The Place of Conceit
Jump to: SubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Nature:

Conceit, in biblical terms, refers to an excessive appreciation of one's own worth or virtue. It is often associated with pride, arrogance, and a lack of humility. The Bible consistently warns against conceit, highlighting its destructive nature and its opposition to the character of God.

Biblical References:

1. Proverbs 26:12 · "Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him." This verse underscores the danger of self-conceit, suggesting that those who are wise in their own eyes are less likely to seek wisdom and correction, making them more hopeless than a fool.

2. Romans 12:16 · "Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but enjoy the company of the lowly. Do not be conceited." Here, the Apostle Paul admonishes believers to avoid conceit, promoting humility and unity within the Christian community.

3. Galatians 6:3 · "If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself." This passage warns against self-deception, a common result of conceit, where individuals overestimate their own importance or abilities.

4. Philippians 2:3 · "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." This verse contrasts conceit with humility, urging believers to prioritize others over themselves.

Theological Implications:

Conceit is fundamentally at odds with the Christian call to humility and selflessness. It is a manifestation of pride, which is often described as the root of many sins. Conceit leads individuals to rely on their own understanding and abilities rather than seeking God's wisdom and guidance. It can create divisions within the church, as it fosters an environment where individuals seek their own glory rather than the glory of God.

Examples and Warnings:

1. The Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14): Jesus tells a parable of a Pharisee who is conceited in his self-righteousness, contrasting him with a humble tax collector. The Pharisee's conceit blinds him to his own need for God's mercy, while the tax collector's humility leads to justification.

2. Nebuchadnezzar's Pride (Daniel 4): King Nebuchadnezzar's conceit in his own power and achievements leads to his downfall. God humbles him by driving him away from human society until he acknowledges God's sovereignty.

3. The Rich Fool (Luke 12:16-21): Jesus describes a rich man who is conceited in his wealth, planning for a future without regard for God. His life is demanded of him that very night, illustrating the futility of conceit and self-reliance.

Practical Application:

Believers are called to examine their hearts for any traces of conceit and to cultivate humility. This involves recognizing one's dependence on God, valuing others, and seeking to serve rather than to be served. The Christian community is encouraged to foster an environment where humility is celebrated, and conceit is gently corrected.

Conclusion:

While the Bible does not explicitly mention a "place" of conceit, it is clear that conceit occupies a significant place in the human heart, often leading individuals away from God. The Scriptures provide ample warning and guidance to avoid this pitfall, emphasizing the virtues of humility and selflessness as the path to true wisdom and godliness.
Subtopics

Place

Related Terms

Credited (19 Occurrences)

Credit (39 Occurrences)

Uzzah (10 Occurrences)

Manger (7 Occurrences)

Chariot-cities (3 Occurrences)

Chain (21 Occurrences)

Subject (99 Occurrences)

Position (189 Occurrences)

Set (6715 Occurrences)

Stationed (49 Occurrences)

Candlestick (34 Occurrences)

Tents (284 Occurrences)

Cross (157 Occurrences)

Trap (35 Occurrences)

Ahaz (42 Occurrences)

Joash (49 Occurrences)

Mount (311 Occurrences)

Ark (212 Occurrences)

Opposite (137 Occurrences)

Judgment (430 Occurrences)

Lycaonia (2 Occurrences)

Lamentations (6 Occurrences)

Lookout (4 Occurrences)

Gerizim (4 Occurrences)

Gesture

Wreath (21 Occurrences)

Footstool (16 Occurrences)

Testaments

Tent (333 Occurrences)

Right (4703 Occurrences)

Ramp (9 Occurrences)

Exorcism

Ebal (8 Occurrences)

Deported (12 Occurrences)

Deposit (19 Occurrences)

Mother (2641 Occurrences)

Platform (9 Occurrences)

Between (2624 Occurrences)

Chains (100 Occurrences)

Cherub (21 Occurrences)

Coffer (3 Occurrences)

Affirm (7 Occurrences)

Adin (2 Occurrences)

Shore (45 Occurrences)

Siegeworks (8 Occurrences)

Shewbread (16 Occurrences)

Simply (27 Occurrences)

Situated (6 Occurrences)

Swan (2 Occurrences)

Supporter (6 Occurrences)

Bread (433 Occurrences)

Jehoash (28 Occurrences)

Canonicity

Exorcist (1 Occurrence)

Outstretched (40 Occurrences)

Cherubim (63 Occurrences)

Jehovah (20094 Occurrences)

Ananias (11 Occurrences)

Yahweh (6653 Occurrences)

Basket (40 Occurrences)

Sama'ria (102 Occurrences)

Exile (101 Occurrences)

Amaziah (41 Occurrences)

Lampstand (38 Occurrences)

Post (26 Occurrences)

Tyre (59 Occurrences)

Dial (2 Occurrences)

Measuring (42 Occurrences)

Dispersion (4 Occurrences)

Table (125 Occurrences)

Machpelah (6 Occurrences)

Courts (59 Occurrences)

Tables (41 Occurrences)

Garment (143 Occurrences)

Note (129 Occurrences)

Chronicles (45 Occurrences)

Psalms (44 Occurrences)

Moabite (13 Occurrences)

Twisted (79 Occurrences)

The Place of Concealment
Top of Page
Top of Page