Topical Encyclopedia Obduracy, or hardness of heart, is a spiritual condition characterized by an individual's resistance to God's will, truth, and guidance. This condition is frequently addressed in the Bible, where it is depicted as a significant barrier to spiritual growth and relationship with God. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and warnings concerning the dangers of a hardened heart.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, the concept of hardness of heart is often associated with stubbornness and rebellion against God. One of the most notable examples is Pharaoh's hardened heart during the Exodus narrative. Despite witnessing numerous miracles and plagues, Pharaoh repeatedly refused to release the Israelites from bondage. Exodus 7:13 states, "Still, Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had said." The Israelites themselves are frequently admonished for their hardness of heart. In Psalm 95:8, the psalmist warns, "Do not harden your hearts as you did at Meribah, as you did that day at Massah in the wilderness." This verse refers to the Israelites' lack of faith and trust in God despite His continuous provision and guidance. New Testament References In the New Testament, Jesus often addresses the issue of hardness of heart, particularly among the religious leaders of His time. In Mark 3:5, Jesus is described as being grieved by the hardness of their hearts: "And looking around at them with anger, grieved by their hardness of heart, He said to the man, 'Stretch out your hand.' And he stretched it out, and his hand was restored." The Apostle Paul also speaks to the condition of a hardened heart in his epistles. In Romans 2:5, he 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." Here, Paul emphasizes the consequences of remaining unrepentant and resistant to God's truth. Spiritual Implications The Bible consistently portrays a hardened heart as a serious spiritual ailment that can lead to separation from God. It is often linked with unbelief, pride, and a refusal to acknowledge one's need for repentance and transformation. Hebrews 3:12-13 cautions believers, "See to it, brothers, that none of you has a wicked heart of unbelief that turns away from the living God. But exhort one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness." Conclusion The Scriptures call believers to remain vigilant against the dangers of obduracy. A soft and responsive heart is essential for a vibrant relationship with God, characterized by humility, repentance, and obedience. As believers seek to cultivate a heart that is open to God's leading, they are encouraged to heed the warnings of Scripture and to rely on the Holy Spirit for transformation and renewal. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 36:15,16And the LORD God of their fathers sent to them by his messengers, rising up betimes, and sending; because he had compassion on his people, and on his dwelling place: Nave's Topical Index Psalm 95:8-11 Proverbs 1:24-31 Proverbs 29:1 Hebrews 3:8,15 Hebrews 4:7 Revelation 9:20,21 Library Homilies on the Gospel of John. The Miracles part i Resources Obduracy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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