SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Luke 18:9-14
Supporting Texts: Romans 10:3, Isaiah 64:6, Philippians 3:9, Matthew 23:27-28, Proverbs 16:2
INTRODUCTION:
Self-righteousness is the deceptive belief that one is morally superior or acceptable before God based on personal works, religious activities, or outward behaviour. It is a subtle form of pride that exalts human efforts above God’s grace and often leads to condemnation of others.
Many today fall into this spiritual trap, trusting in their religious performance, titles, or traditions instead of the righteousness that comes by faith in Christ. The Bible warns repeatedly about the dangers of this attitude and how it can rob one of true fellowship with God.
True righteousness is not self-generated—it is imputed by grace through faith in Christ Jesus. As we explore the theme of self-righteousness, we will uncover its dangers, manifestations, and how to overcome it through humility and dependence on God.
1. WHAT IS SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS?
Self-righteousness is depending on personal merit instead of God's mercy.
a) Trusting in One’s Own Works (Romans 10:3)
Many seek to establish their own righteousness, rejecting God's provision through Christ.
b) Boasting in Religious Identity or Activity (Philippians 3:5-6)
Paul had every reason to boast, yet he counted it all as loss for Christ’s sake.
c) Comparing Oneself with Others (Luke 18:11)
The Pharisee in Jesus' parable boasted of his fasting and tithing, looking down on the tax collector.
d) Outward Holiness Without Inner Transformation (Matthew 23:27-28)
Jesus called the Pharisees whitewashed tombs—clean outside but full of corruption within.
Biblical Example: The Pharisee and the Tax Collector—Only the humble tax collector went home justified (Luke 18:9-14).
2. DANGERS OF SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS
Self-righteousness hinders grace and draws God's displeasure.
a) It Blocks True Repentance (Revelation 3:17)
The self-righteous believe they have no need of repentance or help.
b) It Leads to Spiritual Blindness (Matthew 15:14)
The blind lead the blind when pride replaces spiritual truth.
c) It Causes Division and Condemnation (Romans 14:10)
Self-righteous people judge others quickly and harshly.
d) It Replaces the Gospel with Works-Based Religion (Galatians 2:21)
If righteousness could come by the law, then Christ died in vain.
Biblical Example: The elder brother in the parable of the Prodigal Son—He was angry at his father’s mercy because he felt entitled (Luke 15:25-30).
3. CHARACTERISTICS OF SELF-RIGHTEOUS PEOPLE
Understanding the traits helps in self-examination and correction.
a) Pride in Religious Performance (Matthew 6:5)
They want to be seen praying, fasting, and giving.
b) Lack of Compassion and Mercy (Matthew 23:4)
They place heavy burdens on others but don’t lift a finger to help.
c) Hypocrisy and Pretence (Isaiah 29:13)
They honour God with their lips but their hearts are far from Him.
d) Resistance to Correction (Proverbs 12:1)
They see correction as an attack and not as a path to growth.
Biblical Example: King Saul—He obeyed partially and justified himself before Samuel instead of repenting (1 Samuel 15:13-23).
4. THE PATH TO TRUE RIGHTEOUSNESS
God offers us a better way—His own righteousness through Christ.
a) Acknowledge Your Need for God’s Grace (Isaiah 64:6)
All our righteousness is like filthy rags before God.
b) Put Faith in Christ’s Finished Work (Philippians 3:9)
Be found in Him, not having your own righteousness but that which is by faith.
c) Cultivate Humility Before God (James 4:6)
God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.
d) Allow the Holy Spirit to Transform You Daily (Romans 12:2)
True righteousness involves a renewed mind and a changed heart.
Biblical Example: Paul the Apostle—Once self-righteous, he became an apostle of grace through the transforming power of Christ (Acts 9:1-6, Philippians 3:7-9).
CONCLUSION:
Self-righteousness is a hidden enemy of the soul. It looks holy but lacks the heart of God. It performs religious acts but fails to walk in love, humility, and true dependence on Christ. God is calling us to abandon our self-sufficiency and embrace His righteousness through faith in Jesus.
Only when we surrender our pride, repent of our own efforts, and receive His grace can we walk in true holiness and spiritual freedom. Let us not be like the Pharisee who trusted in himself but like the tax collector who cried for mercy and received justification.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, deliver me from every trace of self-righteousness in my life.
2. Father, clothe me with the righteousness of Christ.
3. Help me to walk in humility and dependence on You.
4. Expose every hidden pride and hypocrisy in my heart.
5. Let Your grace teach me to deny ungodliness and live righteously.
