Pride(haughtiness, proud)
Summary
Pride is the sin of self-exaltation and arrogance, consistently condemned throughout Scripture as an abomination to God that leads to destruction.
☩God's Hatred of Pride
Scripture consistently presents pride as detestable to God. 'Everyone who is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord.' Pride is listed among the seven things God hates. The proud are opposed by God who gives grace to the humble. Pride was the sin that brought down Lucifer and remains Satan's primary tool for human destruction.
☩Pride's Consequences
Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall. The proud will be humbled, but the humble will be exalted. Nebuchadnezzar's pride led to his madness. Herod's pride brought his death. Uzziah's pride in entering the temple brought leprosy. Scripture repeatedly demonstrates that God resists the proud and brings them low.
☩Forms of Pride
Pride manifests in many forms: pride of wealth, status, power, knowledge, spiritual attainment, and national identity. The Pharisees exhibited religious pride, trusting in themselves as righteous. The rich are warned not to be high-minded. Paul warns against being puffed up with knowledge. Even spiritual gifts can become occasions for pride.
Related Verses215 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Pride," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. VIII (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).