Topical Bible: Character of the Unrenewed Heart: Full of Evil Imaginations

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The unrenewed heart, as depicted in the Bible, is often characterized by its propensity for evil imaginations. This condition is a fundamental aspect of human depravity, illustrating the innate sinfulness and moral corruption that pervades humanity apart from divine intervention.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of the unrenewed heart being full of evil imaginations is rooted in several key biblical passages. In Genesis 6:5, the Berean Standard Bible states, "Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great upon the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was altogether evil all the time." This verse highlights the pervasive nature of evil within the human heart, emphasizing that it is not merely occasional but a constant inclination.

Similarly, Jeremiah 17:9 describes the heart's deceitful nature: "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure—who can understand it?" This passage underscores the depth of the heart's corruption, suggesting that its evil imaginations are both profound and inscrutable.

Manifestations of Evil Imaginations

The unrenewed heart's evil imaginations manifest in various forms, including idolatry, immorality, and rebellion against God. Romans 1:21-22 illustrates this progression: "For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools." Here, the apostle Paul describes how the rejection of God leads to futile thinking and darkened hearts, resulting in a life characterized by foolishness and idolatry.

In the New Testament, Jesus Himself addresses the issue of the heart's evil imaginations in Mark 7:21-23: "For from within the hearts of men come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, debauchery, envy, slander, arrogance, and foolishness. All these evils come from within, and these are what defile a man." This passage lists specific sins that originate from the heart, illustrating the breadth of its corrupt imaginations.

Theological Implications

The unrenewed heart's inclination toward evil imaginations has significant theological implications. It underscores the necessity of spiritual regeneration and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. Without divine intervention, the heart remains in its natural state of rebellion and sin. Ezekiel 36:26-27 promises this transformation: "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes and to carefully observe My ordinances."

Practical Considerations

Understanding the character of the unrenewed heart serves as a sobering reminder of the need for vigilance in the Christian life. Believers are called to guard their hearts and minds against the influence of evil imaginations. Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life." This exhortation highlights the importance of nurturing a heart aligned with God's will, through prayer, Scripture study, and the fellowship of believers.

In summary, the unrenewed heart, full of evil imaginations, is a central theme in the biblical narrative of human sinfulness. It serves as a stark reminder of the need for redemption and the transformative power of God's grace.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 6:5
And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 8:21
And the LORD smelled a sweet smell; and the LORD said in his heart, I will not again curse the ground any more for man's sake; for the imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth; neither will I again smite any more every thing living, as I have done.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 6:18
An heart that devises wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

God's Exhaustive Knowledge of Man. [*Continued]
... Hence men generally, and unrenewed men always, are unacquainted with ... will have to
make of human character in the day ... not desire to know his own heart, and that ...
/.../shedd/sermons to the natural man/gods exhaustive knowledge of man 2.htm

Exposition of the Doctrines of Grace
... in the existence of God"in his righteous character and perfect ... The heart is averse
to all that is good, and ... this"when we were in an unrenewed depraved state ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 7 1861/exposition of the doctrines of.htm