📖 Biblical Definition
All excellency finds its source in God. Paul counted everything loss "for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord" (Philippians 3:8). Peter declares we show forth God's excellencies (1 Peter 2:9). Paul insists "the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us" (2 Corinthians 4:7). Human excellency is always derivative — a reflection of God's perfection.
📜 Webster 1828 Definition
The state of possessing good qualities in an eminent degree; eminence in virtue or worth.
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EX'CELLENCY, n. 1. The state of excelling in anything. 2. A valuable quality. Note: Biblically, God is the source and standard of all excellency.
📖 Key Scripture
• Philippians 3:8 — "I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord."
• 1 Peter 2:9 — "That ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness."
• Philippians 4:8 — "Whatsoever things are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report... think on these things."
• 2 Corinthians 4:7 — "That the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us."
⚠️ Modern Corruption
Excellency has been secularized into personal achievement and severed from its divine source.
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Modern culture celebrates excellence as self-generated personal achievement. Biblical excellency is God-derived. When we celebrate human excellence without acknowledging its divine source, we commit the error of Romans 1: refusing to glorify God for what He has given.
Usage
• "The excellency Paul counted above all things was not career success but the knowledge of Christ Jesus His Lord."
• "Biblical excellency is not self-exaltation but faithful stewardship of God-given gifts for His glory."