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 dependence on God, as well as valuing others above oneself. The Bible frequently extols humility as a characteristic of the righteous and a prerequisite for receiving God's grace.
In the Old Testament, humility is often associated with wisdom and the fear of the Lord.
Proverbs 22:4 states, "The reward of humility and the fear of the LORD is riches and honor and life." This verse highlights the blessings that accompany a humble disposition, suggesting that humility leads to divine favor and prosperity.
The New Testament further emphasizes humility as a key aspect of Christian discipleship. Jesus Christ is the ultimate model of humility, as described in
Philippians 2:5-8: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but 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 self-emptying nature of Christ's humility, which believers are called to emulate.
Humility is also linked to the reception of God's grace.
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.'" This verse indicates that humility is essential for experiencing God's grace, as it opens the heart to divine influence and transformation.
PridePride, in contrast to humility, is often depicted in the Bible as a destructive and sinful attitude. It involves an inflated sense of self-importance and a disregard for God's authority and the needs of others. Pride is frequently associated with rebellion against God and is considered a root cause of many other sins.
The Old Testament provides numerous warnings against pride.
Proverbs 16:18 famously states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This proverb illustrates the inevitable downfall that accompanies pride, as it leads individuals away from wisdom and righteousness.
In the New Testament, pride is similarly condemned as contrary to the spirit of Christ. Jesus warns against the dangers of pride in His teachings, as seen in
Luke 18:14: "I tell you, this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted." This teaching highlights the divine reversal that occurs when pride is replaced by humility.
Pride is also identified as a barrier to spiritual growth and community harmony. In
1 Peter 5:5, believers are exhorted, "Likewise, you younger ones, submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.'" This passage emphasizes the importance of humility in maintaining unity and receiving God's grace, while pride is seen as an obstacle to both.
Throughout Scripture, the contrast between humility and pride serves as a moral and spiritual lesson for believers. Humility is portrayed as a virtue that aligns individuals with God's will and opens them to His blessings, while pride is depicted as a vice that leads to separation from God and eventual downfall.
