Topical Bible: Self-Will and Stubbornness: Exhibited in Hardening the Heart

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Introduction

Self-will and stubbornness are traits that manifest in the deliberate resistance to divine guidance and authority. In the biblical context, these traits are often illustrated through the concept of "hardening the heart," a condition where individuals or groups persist in their own ways despite clear evidence of God's will. This entry explores the biblical instances and implications of self-will and stubbornness as they relate to the hardening of the heart.

Biblical Instances

1. Pharaoh of Egypt: One of the most prominent examples of a hardened heart is Pharaoh during the Exodus narrative. Despite witnessing numerous signs and wonders performed by God through Moses, Pharaoh repeatedly hardened his heart, refusing to let the Israelites go. The Berean Standard Bible records, "But Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had said" (Exodus 7:13). This obstinacy led to severe consequences for Egypt, illustrating the destructive nature of self-will against divine command.

2. The Israelites in the Wilderness: The Israelites frequently exhibited stubbornness during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. Despite God's continuous provision and guidance, they often rebelled and longed to return to Egypt. In Psalm 95:8, the BSB warns, "Do not harden your hearts as you did at Meribah, as you did that day at Massah in the wilderness." This reference highlights the Israelites' persistent self-will and the resulting divine displeasure.

3. King Saul: Saul, the first king of Israel, is another example of self-will leading to a hardened heart. His repeated disobedience to God's commands, such as sparing King Agag and the best of the Amalekite livestock, demonstrated a stubbornness that ultimately cost him the kingdom. 1 Samuel 15:23 states, "For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance is like the wickedness of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king."

4. The Jewish Leaders in the Time of Jesus: The religious leaders of Jesus' day often displayed hardened hearts, refusing to accept Him as the Messiah despite His teachings and miracles. In Mark 3:5 , Jesus, "deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts," healed a man on the Sabbath, highlighting their resistance to the truth and compassion of God.

Theological Implications

The hardening of the heart is a profound spiritual condition that reflects a deep-seated resistance to God's authority and truth. It is often a result of persistent self-will and pride, leading individuals to prioritize their desires over divine instruction. This condition is not only a personal spiritual issue but also has communal and generational consequences, as seen in the narratives of Pharaoh and the Israelites.

Moral and Spiritual Lessons

1. The Danger of Pride: Self-will and stubbornness are often rooted in pride, which blinds individuals to the truth and leads to spiritual downfall. Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall."

2. The Call to Humility and Obedience: Scripture consistently calls believers to humility and obedience as antidotes to a hardened heart. James 4:7 exhorts, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."

3. The Role of Divine Sovereignty: While human responsibility is emphasized, the Bible also acknowledges God's sovereignty in the hardening of hearts. Romans 9:18 states, "Therefore God has mercy on whom He wants to have mercy, and He hardens whom He wants to harden." This underscores the mystery of divine justice and mercy.

Conclusion

The biblical portrayal of self-will and stubbornness through the hardening of the heart serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of aligning one's will with God's. It calls believers to examine their hearts, seek humility, and remain open to divine guidance, lest they fall into the perilous state of spiritual obstinacy.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 36:13
And he also rebelled against king Nebuchadnezzar, who had made him swear by God: but he stiffened his neck, and hardened his heart from turning to the LORD God of Israel.
Torrey's Topical Textbook