Topical Bible: Character of the Unrenewed Heart: Prone to Depart from God

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The unrenewed heart, as depicted in the Scriptures, is inherently inclined to stray from the ways of God. This tendency is a fundamental aspect of human nature in its fallen state, characterized by a proclivity towards sin and rebellion against divine authority.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible provides numerous insights into the nature of the unrenewed heart. In Jeremiah 17:9, the prophet declares, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" . This verse underscores the inherent deceitfulness and corruption of the human heart, which naturally leads it away from God.

In Romans 8:7, the Apostle Paul elaborates on this condition, stating, "The mind of the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so" . This hostility and inability to submit to God's law highlight the unrenewed heart's inclination to depart from God's righteous path.

Historical Examples

Throughout biblical history, the tendency of the unrenewed heart to depart from God is evident. The Israelites, despite witnessing God's mighty works, repeatedly turned away from Him. In Judges 2:11-12, it is recorded, "And the Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD and served the Baals. They forsook the LORD, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of Egypt" . This cycle of rebellion and repentance illustrates the persistent waywardness of the unrenewed heart.

King Solomon, despite his wisdom, also exemplifies this departure. In 1 Kings 11:4, it is noted, "For when Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the LORD his God, as the heart of his father David had been" . Solomon's heart, swayed by external influences, strayed from complete devotion to God.

Theological Implications

The unrenewed heart's propensity to depart from God has significant theological implications. It underscores the necessity of divine intervention for transformation. In Ezekiel 36:26, God promises, "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" . This promise highlights the need for a spiritual renewal that only God can accomplish.

Furthermore, the New Testament emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in renewing the heart. In Titus 3:5, Paul writes, "He saved us, not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit" . This renewal is essential for overcoming the natural inclination to depart from God.

Practical Considerations

Understanding the character of the unrenewed heart is crucial for believers. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against sin and the need for vigilance in maintaining a close relationship with God. Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life" . This exhortation emphasizes the importance of guarding one's heart against influences that may lead it astray.

Moreover, the recognition of this tendency should foster humility and dependence on God's grace. Believers are encouraged to seek God's strength and guidance continually, as expressed in Psalm 51:10, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me" . This prayer reflects the desire for ongoing renewal and alignment with God's will.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Deuteronomy 29:18
Lest there should be among you man, or woman, or family, or tribe, whose heart turns away this day from the LORD our God, to go and serve the gods of these nations; lest there should be among you a root that bears gall and wormwood;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Jeremiah 17:5
Thus said the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusts in man, and makes flesh his arm, and whose heart departs from the LORD.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

An Address to the Regenerate, Founded on the Preceding Discourses.
... passions, while the soul continues unrenewed and unsanctified ... not he that pondereth
the heart consider it ... societies, in which, under that character, they should ...
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