosters self-reliance and a rejection of divine authority. The Bible frequently warns against pride, illustrating its destructive nature and the consequences it brings.

In the Old Testament, pride is exemplified in the account of Lucifer, whose fall from grace is attributed to his desire to exalt himself above God. Isaiah 14:13-14 describes this ambition: "You said in your heart, 'I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit on the mount of assembly, in the far reaches of the north. I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.'"

Proverbs, a book rich in wisdom literature, frequently addresses the dangers of pride. Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse underscores the inevitable downfall that accompanies prideful behavior, emphasizing the need for humility.

In the New Testament, Jesus teaches about the perils of pride through parables and direct instruction. In Luke 18:9-14 , the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector illustrates the contrast between pride and humility. The Pharisee's self-righteous prayer is marked by pride, while the tax collector's humble plea for mercy is commended by Jesus: "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 18:14).

The Apostle Paul also addresses pride in his epistles, urging believers to adopt a mindset of humility. In Philippians 2:3 , he writes, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." This exhortation reflects the Christian call to emulate Christ's humility and selflessness.

Unrepentance

Unrepentance is the refusal to acknowledge one's sins and turn away from them, a state that hardens the heart and separates individuals from God's grace. The Bible consistently calls for repentance as a necessary step toward reconciliation with God and spiritual renewal.

In the Old Testament, the prophets frequently called the Israelites to repentance, warning of the consequences of unrepentance. Jeremiah 5:3 laments, "O LORD, do Your eyes not look for truth? You struck them, but they felt no pain; You crushed them, but they refused correction. They made their faces harder than stone and refused to repent." This passage highlights the stubbornness of unrepentance and its resistance to divine correction.

The New Testament continues this theme, with John the Baptist and Jesus both beginning their ministries with a call to repentance. In Matthew 3:2 , John the Baptist proclaims, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." Jesus echoes this message in Matthew 4:17 : "From that time on Jesus began to preach, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.'"

The Apostle Peter, in his sermon at Pentecost, emphasizes the necessity of repentance for salvation. Acts 2:38 records his words: "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." This call to repentance is foundational to the Christian faith, signifying a turning away from sin and a turning toward God.

The Book of Revelation warns of the dire consequences of unrepentance in the end times. Revelation 9:20-21 describes those who persist in their sins despite divine judgments: "The rest of mankind who were not killed by these plagues still did not repent of the works of their hands; they did not stop worshiping demons and idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood, which cannot see or hear or walk. Nor did they repent of their murders, their sorceries, their sexual immorality, and their thefts."

Pride and unrepentance are closely linked, as pride often prevents individuals from recognizing their need for repentance. The Bible consistently calls for humility and repentance as essential steps toward a right relationship with God, warning of the spiritual peril that accompanies pride and unrepentance.