The term "stiffhearted" is used in the Bible to describe individuals or groups who are obstinate, stubborn, and resistant to God's guidance and commandments. This condition of the heart is often associated with rebellion against God and a refusal to heed His word. The concept is closely related to being "hard-hearted" or "stiff-necked," terms frequently used in Scripture to denote a similar spiritual condition.

Biblical References:

1. Ezekiel 2:4 : "The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stiffhearted. Say to them, ‘This is what the Lord GOD says.’" In this passage, God is speaking to the prophet Ezekiel, commissioning him to deliver His message to the Israelites, who are described as "obstinate and stiffhearted." This characterization underscores their resistance to prophetic warnings and divine instruction.

2. Ezekiel 3:7 : "But the house of Israel will not be willing to listen to you, for they are not willing to listen to Me, because all the house of Israel is obstinate and hardhearted." Here, God reiterates the stubbornness of the Israelites, highlighting their unwillingness to listen to both the prophet and God Himself. This passage emphasizes the spiritual condition that prevents them from receiving God's message.

Theological Implications:

The stiffhearted condition is indicative of a deeper spiritual malaise, where individuals or communities are closed off to the transformative power of God's word. This resistance is not merely a matter of intellectual disagreement but is rooted in a willful defiance and pride that blinds them to the truth. The Bible often portrays this condition as a significant barrier to experiencing God's blessings and guidance.

Moral and Spiritual Lessons:

1. Call to Repentance: The depiction of the stiffhearted serves as a warning and a call to repentance. It urges believers to examine their own hearts for any signs of stubbornness against God's will. The Bible encourages a posture of humility and openness to God's correction and leading.

2. Consequences of Stubbornness: The stiffhearted often face dire consequences due to their refusal to submit to God's authority. Throughout Scripture, such obstinacy leads to judgment and discipline, as seen in the history of Israel. This serves as a cautionary tale for all believers to remain pliable and responsive to God's voice.

3. Role of Prophets and Leaders: The presence of stiffhearted individuals highlights the critical role of prophets and spiritual leaders who are called to speak truth, even in the face of resistance. Their perseverance in delivering God's message is essential for calling people back to faithfulness.

Practical Application:

Believers are encouraged to cultivate a heart that is sensitive to God's word and responsive to His Spirit. This involves regular self-examination, prayer, and a willingness to change when confronted with divine truth. The community of faith is called to support one another in this endeavor, fostering an environment where hearts remain soft and receptive to God's leading.Stiffhearted (1 Occurrence)

Ezekiel 2:4
For they are impudent children and stiffhearted. I do send thee unto them; and thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD.
(KJV ASV)

Stiffhearted (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Stiffhearted (1 Occurrence). Ezekiel 2:4 For they
are impudent children and stiffhearted. I do send thee ...
/s/stiffhearted.htm - 6k

Brazen-faced (2 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 2:4 And the children are impudent and stiffhearted: I do sent thee unto
them; and thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the Lord Jehovah. (See JPS YLT). ...
/b/brazen-faced.htm - 7k

Stiffens (2 Occurrences)

/s/stiffens.htm - 6k

Stiff-hearted (1 Occurrence)
Stiff-hearted. Stiffhearted, Stiff-hearted. Stiffnecked . Noah Webster's
Dictionary ... (WEB JPS BBE). Stiffhearted, Stiff-hearted. Stiffnecked . Reference ...
/s/stiff-hearted.htm - 6k

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