The Sin of Selfishness: A Bible-Based Examination
The Subtle Danger of Selfishness
Our world is saturated with selfishness. From the headlines to the home, from marriages to governments, selfishness underlies much of the conflict we witness. It is a subtle yet dangerous sin that easily creeps into our lives unnoticed. A minister once remarked that nearly every marital problem stems from selfishness. This principle extends far beyond the home; selfishness can damage our character, ruin our influence, and destroy our reputation. Though rarely called out as sin by the world, Scripture repeatedly warns us of its danger.

Selfishness Leads to Other Sins
Selfishness is not an isolated character flaw—it opens the door to many other sins. In Philippians 2:20-21, Paul mourns that "all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus." This contrast exposes selfishness as a flesh-driven mindset that replaces Christ's priorities with our own. Philippians 2:3-4 commands us to esteem others better than ourselves. If we only look out for our own interests, we are not walking in love, for agape love focuses on the welfare of others.

Jesus emphasized this principle in Matthew 22:36-40, when He declared the two greatest commandments: love God first, and love your neighbor as yourself. Selfishness violates both. It is a work of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21), a root of strife (James 4:1-4), and a hallmark of worldliness (Ephesians 2:3). The selfish person lives to gratify their own desires rather than serve Christ. Such a one stands in opposition to God.

Selfishness Must Be Put to Death
Selfishness cannot be ignored or excused; it must be put to death (Colossians 3:5). Paul names it among the sins that incur the wrath of God. When we confess Christ, we declare that self is no longer on the throne—Christ is. As Galatians 2:20 teaches, "It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me."

We must take responsibility for selfishness, just as David did in Psalm 51. Sin is a choice, and selfishness is no different. It cannot be blamed on upbringing, genetics, or environment. It is a decision to prioritize self instead of God and others. Dying to self means learning to say "no" to our own desires and "yes" to the will of Christ.

Selfishness Is a Trait of Satan
Perhaps the most sobering truth is this: selfishness reflects the character of Satan. He is the ultimate self-centered being, seeking to draw souls away from God for his own gain. In contrast, Jesus exemplified perfect selflessness. Philippians 2:5-8 reveals that Christ, though equal with God, humbled Himself to serve and to die for us.

Jesus gave us an example in John 13 when He washed His disciples' feet, saying, "You also ought to wash one another's feet." We are not called to knowledge only but to action. We must do as Christ did.

Conclusion
Selfishness must be identified, confronted, and crucified daily. It is a sin that delights Satan and hinders the church. True discipleship demands that we follow the footsteps of Jesus, serving others instead of self. In our homes, churches, and communities, let us reflect Christ, not Satan. "Love the Lord your God... and your neighbor as yourself."

Sermon Outline: "The Sin of Selfishness"

Introduction:

• Selfishness is rampant in society and often goes unchallenged.
• Many personal and societal problems can be traced back to selfishness.
• Christians must recognize selfishness as sin and confront it.

I. Selfishness Leads to Other Sins

• Philippians 2:20-21: Seeking our own interests opposes Christ.
• Philippians 2:3-4: Agape love demands concern for others.
• Matthew 22:36-40: Selfishness breaks the greatest commandments.
• James 4:1-4: Lust and conflict come from selfish desires.

II. Selfishness Must Be Put to Death

• Colossians 3:5: Selfish passions must be crucified.
• Galatians 2:20: Living for Christ replaces living for self.
• Psalm 51:1-4: Take personal responsibility—no excuses.
• Christianity requires putting others above self.

III. Selfishness Is a Trait of Satan

• Satan is the ultimate example of selfishness.
• Philippians 2:5-8: Christ gave up everything to serve.
• John 13:13-17: Jesus washed feet—so must we.
• Serving others is the antidote to selfishness.

Conclusion and Call to Action:

• Examine your life for selfish tendencies.
• Are your decisions driven by Christ or by self?
• Choose to follow Christ's selfless example.
• Respond to the invitation: either begin a walk with Christ or restore your relationship with Him today.

Lesson prepared by Bobby Stafford, church of Christ, Granby, MO.