Compare Isaiah 19:14 with Romans 1:28. How does God respond to rebellion? Setting the Scene • Isaiah 19:14: “The LORD has poured into her a spirit of confusion; the leaders have made Egypt stagger in all she does, as a drunkard staggers through his own vomit.” • Romans 1:28: “Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, He gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done.” The Consistent Pattern: God Gives People Over • Both passages reveal the same divine response to persistent rebellion: God “gives” or “pours” people over to the very confusion and corruption they have chosen. • This is not passive indifference but deliberate judicial action—God honors human rejection of His rule by withdrawing restraining grace. • Additional echoes: – Psalm 81:11-12: “So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts.” – 2 Thessalonians 2:11: “God will send them a powerful delusion.” – Hosea 4:17: “Ephraim is joined to idols; leave him alone.” What Rebellion Produces • Mental and moral disorientation (Isaiah 19:14). • A “depraved mind”—twisted reasoning that justifies sin (Romans 1:28). • Social chaos: leadership failure, relational breakdown, cultural decay (Isaiah 19:15-17; Romans 1:29-32). • Spiritual blindness: inability to discern truth (2 Corinthians 4:4). Why God Responds This Way • Vindication of His holiness—He will not be mocked (Galatians 6:7). • Preservation of justice—sin carries real consequences (Proverbs 1:31). • Redemptive warning—experiencing the fruit of rebellion can awaken repentance (Luke 15:14-17). Living in Light of This Truth • Treasure the knowledge of God; cherish His Word (Psalm 119:11). • Pray for softened hearts before hardness sets in (Hebrews 3:12-13). • Proclaim the gospel that rescues from a depraved mind (2 Timothy 1:9-10). • Walk in humble obedience, knowing grace keeps us from the same fate (1 Corinthians 15:10). |
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