Topical Bible: Heart: The Unregenerate is Judicially Hardened

◄ Heart: The Unregenerate is Judicially Hardened ►

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In biblical theology, the concept of the heart is central to understanding the spiritual condition of humanity. The heart, in Scripture, often represents the inner being of a person, encompassing the mind, will, and emotions. It is the seat of moral and spiritual life. The unregenerate heart, in particular, is described as being judicially hardened, a state that reflects both human rebellion and divine judgment.

Judicial Hardening Defined

Judicial hardening refers to the process by which God, in response to persistent unbelief and rebellion, allows or causes an individual's heart to become increasingly resistant to His truth and grace. This hardening is both a consequence of human sin and an act of divine judgment. It is important to note that this hardening does not absolve individuals of responsibility; rather, it confirms them in their chosen path of disobedience.

Biblical Examples

One of the most prominent examples of judicial hardening is found in the account of Pharaoh during the Exodus. The narrative repeatedly states that Pharaoh's heart was hardened, both by his own actions and by God. Exodus 9:12 states, "But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had told Moses." This hardening served to demonstrate God's power and to fulfill His purposes in delivering Israel.

Similarly, in the New Testament, the Apostle Paul speaks of a hardening that has come upon Israel. In Romans 11:7-8 , Paul writes, "What then? What Israel was seeking, it failed to obtain, but the elect did. The others were hardened, 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.'" This hardening is seen as part of God's sovereign plan, allowing the Gentiles to receive the gospel.

Theological Implications

The doctrine of judicial hardening underscores the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine justice. It serves as a sobering reminder that persistent rejection of God can lead to a state where repentance becomes increasingly difficult. Hebrews 3:13 warns believers, "But exhort one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness."

Furthermore, judicial hardening highlights the sovereignty of God in salvation. While human beings are responsible for their sin, it is ultimately God who softens or hardens hearts according to His will. Romans 9:18 states, "Therefore God has mercy on whom He wants to have mercy, and He hardens whom He wants to harden."

Pastoral Considerations

For pastors and teachers, the concept of judicial hardening is a call to earnest prayer and evangelism. It is a reminder of the urgency of the gospel message and the need for individuals to respond to God's call while there is still opportunity. The reality of a hardened heart should drive believers to intercede for those who are resistant to the gospel, trusting in God's power to transform even the hardest of hearts.

In summary, the unregenerate heart that is judicially hardened is a profound biblical theme that reveals the interplay between human sinfulness and divine sovereignty. It serves as both a warning and a call to action for those who seek to proclaim the truth of God's Word.

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Exodus 4:21
And the LORD said to Moses, When you go to return into Egypt, see that you do all those wonders before Pharaoh, which I have put in your hand: but I will harden his heart, that he shall not let the people go.
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Joshua 11:20
For it was of the LORD to harden their hearts, that they should come against Israel in battle, that he might destroy them utterly, and that they might have no favor, but that he might destroy them, as the LORD commanded Moses.
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Isaiah 6:10
Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed.
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Acts 28:26,27
Saying, Go to this people, and say, Hearing you shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing you shall see, and not perceive:
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