Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature:Stubbornness, in a biblical context, refers to an obstinate persistence in one's own ways, often in defiance of God's will or guidance. It is characterized by a refusal to change one's mind or course of action, even when confronted with divine truth or correction. The Bible frequently addresses stubbornness as a negative trait, associating it with rebellion and a hardened heart. Biblical References: 1. Old Testament Examples: · Pharaoh's Hardened Heart: One of the most notable examples of stubbornness is Pharaoh's refusal to let the Israelites go, despite the plagues that God sent upon Egypt. Exodus 7:13 states, "Still, Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had said." · Israel's Rebellion: The Israelites are often described as a stubborn people, particularly during their wilderness wanderings. In Deuteronomy 9:6 , Moses reminds them, "Understand, then, that it is not because of your righteousness that the LORD your God is giving you this good land to possess, for you are a stiff-necked people." 2. Warnings Against Stubbornness: · Proverbs and Wisdom Literature: The Book of Proverbs frequently warns against stubbornness, equating it with folly. Proverbs 29:1 cautions, "A man who remains stiff-necked after much reproof will suddenly be shattered beyond recovery." · Prophetic Rebukes: The prophets often rebuked Israel for their stubbornness. Jeremiah 7:24 laments, "Yet they did not listen or incline their ear, but followed the stubborn inclinations of their own evil hearts. They went backward and not forward." 3. New Testament Insights: · Spiritual Stubbornness: In the New Testament, stubbornness is seen as a barrier to spiritual growth and repentance. Romans 2:5 warns, "But because of your hard and unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of wrath, when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed." · The Pharisees: Jesus often confronted the Pharisees for their stubborn adherence to tradition over the commandments of God. In Mark 3:5 , Jesus, "looked around at them with anger, grieved by their hardness of heart." Theological Implications: Stubbornness is often linked to pride and self-reliance, which are contrary to the humility and submission that God desires from His people. It is seen as a spiritual condition that can lead to a separation from God, as it resists the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. The Bible encourages believers to cultivate a heart of flesh, responsive to God's leading, as opposed to a heart of stone. Practical Considerations: Believers are called to examine their hearts for any signs of stubbornness and to seek God's help in cultivating a spirit of obedience and humility. Prayer, repentance, and a willingness to be corrected by Scripture and fellow believers are essential in overcoming stubbornness. As James 4:7 advises, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Topical Bible Verses Proverbs 16:22Understanding is a wellspring of life to him that has it: but the instruction of fools is folly. Topicalbible.org Isaiah 63:17 Ezekiel 11:19 Greek 4643. sklerotes -- hardness ... obstinacy, perverseness. Cognate: 4643 -- hardness (literally, "hard from being "), ie stubborn, obstinate. See 4642 (). Word Origin ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4643.htm - 6k Library The Cost of Being Cruel and Stubborn A Stubborn Foe Routed. What Say Ye, O Minds Incredulous, Stubborn, Hardened? did that ... Stubborn Little Sammy. Consummation of Thomas the Apostle. Being Easily Entreated Conditions of Being Saved Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested ... The Children's Bible A Double Wrestling Match. Resources What does the Bible say about being poor? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about being a man? | GotQuestions.org How can a Christian woman avoid being a diva? | GotQuestions.org Being: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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