Topical Encyclopedia Insurrection, defined as a violent uprising against an authority or government, is a theme that appears in various contexts throughout the Bible. The Scriptures provide insights into the nature of rebellion, its consequences, and the divine perspective on such actions.Old Testament References: 1. Korah's Rebellion: Numbers 16:1-35 details the insurrection led by Korah, Dathan, and Abiram against Moses and Aaron. This rebellion against divinely appointed leadership resulted in severe judgment, as the earth opened up and swallowed the rebels. This passage underscores the seriousness with which God views rebellion against His ordained leaders. 2. Absalom's Revolt: In 2 Samuel 15-18, Absalom, the son of King David, leads a rebellion against his father. This insurrection is marked by deceit and manipulation, ultimately leading to Absalom's death. The narrative highlights the destructive nature of rebellion and the heartache it brings to families and nations. 3. Sheba's Rebellion: 2 Samuel 20 recounts the insurrection led by Sheba, a Benjamite, who sought to divide the kingdom of Israel. His rebellion was swiftly quelled, illustrating the futility of rising against God's anointed king. New Testament References: 1. Barabbas: In the New Testament, Barabbas is mentioned as a notorious prisoner involved in an insurrection (Mark 15:7, Luke 23:19). The crowd's choice to release Barabbas instead of Jesus during the Passover feast highlights the moral blindness and chaos that can accompany rebellion. 2. Warnings Against Rebellion: Romans 13:1-2 provides a clear directive regarding submission to governing authorities: "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." This passage emphasizes the divine mandate to respect and submit to established authorities. 3. Rebellion in the Last Days: 2 Thessalonians 2:3 speaks of a future rebellion, or "apostasy," that will precede the return of Christ. This eschatological insurrection is associated with the rise of the "man of lawlessness," indicating a time of great spiritual and moral upheaval. Theological Insights: The Bible consistently portrays insurrection as an act of defiance against God's order and authority. Rebellion is often linked with pride, deceit, and a rejection of divine sovereignty. The consequences of insurrection are depicted as severe, both in temporal and spiritual terms. The Scriptures call believers to a posture of humility, submission, and trust in God's sovereign plan, even in the face of unjust or oppressive human authorities. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 64:2Hide me from the secret counsel of the wicked; from the insurrection of the workers of iniquity: Nave's Topical Index Library The General Conference of 1836 The Life of the Honourable Archibald Campbel Marquis of Argyle. The Counsel of Gamaliel. English Congregational Creeds. The Middle Colonies: the Jerseys, Delaware, and Pennsylvania --The ... That the Employing Of, and Associating with the Malignant Party ... Chapter iv. Introductory Note to the Epistle of Barnabas Conflicts of the Church with Public Wrongs. The Third Part of the Articles. Resources What does the Bible say about sedition? | GotQuestions.orgHow long was Jesus on the cross? | GotQuestions.org Who was Barabbas in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Insurrection: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |