Topical Encyclopedia
HumilityHumility is a central virtue in Christian theology, often depicted as the proper attitude of a believer towards God and others. It involves recognizing one's own limitations and the sovereignty of God, leading to a life of service and submission to His will. The Bible frequently extols humility as a desirable trait, contrasting it with the destructive nature of pride.
In the Old Testament, humility is often associated with wisdom and the fear of the Lord.
Proverbs 22:4 states, "The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life." This verse highlights the blessings that accompany a humble heart, suggesting that humility leads to divine favor and prosperity.
The New Testament further emphasizes humility through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 2:5-8 describes the ultimate example of humility in Christ, who "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." This passage underscores the sacrificial nature of true humility, as Jesus willingly set aside His divine privileges for the sake of humanity.
Believers are called to emulate this humility in their relationships with others.
Ephesians 4:2 encourages Christians to "be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." Humility fosters unity and peace within the body of Christ, as it prioritizes the needs and well-being of others above one's own.
PridePride, in contrast, is often depicted in Scripture as a sin that leads to downfall and separation from God. It is characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance and a refusal to acknowledge one's dependence on God. The Bible warns against pride as a root of many other sins and a barrier to spiritual growth.
Proverbs 16:18 famously warns, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse illustrates the inevitable consequences of pride, as it blinds individuals to their vulnerabilities and leads to their ruin. Pride is often linked with rebellion against God, as seen in the account of Lucifer's fall in
Isaiah 14:12-15, where his desire to exalt himself above God resulted in his expulsion from heaven.
In the New Testament, pride is similarly condemned.
James 4:6 states, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" This passage highlights the opposition between pride and divine grace, emphasizing that God actively resists those who are prideful while extending His favor to the humble.
The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector in
Luke 18:9-14 further illustrates the dangers of pride. The Pharisee's self-righteousness and contempt for others stand in stark contrast to the tax collector's humble plea for mercy. Jesus concludes the parable by stating, "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted" (
Luke 18:14). This teaching reinforces the biblical principle that true exaltation comes through humility, not self-promotion.
In summary, humility and pride are presented in Scripture as opposing forces, with humility leading to divine blessing and pride resulting in spiritual downfall. Believers are encouraged to cultivate humility, following the example of Christ, and to guard against the insidious nature of pride.
