The empirical self encompasses the groupings of people, such as family, race, ethnicity, or sports teams, and objects like houses or cars, with which individuals identify so closely that these become extensions of their self-image. This natural human tendency can lead to friction when one becomes selfishly competitive or egotistical with their empirical self, prioritizing their identified groups or objects over others. For instance, rivalries among sports fans often extend beyond the field, resulting in conflicts simply because individuals have personally identified with different teams and view those outside their empirical selves as adversaries. In their limited perspectives, there is insufficient room for anything beyond what they identify with. This same empirical selfishness can manifest within spiritual communities, where individuals competitively align themselves with specific leaders or groups, creating division. While it is natural to identify with a particular teacher or community, such identification should not become a source of friction or competition with others who align differently. Our perspectives should be broad enough to embrace the diversity of those whom God has appointed for the edification of the Body of Christ. If we identify primarily with God and His purpose, we can acknowledge His work across the entire Body without suspicion or antagonism. However, if our empirical selves dominate, we risk fostering division and causing suffering to those around us.