In contrast to the modern tendency to glorify the self, Scripture urges us to beware of the many self-sins to which we are prone.

These include:

1. Self-righteousness or self-trust; as the great hindrance to the acceptance of God’s saviour and salvation (Rom 10:1-3).

2. Self-dependence or self-help. Even after conversion there is a constant tendency to rely upon our own efforts (Gal 2:20; Zech 4:6; Jn 15:4-6).

3. Self-seeking (Jer 45:5; 1 Cor 10:33). Constant proneness also to seek self-promotion, advancement, emolument (Mt 16:24-25).

4. Self-pleasing. To set before ourselves our own gratification and indulgence is perilous to spiritual life (Rom 15:1-3).

5. Self-will. The center of all self life is a carnal, selfish will; and hence the need of its absolute renunciation (James 4:13-15; 1 Pet 4:2; Jn 6:38).

6. Self-defense. We find it hard to abstain from vindicating and justifying ourselves instead of leaving it to God (1 Pet 2:12; 2:15; 2:19-23; 4:19).

7. Self-glory. All seeking of human praise detracts from the glory of God and is idolatrous (Dan 5:23; Jn 8:50; 1 Cor 10:31; Gal 6:14).

(A.T. Pierson, Knowing the Scriptures)