A Biblical Perspective on Self

"Nearly all the wisdom we possess, that is to say, true and sound wisdom consists in two parts: the knowledge of God and of ourselves."

Contents:

Introduction
Self-Esteem Analyzed
A Biblical Perspective
Conclusion
Appendix A: What should we think of gifts/abilities?
Appendix B: Has the self-esteem movement worked?
Appendix C: Suggested Reading

Introduction

For various reasons, people have an innate desire to know who they are, and what their place is in this universe. Some individuals are legitimately searching for identity and purpose; numerous factors have led them on a search for ultimate reality. Others of a more selfish bent are consumed with the desire to achieve self-gratification, committed to promoting a grandiose portrait of themselves. Popular culture has not helped in these matters (though it frequently claims expertise!); the popular emphasis on self-esteem and self-image has often fed the human propensity for self-indulgence. In the midst of this confusion over self-identity, what is the biblical portrait of man? How should we perceive ourselves? Is society's model of "self" an accurate one? Is it helpful? In a world that is all too willing to offer its secular advice, what should the Christian think?

One danger all believers encounter is the tendency to be swept along by the prevailing ideas of the moment, the beliefs (or non-beliefs) of contemporary culture. In our day, the philosophy of self-esteem has so infiltrated modern thinking, that even Christians accept its teachings uncritically. For many, the notion of self-love is treated as an essentially sound idea. But is the world's analysis of the human person (and psyche) truly effective; moreover, is it biblically acceptable? Should the secular model turn out to be flawed, what type of viewpoint should Christians put in its place? Are there any guiding principles? In this study, we will seek to answer these and related questions. In the process we hope not only to assess a popular theory, but also to formulate a biblical concept of self. Believers don't (or shouldn't) merely assume that societal standards are valid. Rather, the words and opinions we encounter must be brought to the touchstone of truth, the Bible. The Scriptures are the only sure norm by which we can separate truth from error. Likewise, they provide the divine resource we need if we are to understand our role before the One who is both Creator and Savior.

The Meaning of Self-Esteem

One problem with evaluating the self-esteem philosophy is the difficulty of coming up with a workable definition. For our purposes, we can define self-esteem as a satisfaction with oneself, a sense of personal worth, a belief that one is a good person. While some might wish to disagree with our definition, this seems to capture what many proponents of self-esteem mean when they make use of the expression. We must, however, acknowledge the ambiguity of the term; it is used by different people to convey a variety of thoughts. With this is mind, what should we think of self-esteem? Is it a good idea? Most importantly for the Christian, is it biblical?

Problems With the Concept of Self-Esteem

Though community leaders, educational institutions, and society at large have jumped on the self-esteem bandwagon, there are many problems with the entire concept. Even secular sources have occasionally recognized this fact (a list of some of these secular responses appears later in this booklet). For now, however, we will give only a cursory evaluation of the self-esteem movement. Among its weaknesses are the following:

(1) Self-Esteem is the child of modern psychology, and as such it has no basis by which it can claim legitimacy or efficacy. We have every right to ask: Why is self-esteem so important? And who says so? Further, how can we measure it? Self-esteem advocates have no ultimate criteria upon which they can defend their theories or techniques. If this is so, we are left with an idea that is—however good it may sound or feel to some—a useless and logically indefensible opinion. The Christian has a distinct advantage at this level for he bases his claims upon a standard of absolutes, the Bible. But more on this later.

(2) It seems to produce in many an egotistic attitude. If I am supposed to think so highly of myself, and if I believe that my self-concept is an essential prerequisite to successful living, I'm liable to take this freedom as an outright license to be self-centered. This, arguably, is a consequence of this psychologically-based belief system as it permeates our society today. Self-esteem is often a nice-sounding synonym for selfishness!

(3) The idea of always feeling good about yourself is not realistic. There are plenty of times when life does not turn out as well as we would like. And, frankly, there are many occasions when we have no right to feel good about ourselves at all. What kind of self-worth should we possess, after all, when we have wronged both God and man?

(4) An all-out desire to maintain a high self-esteem might also produce lower standards of achievement. If my inner self simply must be operating at a high level, the temptation will be to decrease my expectations. Within the system spawned by the self-esteem movement, the inability to meet the criteria for success is no real problem; all I have to do is create a standard that is easier to reach, one with which I feel comfortable. Lower standards enable me to maintain a measure of inner gratification. This way I am always able to feel good about myself. Of course, the result of such a system is easy to predict. Though not all take the so-called need for self-esteem to its logical extreme, it can indeed inhibit us from gaining a realistic perception of ourselves, for it would rather bend the rules than risk loosing by them. And those who never risk failure never allow themselves to strive for more than they have already accomplished (This is implicit in Paul's famous "press on toward the goal" statement in Philippians 3:14.).

5) The bottom-line for the Christian is that all of this preoccupation with self is an unbiblical notion. Of course, no reasonable person is opposed to giving words of encouragement to those who are feeling down. The problem with the self-esteem movement is that it goes beyond common sense to promote a belief in one's inherent worth. The history of this movement is not difficult to interpret: Over and again it has placed man at the center of life and has given him status far beyond what the biblical writers allow.

Scripture demands selflessness, self-forgetfulness and the like. Jesus' call involves self-denial and the crucifixion of personal desires. There is no part in His kingdom for those determined to esteem themselves since they are the very ones most unlikely to consider their sad condition before God. And to ignore personal sin is to take the urgency out of the gospel; only those who recognize their ailment are likely to seek a cure.

Clearly, the modern self-esteem theory strays far from the divine standard. This is not surprising, for a theory that abandons the Creator's words cannot help but produce a deformed perception of creation. But what should a believer think of himself? What is the Christian view of "self?"

A Biblical Perspective

Part of our task as Christians is to identify the dangers that we observe in society. Indeed, that is what we have briefly tried to do here. Yet pointing out wrongs is only part of our responsibility. There is a tendency to become negative, legalistic, and critical when we only consider the errors of others (Mat.7:1-5; Rom. 14:10, 13). Therefore, believers should seek also to discover (and promote) biblical solutions to modern dilemmas. While opposing the errors that abound, we must at the same time attempt to construct biblical alternatives. What does this entail?

Man's "Goodness"

Any Christian view of man must start with an overview of his history. This includes an understanding of man as seen from a number of different perspectives. The three basic stages that we might identify relate to his origin, fall, and restoration. In his original state, man was a truly good being. He could rightly be labeled the crown of God's creation. Initially, man was without any flaw; all that he did was pleasing to his Creator. And man's blessedness originated in the fact that he was made in God's image (Gen. 1:26). That is, he possessed a likeness to God; in some sense, he mirrored God. This is important for us to see: Man's value is derived from his Maker.

Then the fall occurred. At this juncture, Adam and his posterity were all plunged into a state of death (physical and spiritual). Since the fall, humanity has not looked to God. Instead man has consistently fled from God's presence and sought out his own devices (Rom. 3:9-18). Man's quest for autonomy, it appears, is nothing less then self-inflicted bondage to his own perverted desires. Since all men and women are born into this predicament, none of us can claim natural goodness of any sort, at least not when it concerns what matters most.

It should be noted, though, that even in this state man possesses a degree of relative goodness. While every part of man has been severely influenced by the fall, and though his heart is deeply contaminated by sin, man's constitution includes a measure of morality. Even sinful humanity is capable of kind acts and noble causes. Yet we must emphasize that these "good deeds" are the result ultimately of God's own goodness. It is the Lord who does not give man completely over to his own corruptions; it is the divine image that still surfaces—in albeit imperfect ways. In other words, even unregenerate man possesses a measure of relative goodness, but this goodness traces back to God alone.

We come, then, to the final step of the human equation, what I've called restoration. This restoration can be further broken down into various stages ("levels of glory," 2 Cor. 3:18) that lead successively (though not always smoothly) to what the Bible terms glorification. Our point here, however, is to see man's position in a broad sense, as restored through Jesus Christ. This involves a personal appropriation (by faith) of the merits of God's Son. This coming into a right standing before God (what is termed justification) involves an exchange. Our sin is given to the Savior (who bore the penalty of our wrongs at the cross); His perfect life is given to us (2 Cor. 5:21). Once again we can see that the "goodness" we possess upon conversion is that of Jesus Christ, the substitute.

In summary, we must keep in mind that each step of the way and in every possible scenario, God alone is the source of mankind's worth. Whether we are speaking of the relatively good deeds of fallen man or the positional standing of the believer, the fountainhead of all good things is the Lord God. This is the backdrop against which we can formulate a biblical view of man.

Grace: The Key Ingredient

If anything is clear to the student of the New Testament, it is this: Christianity is all about grace. We are rescued from sins dominion and penalty by grace. We are preserved forever by grace. Every good we encounter is the result of God's good hand (James 1:17). And what is grace but God's giving to us what we do not deserve, indeed, the opposite of what we deserve! The believer in Jesus Christ is one who has placed his trust not in himself, but in his Lord. Though we are bad, Jesus is good; and any who embrace Jesus receive His goodness (in a substitutionary sense). Since this is so, the feature of Christianity that should most affect the way we perceive ourselves is this matter of grace. To put it another way, the Christian is not to entertain thoughts of himself in a manner isolated from his God. All of life is to be viewed from the vantage point of God's gracious disposition toward us; our blessedness and joy are thoroughly grounded in the Lord Jesus Christ. It's not that the Christian doesn't perceive himself at all, as if that were an unholy thing to do. The Bible simply anchors our ultimate hopes to the One who saved us from our awful plight. To see ourselves aright is to do so in the light of God's undeserved and unfathomable favor. For the Christian, this foundational feature of grace issues in numerous other blessings.

Categories of Blessing

What good gifts of God are relevant to the way in which we perceive ourselves? The Bible provides a vast amount of material related to the human soul (Gr. Psuche). We will list several categories which accentuate the abundant blessings that God has bestowed on His people. These categories are avenues by which the human psyche (soul, inner man) is benefited in ways far greater than any self-oriented program offered by secular experts. As believers, our souls are nourished through a variety of biblical truths, among which are the following:

(1) The Status of Children

The NT declares at every point that we have been adopted into the household of God. We are all children of God through faith in Jesus Christ. Our status, therefore, is a most blessed one in that we have all the privileges of God's own kinsfolk. Jesus is (we must say it reverently) our elder brother; the ruler of the universe is our Father; heaven is our residence (even now according to the Apostle Paul, Eph. 1:3). In all this the Christian should feel himself to be a secure, and well-honored member of the body of Christ. "See how great a love the Father has bestowed upon us, that we should be called children of God; and such we are" (1 John 3:1)!

(2) A Perfect Standing

By this we do not mean to imply any goodness of our own. Instead, the Christian receives the perfect righteousness of Jesus Christ through faith (Rom. 3:21ff; 4:5ff; 5:1; Phil. 3:4-9). His life was lived perfectly and we receive His merits; our position before God is secured by virtue of what Christ has done for us. Paul's favorite way of describing this is through terms such as "in Him," "in Christ," "in the beloved," and "with Him" (e.g., Eph. 1:3ff, etc.). Though we are not worthy, He is; joined to Him we have a flawless standing. We are considered righteous before the eyes of God Himself. Believers need not fret; their situation is such that they are as perfect (positionally) as Jesus is!

(3) A Glorious Future

Though the world is filled with uncertainty, the Christian is given great hope. An important part of this is what theologians term final redemption, the future aspect of salvation. It is at this time that all of Christ's followers reach the final goal to which they were called (Rom. 8:29-30). Here is a wonderful thought: All true Christians will one day enter a state of bliss and joy that none this side of the grave can fathom (Rev. 21-22). Numerous blessings are already ours in Jesus Christ; yet, for all that we have, these are but a foretaste of the rich and perfected life that awaits us. Pertaining to our discussion, this whole doctrine of last things should influence the way we perceive our own situations. What grateful thoughts should fill our minds as we look forward with certainty and anticipation to a life of eternal happiness (I Thess. 4:16-18; Titus 2:13).

(4) A Full-Time Protector/Defender

All of us, whatever our station in life, have struggles with inner feelings of fear, uncertainty, and guilt. Often these are self-inflicted, the result of our own foolish behavior and choices. Let's face it; we all stumble in many ways. Even Christians have to deal with their heart's erratic responses. Consequently, many a believer expends great energy in introspection. While self-evaluation is an important component in the life of any godly person (1 Cor. 11:28; 2 Cor. 13:5), it helps no one to plunge relentlessly into the deep recesses of the human heart (Mk. 7:20ff). Such morbidity is disheartening, even depressing. Still, there is a way out for the Christian. The solution again is Jesus Christ who "always lives to make intercession" for the saints (Heb. 7:25). He, the Bible affirms, is the advocate of believers (cf. 1 John 2:1), and, as such, can defend us against any enemy. Whether it is the accuser of the brethren (i.e. Satan), or the cries of our own weakened consciences—Jesus is able to step-in on our behalf and soothe our troubled hearts. Even when we stumble, fall, or stray, the Lord is able to sustain us by interceding and pleading the merits of His completed work of atonement. He's on our side; and always He is ready to protect/defend His sheep.

(5) A Permanent Counselor/Helper

Society is literally teeming with therapies, counselors, and psychologists. These are but an acknowledgment that we need the assistance of others if we're going to make it in this life. The idea of counsel is not at all an unbiblical notion (though the world's form of counseling often is). Indeed, the Bible urges us to encourage (counsel) one another. But the Scriptures speak also of a counselor of a different sort, the Holy Spirit. He is the helper (Gr. paracletos) whom Jesus promised would be our guide, and strengthener (John 14:16-18, 26; 15:26; 16:7). The Spirit, as a member of the triune Godhead, is able to produce comprehensive change in the lives of Christians. His primary mode of operation, of course, is through the Word of which He is author. Through the Scriptures He teaches us, encourages us, and assures us of our standing before the Father (Rom. 8:14-17). Furthermore, it is His duty not only to convince us of the sin to which we so easily fall prey, but to lead us out of it, and to remind us that the Father loves us still. No one can measure the great impact the Holy Spirit has in the lives of His own. Because He is ours, we can live confident, productive lives before God. The Spirit powerfully and skillfully creates inner calm and peace.

(6) A Governed/Directed Life

The Bible is replete with examples and statements to the effect that God is sovereign. This means that God is truly in control of every detail of our lives. Nothing, but nothing, can thwart the divine purpose. Believers are assured that God is constantly working on their behalf to produce for them (and in them) that which ultimately benefits their cause. Obviously, this does not mean that we necessarily enjoy all that His providence permits (a frowning providence can be hard to endure; e.g., Mar. 14:33ff), but it is wonderful to know that He does care for His children. He works all things after His own design (Eph. 1:11), and for our best interests (Rom. 8:28). Though we do not always understand the unfolding details of His plan, we can be confident that He is too good to wrong us, and too wise to make an error (Gen. 50:20). Because our God is the ruler of heaven and earth, we can live securely. Nothing happens by chance; our loving Father is guiding the process of life to His own intended end, and for our eternal welfare.

(7) The Camaraderie of Equals

In God's kingdom, believers stand on equal footing. While there are levels of giftedness and honor, all Christians have—foundationally—the same testimony; we are all rebels whom God has graciously redeemed. Since this is so, believers should not engage in self-serving competition against their brothers. We are all one in Christ (Gal. 3:26-29); we share the same blessed heritage; any differences are the result of the sovereign hand of the Lord who dispenses gifts as He deems fit (I Cor. 12:11). Since we operate on a level playing field, we are able to let down our guard. Instead of seeking to get ahead, we can use the talents He has bestowed upon us for the good of others (I Cor. 12:1-7).

The Christian Church is meant to be the most relaxed of atmospheres. It is here where we should feel the security that comes from being joint heirs with Christ, and fellow-workers for His cause. These truths are liberating for the believer in that they afford us a position of equality in His kingdom, a place—with all true Christians—of immense privilege.

(8) A Sure Standard

Theories, philosophies, religious ideas—often they are changing, and usually they are baseless. Because of this fact, the world has to operate in an ever-flexible mode, never able to know much of anything (in the spiritual-moral realm) with certainty. Therefore, many object to the dogmatism of Christians who are convinced that there is a sure norm for living, the Bible. Yet such objection is precisely the reason why the "ologies" and "isms" of man are mostly ineffective, and sometimes harmful. Since God created man, He alone is able to perfectly define him, and set the parameters which make godliness and happiness possible. Only the Creator knows what is truly best for the creature.

God has spoken in the Scriptures. While no one possesses a perfect knowledge of the truth, we are able to sufficiently understanding the Bible's contents. Through study and prayer we extract and apply divine principles. In all this we can indeed be thankful that there is an infallible standard in the first place. Because God has given us this rich storehouse of truth, we find direction for living, criterion for determining proper action, and a guidebook for comprehending reality. Oh how wonderful it is to have God's sure Word at our fingertips. "How sweet are Your words to my taste! Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth" (Ps. 119:103)!

The Paradox of Self-Forgetfulness

When Jesus calls sinners into His kingdom, He summons them to a life of self-denial. He says to His followers: "take up your cross, deny yourself and follow Me" (Mark 8:34). The life of a disciple is one of selflessness and others-centered service. In other words, the believer's life is sometimes trying; the road can be rugged.

Though Jesus intended to show that following Him involved the losing of our "selves" (Mark 8:35), this sacrifice is not without reward. Far from it! God has promised great blessing—right now—for those who are willing to take Him at His Word. Jesus spoke to this when He said that multiplied joys would come to those who follow Him unreservedly (Mark 10:28-31). This is surely a puzzling thought, yet so very true. Countless believers have found that giving is getting when it pertains to Christ's kingdom. The believer lays aside his own privileges for the sake of Christ and others. As a result, his heart (his inner psyche, if you will) is flooded with contentment, happiness, confidence, and joy. For our part, the Christian life is to be one of self-forgetfulness. And those who deny themselves in such a manner will, paradoxically, be most blessed. Let the paradox begin!

Conclusion

Unfortunately, many today are being told to look within themselves in order to garner some degree of self-satisfaction. This pathway can lead to frustration and despair since man's heart is the source of his problems, not the answer to them (Jer. 17:9; Mark 7:20-23). In contrast, the Christian has a much deeper well from which he can draw ultimate happiness and purpose of life. Unlike the failing systems of psychology and the gurus of "self esteem," the Scriptures provide a sure basis for understanding God, the world in which we live, and ourselves.

We are a people whom God has created. As such, we think, feel, make determinations, and evaluate ourselves. We can say, then, that we do possess an inner psyche of sorts. How, though, should we view "self"? The NT position is that we should view ourselves Christocentrically. The Christian is to be one who operates from a divine viewpoint. This includes the realization that while we have no self-originated worth of which to speak, we can boast in the Lord (1 Cor. 1:30-31). In Christ we possess treasures beyond compare; nothing can separate us from God's love; no obstacle can interfere with the divine determination to sustain the inhabitants of God's kingdom. As we contemplate these things, our hearts are drawn irresistibly to that hub of divine mercy and grace, the cross of our Lord. Here we see the consummate demonstration of God's love for sinful man; it is at Golgotha where we find our primary motivation to love this One who so loved us (1 John 4:10ff). So the Christian life is to be consumed not with trying to elevate self. Instead, we must seek to become worthy selves, that is, people whose lives reflect the blessings we have received. As we maintain a worthy walk before God, an amazing thing happens: The God of all grace pours a sense of inner peace and contentment into our souls. Thus, a healthy inner psyche is the by-product of a life captivated with the glories of Jesus Christ (2 Cor. 3:17-18; Heb. 12:2; etc.). In Him we are "complete" (Col. 2:10); fullness of joy is already our possession. Did not Jesus say that this was part of what He came to give His people? His words warm our hearts: "I came that they might have life, and might have it more abundantly" (John 10:10)!