The term “self-righteous” is often used to describe someone who is convinced of their own moral superiority and believes themselves to be more virtuous or righteous than others. In a biblical and theological context, self-righteousness is seen as a negative trait that contrasts with the humility and grace that characterize true righteousness in God’s eyes.

Definition and Characteristics

Definition

Self-righteousness refers to the belief in one’s own righteousness and moral superiority, often accompanied by a lack of humility and a judgmental attitude towards others. It is the act of relying on one’s own perceived moral or ethical correctness rather than recognizing the need for God’s grace and mercy.

Characteristics

• Arrogance: A self-righteous person often exhibits arrogance, believing they are better than others.
• Judgmental Attitude: They tend to judge others harshly, failing to recognize their own faults and shortcomings.
• Hypocrisy: Self-righteous individuals may display hypocritical behavior, holding others to standards they themselves do not fully meet.
• Lack of Compassion: There is often a lack of empathy and compassion for others, as the focus is on their own perceived virtue.

Biblical Examples and Warnings

Pharisees and Self-Righteousness

The Pharisees in the New Testament are often depicted as self-righteous. Jesus frequently rebuked them for their hypocrisy and legalism, highlighting their outward appearance of piety while neglecting inner righteousness.

Matthew 23:27-28 (NIV)

Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.

The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector

Jesus told a parable specifically addressing self-righteousness, contrasting the attitudes of a Pharisee and a tax collector in prayer.

Luke 18:9-14 (NIV)

To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’ But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Isaiah on Righteousness

The prophet Isaiah emphasized that self-righteous acts are worthless in God’s sight, comparing them to “filthy rags.”

Isaiah 64:6 (NIV)

All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away.

Theological Implications

True Righteousness

True righteousness, according to the Bible, comes from God and is based on faith, not on human efforts or moral superiority.

Romans 3:21-22 (NIV)

But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.

Humility and Dependence on God

The Bible calls believers to humility and dependence on God’s grace rather than their own perceived righteousness.

Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV)

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.

The Danger of Self-Righteousness

Self-righteousness can lead to spiritual pride, hypocrisy, and a judgmental attitude, which are contrary to the teachings of Jesus and the character of true discipleship.

Relevance for Today’s Christian

Self-Examination

Christians are encouraged to regularly examine their own hearts and attitudes to ensure they are not falling into self-righteousness.

2 Corinthians 13:5 (NIV)

Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?

Embracing Humility

Humility is a core Christian virtue, and believers are called to recognize their need for God’s grace and to extend grace to others.

Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV)

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

Showing Compassion

A Christ-like attitude involves showing compassion and empathy towards others, avoiding judgmental attitudes, and understanding that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

Colossians 3:12-13 (NIV)

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Conclusion

Self-righteousness is a significant spiritual danger that contrasts sharply with the biblical ideals of humility, grace, and true righteousness found in God. By examining biblical examples and teachings, Christians are encouraged to avoid the pitfalls of self-righteousness, embrace humility, and rely on God’s grace. True righteousness is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ, and it should lead believers to show compassion, avoid judgment, and live lives marked by genuine humility and dependence on God.