Topical Bible: Character of the Unrenewed Heart: Despiteful

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The term "despiteful" refers to a disposition marked by malice, contempt, and a deliberate intention to harm or belittle others. In the context of the unrenewed heart, it signifies a state of moral and spiritual corruption that stands in opposition to the virtues espoused by Christian teachings. The despiteful heart is one that has not been transformed by the renewing power of the Holy Spirit and remains entrenched in sin and rebellion against God.

Biblical References:

1. Romans 1:28-30 : "Furthermore, since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, He gave them up to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done. They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed, and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant, and boastful; they invent new forms of evil; they disobey their parents."

In this passage, the Apostle Paul describes the characteristics of those who have rejected God and are given over to a depraved mind. The term "insolent" in this context can be understood as synonymous with "despiteful," highlighting a heart that is arrogant and contemptuous towards others and God.

2. Ezekiel 25:15-17 : "This is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Because the Philistines acted in vengeance, taking vengeance with malice in their hearts, and with ancient hostility sought to destroy Judah, therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: I will stretch out My hand against the Philistines, and I will cut off the Cherethites and destroy the remnant along the coast. I will execute great vengeance against them with furious reproofs. Then they will know that I am the LORD, when I lay My vengeance upon them.’"

Here, the Philistines are condemned for their malice and ancient hostility, which are manifestations of a despiteful heart. Their actions are driven by a deep-seated contempt and desire for revenge, illustrating the destructive nature of such a disposition.

3. Proverbs 6:16-19 : "There are six things that the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to Him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that run swiftly to evil, a false witness who gives false testimony, and one who stirs up discord among brothers."

The despiteful heart is closely related to several of these detestable traits, particularly a heart that devises wicked schemes and one that stirs up discord. Such a heart is characterized by a deliberate intention to harm others and disrupt harmony, reflecting a profound moral corruption.

Theological Implications:

The despiteful heart is emblematic of humanity's fallen nature, a condition that is in dire need of redemption and transformation. It stands in stark contrast to the fruits of the Spirit, which include love, kindness, and gentleness (Galatians 5:22-23). The presence of a despiteful heart indicates a life that is not submitted to the lordship of Christ and is resistant to the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit.

The Scriptures consistently warn against the dangers of harboring a despiteful heart, as it leads to actions that are contrary to God's will and destructive to both the individual and the community. The call to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ is a call to abandon such a heart and embrace a new life characterized by love, humility, and service to others.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ezekiel 25:15
Thus said the Lord GOD; Because the Philistines have dealt by revenge, and have taken vengeance with a despiteful heart, to destroy it for the old hatred;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Rom. I. 28
... said, "According to thy hardness and impenitent heart thou treasurest ... But of such
character God is not. ... he chose the word sarx to denote unrenewed human nature ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily v rom i 28.htm