Jesus Christ: Self-Denial or Self-Esteem

The church today has been greatly influenced by the doctrine of the worthiness of mankind and the need for self-love. Many of today's Christian authors warn that negative self-esteem is the basis of most psychological problems and that it even leads to sinful behavior. But the Apostle Paul warns us of this deception in Romans 12:3: For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgement, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.

Dr. Tyler demonstrates that self-esteem is not taught in the Scriptures, and by illustration uses the best example: Jesus Christ. As we look at Christ's words, miracles and parables, we clearly see that the proper pattern for life is self-denial and humility. Instead of self-love, our love should be directed at God and our neighbor.