What Does the Bible Say About Selfishness?
Key Scriptures and spiritual guidance on selfishness
The Bible addresses selfishness as a behavior that is contrary to the teachings of Jesus. Selfishness is rooted in focusing solely on one's own interests, often at the expense of others. Instead, the Bible encourages believers to practice love, humility, and consideration for others, following the example of Jesus who demonstrated selflessness through his sacrificial love for humanity.
Bible Verses About Selfishness
Philippians 2:3–4KJV
“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.”
Galatians 5:13KJV
“For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.”
James 3:16KJV
“For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.”
1 Corinthians 10:24KJV
“Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth.”
Proverbs 18:1KJV
“Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.”
Romans 2:8KJV
“But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,”
Luke 6:31KJV
“And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.”