Topical Bible: Character of the Wicked: Stiff-Hearted

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The term "stiff-hearted" is often used in the Bible to describe individuals who are obstinate, unyielding, and resistant to God's will and commandments. This characteristic is frequently associated with the wicked, who persist in their rebellion against God despite His calls for repentance and obedience.

Biblical References:

1. Ezekiel 2:4 : "The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stiff-hearted. Say to them, ‘This is what the Lord GOD says.’" In this passage, God describes the Israelites as a rebellious nation, highlighting their stubbornness and unwillingness to heed His words. The term "stiff-hearted" underscores their resistance to divine authority and their persistent disobedience.

2. Exodus 7:13 : "Still, Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had said." Although the term "stiff-hearted" is not explicitly used here, Pharaoh's hardened heart exemplifies the same characteristic. His refusal to release the Israelites, despite witnessing God's miraculous signs, illustrates the obstinacy and defiance typical of the wicked.

3. Zechariah 7:12 : "They made their hearts like flint and would not listen to the law or to the words that the LORD of Hosts had sent by His Spirit through the earlier prophets. Therefore great anger came from the LORD of Hosts." This verse portrays the people as making their hearts hard like stone, a metaphor for their stubbornness and rejection of God's messages delivered through His prophets.

Characteristics of the Stiff-Hearted:

· Resistance to God's Word: The stiff-hearted are characterized by their refusal to listen to or accept God's commandments and teachings. They often reject the guidance and correction offered by the prophets and the Scriptures.

· Pride and Self-Reliance: A stiff-hearted individual often exhibits pride, relying on their own understanding and wisdom rather than submitting to God's authority. This pride leads to a lack of humility and an unwillingness to repent.

· Persistence in Sin: Despite warnings and consequences, the stiff-hearted continue in their sinful ways. Their obstinacy prevents them from turning away from wickedness and seeking God's forgiveness.

· Spiritual Blindness: The stiff-hearted are often spiritually blind, unable to perceive the truth of God's word and the reality of their own sinful condition. This blindness further entrenches them in their rebellion.

Consequences:

The Bible warns of severe consequences for those who are stiff-hearted. Their resistance to God leads to spiritual decay and ultimately, divine judgment. As seen in Zechariah 7:12, God's anger is kindled against those who harden their hearts, resulting in separation from His blessings and presence.

Examples in Scripture:

· Pharaoh of Egypt: As mentioned, Pharaoh's hardened heart serves as a prime example of stiff-heartedness. His repeated refusals to heed Moses' warnings brought about devastating plagues upon Egypt.

· The Israelites in the Wilderness: Throughout their journey, the Israelites frequently displayed stiff-heartedness, grumbling against God and Moses, and turning to idolatry. Their stubbornness resulted in a prolonged journey and the loss of an entire generation before entering the Promised Land.

The stiff-hearted, as depicted in the Bible, embody a profound resistance to God's will, resulting in spiritual peril and divine retribution. Their example serves as a cautionary tale for all believers to remain humble, receptive, and obedient to the Lord.

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Ezekiel 2:4
For they are impudent children and stiff hearted. I do send you to them; and you shall say to them, Thus said the Lord GOD.
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The Greater Prophets.
... a mirror for all time, in which wicked nations may ... reputation, as well as of the
character of his ... nation;" to "impudent children and stiff-hearted," with the ...
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