Topical Encyclopedia Definition: Judicial blindness refers to a spiritual condition where individuals or groups are divinely permitted to remain in a state of spiritual ignorance or insensitivity as a consequence of persistent unbelief or disobedience. This concept is rooted in the biblical narrative, where God allows or causes certain people to be unable to perceive spiritual truths as a form of judgment. Biblical Instances: 1. Pharaoh's Heart Hardened: One of the earliest examples of judicial blindness is found in the account of Pharaoh during the Exodus. Despite witnessing numerous signs and wonders performed by God through Moses, Pharaoh's heart was hardened. The Bible states, "But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the LORD had said to Moses" (Exodus 9:12). This hardening is seen as a form of judicial blindness, where Pharaoh's persistent refusal to acknowledge God led to a divinely sanctioned inability to see the truth. 2. Israel's Rejection of the Messiah: In the New Testament, judicial blindness is evident in the response of many Israelites to Jesus Christ. Despite His teachings and miracles, many did not believe in Him. The Apostle John writes, "For this reason they were unable to believe. For again, Isaiah says: 'He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, so that they cannot see with their eyes, and understand with their hearts, and turn, and I would heal them'" (John 12:39-40). This passage references Isaiah's prophecy and highlights the spiritual blindness that befell those who rejected Jesus. 3. Paul's Teaching on Israel: The Apostle Paul addresses the concept of judicial blindness in his epistle to the Romans. He explains that Israel's failure to recognize Jesus as the Messiah was part of God's sovereign plan. Paul writes, "As it is written: 'God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that could not see and ears that could not hear, to this very day'" (Romans 11:8). This blindness serves a purpose in God's redemptive history, allowing the Gentiles to receive the gospel. Theological Implications: Judicial blindness underscores the seriousness of rejecting God's revelation. It serves as a warning that persistent unbelief can lead to a state where one is no longer able to perceive spiritual truths. This condition is not arbitrary but is a response to human choices and attitudes towards God. It highlights God's sovereignty in judgment and His righteous response to human rebellion. Related Concepts: · Hardening of the Heart: Often associated with judicial blindness, the hardening of the heart is a process where individuals become increasingly resistant to God's truth. This can be self-imposed or divinely enacted as a form of judgment. · Spiritual Discernment: In contrast to judicial blindness, spiritual discernment is the ability to perceive and understand spiritual truths. It is a gift from God, often associated with the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. · Repentance and Restoration: While judicial blindness is a severe condition, the Bible also offers hope for repentance and restoration. God's desire is for all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9), and He is willing to restore those who turn back to Him in faith and obedience. Conclusion: Judicial blindness serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of rejecting God's truth. It emphasizes the importance of responding to God's revelation with faith and obedience, lest one falls into a state of spiritual insensitivity. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Judicial BlindnessJUDICIAL BLINDNESS joo-dish'-al. Library Epistle Lxiii. To Epictetus and to the Congregation of Assur?? ... The Extension of the Church Throughout the World How to Make Use of Christ as the Truth, when Error Prevaileth, and ... The Research after Definite Truth Enjoined on us when we have ... The Title of the Book. Claim of Judicial Investigation. The Prince of Life The Progress of the Gospel from the Death of Christ to the Death ... Are You Prepared to Die? Concluding Word of Consolation. Doxology. Resources What does the Bible say about corporal punishment as practiced by governments? | GotQuestions.orgWhy do we need to confess our sins if they have already been forgiven (1 John 1:9)? | GotQuestions.org What is the difference between laws, commands, commandments, decrees, and statutes? | GotQuestions.org Judicial: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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