Overview
The Bible addresses self-examination across 23 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in Psalms, 1 Corinthians and Galatians. Closely related themes include Sin, Eucharist, Righteousness and Sin (1). Figures whose stories touch this theme include Jesus.
Key Bible verses about self-examination
Old Testament
Psalms
Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.
Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.
Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.
I call to remembrance my song in the night: I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit made diligent search.
I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies.
Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. wicked: Heb. way of pain, or, grief
Jeremiah
New Testament
1 Corinthians
Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.
But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.
For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.
Galatians
1 John
For if our heart condemn us God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.
Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God.
And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.
People in the Bible and self-examination
Biblical figures whose stories intersect with this theme.
In the Bible dictionary
Studying self-examination for yourself
- Begin with Job 13:23, then read the passages below in canonical order.
- Compare how Psalms, 1 Corinthians and Galatians each treat the theme.
- Consider the lives of Jesus and how their stories intersect with it.
- Widen the study to related themes: Sin, Eucharist, Righteousness and Sin (1).
Frequently asked questions
What does the Bible say about self-examination?
The Bible addresses self-examination across 23 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in Psalms, 1 Corinthians and Galatians. Closely related themes include Sin, Eucharist, Righteousness and Sin (1). Figures whose stories touch this theme include Jesus.
How many Bible verses are about self-examination?
The Bible references self-examination in 23 verses (King James Version).
Where does the Bible first mention self-examination?
In canonical order, the first of these passages is Job 13:23: “How many are mine iniquities and sins? make me to know my transgression and my sin.”
Which people in the Bible are associated with self-examination?
Jesus.
Preach & teach
Outline a sermon or build a study series on self-examination.
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