Definition and Context:
Self-righteousness is the belief in one's own righteousness, often accompanied by a sense of moral superiority over others. In the biblical context, self-righteousness is seen as a spiritual pitfall that leads individuals away from genuine faith and humility before God. The Bible warns against self-righteousness, emphasizing the need for humility, repentance, and reliance on God's grace rather than one's own perceived moral standing.

Biblical References:

1. Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14):
In this parable, Jesus addresses those who "trusted in their own righteousness and viewed others with contempt" (Luke 18:9). The Pharisee, standing by himself, prays, "God, I thank You that I am not like other men—swindlers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector" (Luke 18:11). In contrast, the tax collector stands at a distance, unwilling to lift his eyes to heaven, and prays, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner!" (Luke 18:13). Jesus concludes that the tax collector, not the Pharisee, went home justified before God, illustrating that humility and repentance are valued over self-righteousness.

2. Isaiah's Rebuke of Self-Righteousness (Isaiah 65:5):
The prophet Isaiah condemns those who say, "Keep to yourself; do not come near me, for I am holier than you!" (Isaiah 65:5). This attitude is described as smoke in God's nostrils, indicating divine displeasure with self-righteousness. Isaiah's rebuke highlights the danger of considering oneself superior to others, which leads to spiritual pride and alienation from God.

3. Paul's Teaching on Righteousness (Romans 10:3):
The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of self-righteousness among the Israelites, stating, "For they were ignorant of God’s righteousness and sought to establish their own. They did not submit to God’s righteousness" (Romans 10:3). Paul emphasizes that true righteousness comes from faith in Christ, not from adherence to the law or personal merit.

4. Jesus' Critique of the Pharisees (Matthew 23:27-28):
Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their outward displays of righteousness while neglecting inner purity. He declares, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of impurity" (Matthew 23:27). This critique underscores the emptiness of self-righteousness that focuses on external appearances rather than genuine spiritual transformation.

Theological Implications:
Self-righteousness is antithetical to the Christian understanding of salvation by grace through faith. It reflects a reliance on human effort rather than divine grace. The Bible consistently teaches that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23), and that righteousness is a gift from God through faith in Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:9). Self-righteousness can lead to spiritual blindness, preventing individuals from recognizing their need for a Savior.

Practical Applications:
Believers are called to examine their hearts for any traces of self-righteousness and to cultivate humility. This involves acknowledging one's own sinfulness, seeking God's forgiveness, and extending grace to others. Christians are encouraged to follow the example of Christ, who humbled Himself and became obedient to death on a cross (Philippians 2:8). By doing so, they can avoid the pitfalls of self-righteousness and live in a manner that reflects the love and grace of God.