The Definition of Self Righteousness
Source
Matthew 22:29 - Jesus replied, “You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.”
Romans 3:27 - Where then is boasting. It is excluded. On what principle? On that of observing the law? No, but on that of faith.
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Observation
Self Righteousness (Defined)
Convinced of one’s own righteousness in contrast with actions and beliefs of others, narrow minded.
This is someone who wants to earn God’s righteousness on their own terms and not follow the Word of God.
They make their own rules to accommodate their selfish lifestyle claiming they are righteous, this is also idolatry.
True righteousness is only obtained by faith and following the gospel.
When we choose to judge others, be prejudice, greedy, selfish and claim our way is right and everyone else is wrong.
Especially when we do not recognize Jesus and the gospel as accurate and our life guide, we are self righteous.
Further defined as giving final authority, not to God, but to one’s self.
The self righteous claim it’s the will of God but unless it is truly the will of God, it’s self righteous, never seeing the errors of their own ways.
If we still struggle with the notion that we are right because we follow Jesus then remember that God gave us the UNDESERVED GIFT OF GRACE so even though you may be correct you are acting unrighteous if you act in any manner other than love.
God gave us grace so as to remove the ability to boast about our righteousness.
God made for us, a way to be holy but not proud because we didn’t earn righteousness and there is nothing we can do to become more righteous.
Jesus already did all the work, so be humble and stay in the word to strengthen your faith and the holy spirit will guide you in righteousness.
Application
Obviously, self righteousness is rooted in pride, it’s evil and we should not live this way.
Let’s take a step back and consider our motivations in our every day lives at work and at home.
Are we judging others because we are being self righteous. Remember, God loves the people we disagree with so when we judge or criticize others we are acting out of self righteousness.
This is why it’s important to spend time in the Word daily as well so we can internalize and have God’s living word live within us. That way we stand a better chance of not falling victim to self righteousness.
When we disagree with our spouse, children, friends, colleagues, clients, etc. how we handle ourselves matters.
When we are not led by the holy spirit we may act out in a manner that is purely self righteous, selfish, prideful and evil.
Take a step back in your daily interactions with others, breathe, pray, ask for help from God.
Prayer
Lord, we are so grateful for the wonderful life you have given us. We are blessed with family, friends and colleagues. Please show us how to treat others with kindness and not judgement or condemnation.
Let our opinions be Godly and rooted in your word and show us how to step out of our own self righteous mind and show empathy and love towards others. Amen.