The sin of comparative righteousness

A few years ago a friend of mine used the phrase comparative righteousness in pertaining to one who is finding faults in others in order to feel more self righteous to themselves in contrast to Where We should find righteousness which is through the faith of Christ the righteousness which is of God by faith.

I think it is often times good to do a self examination of our motives, and ask ourselves what righteousness are we trusting in.

Just some thoughts, not intended for anyone other than myself.

hi, well stated.jimp

When we get our eyes on men we are venturing into the areas of unbelief. Why do men compare themselves with others? Because they want favor from others and are figuring out, either how to conform to those that they are currying favor with or they want influence over a certain group of men. A man that is comparing himself with others and trying to get favor with other men is living in fear and unblelief. One of the first things that happened to me when I became a Christian is I was delivered from a spirit of fear and consequently the fear of man (peer pressure, etc). You cannot walk with God if you have a spirit of fear, holdng you captive to men's thoughts/ways.

Paul, also knew it was a crippling, debilitating place to be.

Great thread. Never heard it called "Comparative Righteousness". I think they are flattering themselves. Maybe the true name would be: Comparative Fear and Unbelief

2Co 10:12 For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.

If we fear no men or devil, we then we won't fear pleasing the Lord.
Pilgrim

Comparing ourselves with others is a great lowering of the bar which was never meant to be, nor ever could be, hurdled by self.

Another dangerous divergence from the path, is the comparison of self with self. As though self at anytime time had a good day of merit.