Biblical Boasting in a Culture Addicted to Attention

Romans 5: 9-11 (NIV) Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! 10 For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! 11 Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.


The word "boast" here is  καυχάομαι (kaucháomai)
from some (obsolete) base akin to that of aucheo (to boast)

While there are instances in the Bible where people express gratitude and thanksgiving for their accomplishments or blessings, boasting is generally viewed as a negative trait. In fact, the Bible frequently warns against boasting and encourages humility. 

Here are a few examples: 

 Proverbs 27:2 - "Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips." 

 James 4:16 - "As it is, you boast in your arrogance; all such boasting is evil." 

 1 Corinthians 1:31 - "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord." 

 Galatians 6:14 - "But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world." 

 Therefore, while some forms of self-expression are permitted, boasting is not generally seen as a positive or desirable behavior in the Bible.

 In a culture of social media and an addiction to attention, boasting can become a common behavior.

 Social media platforms provide an easy way for people to showcase their accomplishments and seek validation from others. The constant need for attention and validation can lead to an increase in boasting behavior. Boasting on social media often takes the form of self-promotion, where people highlight their achievements, post pictures of themselves in desirable locations, or share details of their glamorous lifestyle. This behavior can be driven by a desire to impress others, gain social status, or simply seek attention. 

 The downside of this type of boasting is that it can create a culture of comparison and competition, leading to feelings of inadequacy or jealousy in those who feel they can't measure up. Additionally, boasting can also contribute to a lack of authenticity, as people may exaggerate or misrepresent themselves to get attention. 

 Overall, while social media can provide a platform for self-expression and sharing, it's important to be mindful of how much boasting is appropriate and whether it's contributing to a healthy or unhealthy culture of attention-seeking.

I still think we can participate in this cultural marketing platform to shine a light for Christ as well.

But it is very HARD to do... and even my desire to post about this, I have to admit that self promotion is very much in play!