Topical Bible: Character of the Unrenewed Heart: Stiff

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◄ Character of the Unrenewed Heart: Stiff ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The term "stiff" in the context of the unrenewed heart refers to a spiritual condition marked by obstinacy, resistance to divine influence, and an unwillingness to submit to God's will. This characteristic is often associated with a hardened heart, which is frequently mentioned in Scripture as a barrier to spiritual growth and receptivity to God's truth.

Biblical References:

1. Stiff-necked People: The Bible often uses the metaphor of a "stiff-necked" people to describe those who are stubborn and rebellious against God. In Exodus 32:9 , the Lord says to Moses, "I have seen this people, and they are indeed a stiff-necked people." This description highlights the Israelites' resistance to God's commands and their tendency to turn away from Him despite witnessing His mighty works.

2. Resistance to the Holy Spirit: In Acts 7:51 , Stephen addresses the Sanhedrin, saying, "You stiff-necked people with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit, just as your fathers did." Here, the unrenewed heart is characterized by a persistent refusal to heed the guidance and conviction of the Holy Spirit, mirroring the rebellious nature of their ancestors.

3. Hardened Hearts: The concept of a hardened heart is closely related to being stiff. In Hebrews 3:13 , believers are warned, "But exhort one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness." A stiff heart is one that has become callous due to sin, making it resistant to repentance and transformation.

4. Pride and Self-reliance: The unrenewed heart's stiffness is often rooted in pride and self-reliance. Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse underscores the danger of a proud heart that refuses to acknowledge its need for God, leading to spiritual downfall.

5. Lack of Submission: A stiff heart is unwilling to submit to God's authority. In Jeremiah 7:24 , it is written, "Yet they did not listen or incline their ear, but walked in the counsels and the stubbornness of their evil hearts, and went backward and not forward." This passage illustrates the backward trajectory of those who resist God's guidance, choosing their own path over His.

Theological Implications:

The character of the unrenewed heart as stiff is a significant theme in Scripture, reflecting humanity's natural inclination towards sin and rebellion. This condition is a barrier to experiencing the fullness of God's grace and truth. The Bible consistently calls for a transformation of the heart, urging individuals to turn away from their stubborn ways and embrace a life of obedience and submission to God.

The stiff heart is contrasted with the renewed heart, which is open, receptive, and responsive to God's leading. Ezekiel 36:26 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 transformation is made possible through the work of the Holy Spirit, who softens the heart and enables believers to live in accordance with God's will.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ezekiel 2:4
For they are impudent children and stiff hearted. I do send you to them; and you shall say to them, Thus said the Lord GOD.
Torrey's Topical Textbook