Articles
Selfishness and Empty Conceit
Selfishness and Empty Conceit
What is needed of ME in order to promote and encourage unity and love in our local congregation? According to Paul’s instructions in Phil. 2 – I need to get rid of selfishness and empty conceit. (Read again [and again] Phil. 2:1-4! [see bottom of this article if you don’t have your bible handy].
So then, the world (let alone the congregation I am joined to), does not revolve around me? Of course not. For most of us, it existed before we joined ourselves to it, and in all likelihood it will continue when we are gone.
In the rest of chapter two, Paul will show us what this kind of attitude looks like when it is lived. First, the example of Jesus in vs. 5-11. Second, the example Paul in vs. 17-18. Third, in the life of Timothy (vs. 19-21). And finally, the life of Epaphroditus (vs. 25-30).
Such humility and lack of selfishness not only CAN be developed, it was actually LIVED in these men!
Examine yourself – and make the proper attitude adjustments that are called for.
Hugh DeLong
Philippians 2:1-4 1 Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, 2 make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. 3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; 4 do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.
