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The concept of Self-righteousness in Christianity

Self-righteousness in Christianity is characterized by a sense of moral superiority that fosters pride and a lack of compassion for others perceived as unworthy. It entails feelings of superiority based on one's own moral standards while neglecting personal flaws. This attitude not only fails to recognize the need for Christ's sacrifice and grace but also inhibits genuine faith and understanding of forgiveness. Different interpretations exist across Christian denominations, but the core issue remains the disconnect between perceived righteousness and true humility.

Synonyms: Hypocrisy, Moral superiority, Self-satisfaction, Piety, Self-congratulation, Holier-than-thou attitude, Complacency

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Self-righteousness'

Christianity Books

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: Expositions of Holy Scripture

(1) The experience with the light leveled Saul's self-righteousness to the ground, revealing to him the glorified Jesus, bending his will and making it submissive.[1] (2) An attitude of moral superiority that results in a lack of true compassion or understanding of one's need for forgiveness.[2] (3) An attitude of moral superiority that can act as a barrier to genuine faith.[3] (4) The state of claiming righteousness based on one's actions, often referenced in contrast with true humility and divine authority.[4] (5) An attitude of moral superiority that results in rejecting the necessity of Christ’s sacrifice and grace.[5]

From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature

(1) The other, not less dangerous, deviation is that of self-righteousness—the proud fancy that all the favors Jehovah had shown to his people were merely in consequence of their own deservings.[6]

Significance in Protestantism (Christian movement emphasizing faith and scripture):
Protestantism Books

From: The Existence and Attributes of God

(1) The misguided belief that worship can be performed for one's self-benefit, rather than as a genuine act of reverence towards God.[7]

Protestantism (or simply the protestant church) is a major branch of Christianity originating from the Reformation in the 16th century, led by figures like Martin Luther. It emphasizes salvation by faith alone and the Bible as the ultimate authority. Variants of Protestantism include Lutheranism, Calvinism, Anglicanism, Methodism and Presbyterianism, each with unique practices but generally united by these core principles.

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Gospel of Thomas Commentary

(1) An attitude of moral superiority, often leading to a lack of recognition of one's own faults or consequences.[8]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.

Significance in Global Christian community:
Catholic Church Books

From: Summa Theologica (English translation)

(1) The state leading to severe punishment, countered by the moderation inherent in clemency.[9]

The Catholic Church is a global Christian community with over a billion members, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is led by the Pope and emphasizes the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist. Catholicism is a denomination centered on the teachings thereof. It has a rich theological and cultural heritage.