Topical Encyclopedia Definition: Self-importance refers to an inflated sense of one's own value or significance, often manifesting as arrogance or pride. In a biblical context, self-importance is viewed as a negative trait that stands in opposition to the humility and servitude exemplified by Jesus Christ. Biblical References and Themes: 1. Pride and Humility: The Bible frequently warns against pride, which is closely related to self-importance. Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse highlights the danger of self-importance, suggesting that it leads to downfall and ruin. In contrast, humility is exalted as a virtue. James 4:6 declares, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" 2. The Example of Christ: Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example of humility. Philippians 2:5-8 encourages believers to adopt the mindset of Christ, who, despite being in the form of God, "made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness." This passage underscores the importance of humility and servitude over self-importance. 3. Warnings Against Self-Exaltation: Jesus often warned against self-exaltation. In Luke 18:9-14, He tells the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. The Pharisee, full of self-importance, boasts of his righteousness, while the tax collector humbly asks for mercy. Jesus concludes, "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 18:14). 4. Servant Leadership: The concept of servant leadership is central to Christian teaching and stands in stark contrast to self-importance. In Matthew 20:25-28, Jesus instructs His disciples, "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." 5. The Pharisees as Examples of Self-Importance: The Pharisees are often depicted as embodying self-importance. In Matthew 23:5-7, Jesus criticizes them for their ostentatious displays of piety and desire for recognition: "They do all their deeds to be seen by men... they love the place of honor at banquets and the chief seats in the synagogues, and the greetings in the marketplaces, and being called Rabbi by men." 6. The Call to Humility: Believers are called to reject self-importance and embrace humility. Romans 12:3 advises, "For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you." Conclusion: While the Bible acknowledges the human tendency toward self-importance, it consistently calls believers to a life of humility, service, and reliance on God's grace. Through the example of Christ and the teachings of Scripture, Christians are encouraged to forsake self-exaltation and embrace a life that honors God and serves others. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (a.) Having or manifesting an exaggerated idea of one's own importance or merit.Library The Meek. Trials to be Met. Luther's Separation from Rome. He Abandons the School-Room. Remarkable Meeting Near Alexandria. ... Luther's Separation from Rome Satan's Banquet The First Epistle of St. Peter Conclusion --Repent Ye, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand. Thesaurus Self-important (1 Occurrence)Self-important. Self-honoured, Self-important. Self-imposed . Noah Webster's Dictionary ... Multi-Version Concordance Self-important (1 Occurrence). ... /s/self-important.htm - 6k Treacherous (34 Occurrences) Self-honoured (1 Occurrence) Self-imposed (1 Occurrence) Loving (292 Occurrences) Instead (139 Occurrences) Resources How should a Christian view self-esteem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about self-examination? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about self-gratification / self-pleasure? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Self-important (1 Occurrence)2 Timothy 3:4 Subtopics Related Terms |
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