CONTEMPT

The Bible teaches several important lessons about contempt:

1. Contempt is sinful: The Bible teaches that contempt is a sinful attitude. In Matthew 5:22, Jesus warns against harboring contempt in one's heart, stating that anyone who insults or holds contempt for another person is liable to judgment. It emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect and love, rather than looking down on them or holding them in contempt.

2. Love and compassion towards others: The Bible teaches the importance of loving others and showing compassion. In 1 Peter 3:8, believers are encouraged to have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, and a humble mind. Holding contempt for others goes against these teachings and disrespects the inherent worth and dignity of every individual.

3. Judging others: The Bible warns against judging others. In Matthew 7:1-2, Jesus teaches, "Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you." This verse cautions against condemning or looking down on others, as it reminds believers that they too will be judged by the same standard they apply to others.

4. Humility: The Bible emphasizes the virtue of humility. Philippians 2:3-4 teaches believers to do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit but to have humility, considering others as more significant than themselves. Holding contempt for others often stems from a prideful and arrogant mindset, which is contrary to the biblical teachings on humility.

5. Forgiveness and reconciliation: The Bible teaches the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation. In Colossians 3:13, believers are urged to bear with one another and forgive each other, just as the Lord has forgiven them. Holding contempt for others can hinder the process of forgiveness and reconciliation, preventing healing and restoration in relationships.

Overall, the Bible teaches that contempt is a sinful attitude that goes against the teachings of love, compassion, humility, and forgiveness. It encourages believers to treat others with respect and kindness, recognizing the equal worth and dignity of every individual.

Yes, Jesus faced situations where he had to deal with contempt from others. Throughout his ministry, Jesus encountered various forms of contempt, rejection, and hostility from religious leaders, political authorities, and even some of his own disciples.

1. Religious leaders: Jesus often faced contempt from the religious leaders of his time, including the Pharisees and Sadducees. They criticized him for his teachings, questioned his authority, and accused him of blasphemy. They held contempt for Jesus because he challenged their traditional practices and exposed their hypocrisy.

2. Political authorities: Jesus also faced contempt from political authorities, particularly during his trial and crucifixion. Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, initially showed contemptuous indifference towards Jesus' case, even attempting to release him due to finding no guilt in him. However, under pressure from the crowd, Pilate eventually succumbed to their demands and allowed Jesus to be crucified.

3. Disciples' betrayal: Jesus also experienced contempt from one of his own disciples, Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him for thirty pieces of silver. This act of betrayal was a clear demonstration of contempt towards Jesus and his teachings.

In the face of contempt, Jesus responded with grace, humility, and love. He remained steadfast in his mission and teachings, never retaliating or responding in kind. Instead, he taught his disciples and followers to love their enemies, pray for those who persecute them, and respond with kindness and forgiveness.

One notable example is found in Luke 23:34, where, while being crucified, Jesus prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." This prayer demonstrated his willingness to extend forgiveness and compassion even to those who held contempt for him.

Overall, Jesus' response to contempt serves as an example for believers to respond with grace, love, and forgiveness in the face of hostility or contempt from others.

Here are some key verses from the Bible that touch on the theme of contempt:

1. Proverbs 14:21 (NIV): "Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor."

This verse highlights the negative consequences of despising or showing contempt towards others, emphasizing the importance of generosity and kindness instead.

2. Matthew 5:22 (NIV): "But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, 'Raca,' is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell."

In this verse, Jesus warns against showing contempt through derogatory or insulting language, emphasizing the need for love and reconciliation.

3. Psalm 123:3-4 (NIV): "Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy on us, for we have endured no end of contempt. We have endured no end of ridicule from the arrogant, of contempt from the proud."

This psalm expresses the plea for God's mercy in the face of enduring contempt and ridicule from the arrogant and proud.

4. Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV): "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."

These verses encourage believers to cultivate humility and value others above themselves, rejecting the attitude of contempt that arises from selfish ambition or conceit.

5. Romans 12:16 (NIV): "Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited."

This verse emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with others, rejecting pride and conceit, and embracing humility and equality.

These verses remind believers to reject contemptuous attitudes and instead cultivate love, humility, and respect towards others.

How do we heal from feelings of contempt 

Healing from feelings of contempt can be a personal and transformative process. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Reflect on your feelings: Begin by acknowledging and recognizing your own feelings of contempt. Take time to reflect on why you feel this way and what may have contributed to these emotions. Self-awareness is the first step towards healing.

2. Seek understanding: Try to understand the perspective and experiences of the person you feel contempt towards. This can involve practicing empathy and putting yourself in their shoes. Consider their background, struggles, and humanity, which can help soften your contemptuous feelings.

3. Practice forgiveness: Forgiveness is a powerful tool for healing. Choose to forgive the person you feel contempt towards, even if they haven't asked for forgiveness or shown remorse. Remember that forgiveness is not condoning their actions but releasing yourself from the burden of holding onto contempt.

4. Cultivate compassion: Foster a compassionate mindset towards others, including the person you feel contempt towards. Recognize that everyone makes mistakes and has their own struggles. Show kindness and understanding, even if it feels challenging at first.

5. Focus on personal growth: Use the experience of contempt as an opportunity for personal growth and self-reflection. Consider how you can learn and grow from this situation, and how you can become a better person moving forward.

6. Seek support: If healing from feelings of contempt becomes overwhelming or difficult, consider seeking support from trusted friends, family members, or a professional counselor. They can provide guidance, perspective, and help you navigate through the healing process.

Remember, healing takes time and patience. Be gentle with yourself as you work through these emotions and strive to cultivate a more compassionate and understanding mindset.

WWW.SAINTSUNITED.ORG