Another dangerous practice that, throughout the centuries, has seriously harmed the Lord’s church is arrogance among brethren. This term describes an attitude of excessive pride in which a person considers themselves superior to others and acts with contempt, self-sufficiency, and an evident lack of humility. In this condition, the individual comes to believe that they do not need anyone’s help, that they are always right, and that their opinions should prevail over those of others.

Arrogance is not merely a negative character trait; it is a spiritual condition that deeply affects the Christian’s relationship with God and with others. It is a problem of the heart that, if not corrected, can cause great damage within the body of Christ.

An arrogant person displays several clear characteristics. They consider themselves superior to others, reject correction (Proverbs 12:15), despise the opinions of others, and constantly seek to exalt themselves (Matthew 23:12). Additionally, they have difficulty recognizing their own faults, lack genuine love for all (1 Corinthians 13:4-5), and in many cases seek the approval of people rather than that of God (Galatians 1:10). Their spiritual life can become superficial, honoring God only with their lips (Matthew 15:8), while their heart remains far from Him.

Synonyms for this attitude include pride, haughtiness, arrogance, vanity, conceit, boastfulness, and insolence. All these terms reflect different facets of the same problem: a heart that has not fully submitted to the will of God.

From a biblical perspective, arrogance has its root in self-sufficiency and in forgetting our total dependence on God. Scripture teaches in 1 Corinthians 4:7 that we have nothing that we have not received, which should produce in us a constant attitude of humility. However, when a person loses sight of this truth, they begin to trust in themselves and elevate themselves above others.

The Bible speaks clearly about the seriousness of this sin. In Proverbs 8:13 we are reminded that God hates pride and arrogance. Likewise, Proverbs 16:18 warns that pride goes before destruction. The New Testament also emphasizes this truth by declaring that God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). Even in the teaching of Jesus, as seen in Luke 18:9-14, it is clearly shown that the arrogant heart is not justified before God.

The consequences of arrogance within the church are devastating. This attitude produces divisions, strife, and rivalries among brethren (1 Corinthians 1:10). It also fosters envy and vain glory (Galatians 5:26), weakening the spiritual unity that should characterize God’s people (Ephesians 4:3). In many cases, congregations are affected not so much by doctrinal error, but by proud attitudes that hinder harmony and spiritual growth.

In light of this reality, it is necessary for the Christian to take steps to prevent arrogance from taking root in the heart. Prayer is essential, asking God for wisdom and a humble spirit (James 1:5-6). It is also vital to practice sincere love toward all brethren (John 13:34-35; Romans 12:9), avoiding vain glory and learning to glory only in the Lord (Galatians 6:14). Humility must be practiced daily, as taught in Micah 6:8, always remembering our total dependence on God (John 15:5).

Finally, the biblical exhortation is clear: we must guard our hearts with all diligence (Proverbs 4:23), for out of it spring the issues of life. Arrogance is a destructive spiritual disease that can infiltrate silently, but humility—cultivated through a sincere relationship with God—strengthens the church and glorifies the Lord.

Arrogance has no place in the life of a faithful Christian. Only when we learn to submit to God and to consider others as better than ourselves can we live in harmony, grow spiritually, and truly reflect the character of Christ.