Topical Bible: Character of the Unrenewed Heart: Perverse

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Topical Encyclopedia

The concept of perversity in the unrenewed heart is a recurring theme in the Bible, illustrating the moral and spiritual corruption inherent in humanity apart from divine intervention. The term "perverse" often denotes a deliberate and obstinate deviation from what is considered right, good, or true according to God's standards.

Biblical Descriptions and Examples

1. Innate Corruption: The Bible frequently describes the unrenewed heart as inherently corrupt and inclined towards perversity. In Jeremiah 17:9, it is written, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" . This verse underscores the natural state of the human heart as deceitful and morally twisted, incapable of self-correction without divine aid.

2. Rejection of Wisdom: Proverbs often contrasts the wise with the perverse, highlighting the latter's rejection of wisdom and truth. Proverbs 12:8 states, "A man is praised according to his wisdom, but a perverse heart is despised" . This suggests that perversity is not only a moral failing but also a social one, leading to disdain and alienation.

3. Moral Deviation: The unrenewed heart is depicted as straying from the path of righteousness. In Isaiah 59:8, the prophet laments, "The way of peace they have not known, and there is no justice in their tracks. They have turned them into crooked paths; no one who treads on them will know peace" . This passage illustrates how perversity leads to a life devoid of peace and justice.

4. Stubbornness and Rebellion: Perversity is often linked with stubbornness and rebellion against God. In Deuteronomy 32:5, Moses describes the Israelites as a "perverse and crooked generation" , highlighting their repeated disobedience and resistance to God's commands.

5. Consequences of Perversity: The Bible warns of the dire consequences that befall those who persist in perversity. Proverbs 11:3 declares, "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the perversity of the treacherous destroys them" . This verse emphasizes that while integrity leads to guidance and safety, perversity results in destruction.

6. Contrast with the Renewed Heart: The New Testament offers a contrast between the unrenewed and renewed heart. In Ephesians 4:22-24, Paul exhorts believers to "put off your former way of life, your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be renewed in the spirit of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness" . This passage highlights the transformative power of God's grace in overcoming the perversity of the unrenewed heart.

Theological Implications

The perverse nature of the unrenewed heart underscores the necessity of divine grace for moral and spiritual renewal. It reflects the biblical teaching on the fallen state of humanity and the need for redemption through Jesus Christ. The Scriptures consistently call individuals to repentance and faith, offering the hope of a renewed heart and a life aligned with God's will.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 12:8
A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

An Address to the Regenerate, Founded on the Preceding Discourses.
... to persons of a very different character; and I ... the instances in which this perverse
heart of mine ... passions, while the soul continues unrenewed and unsanctified ...
/.../doddridge/practical discourses on regeneration/discourse x an address to.htm

The Doctrines of Grace do not Lead to Sin
... Straightway the unrenewed man seeks out artillery with which ... prove themselves to
be their superiors in character. ... in morals before grace gives a heart to love ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 29 1883/the doctrines of grace do.htm

An Examination of the Treatise of William Perkins Concerning the ...
... the Holy Spirit does not dwell in the unrenewed man. ... if the external means are of
such a character, that men ... would be sufficient for a change of heart, was not ...
/.../arminius/the works of james arminius vol 3/an examination of the treatise.htm