Self-will and stubbornness are traits that Scripture frequently warns against, particularly in the context of familial relationships. The Bible emphasizes the importance of honoring and obeying one's parents, and the refusal to do so is often portrayed as a manifestation of self-will and stubbornness.

Biblical Foundation

The command to honor one's parents is rooted in the Ten Commandments, where it is stated: "Honor your father and mother, so that your days may be long in the land the LORD your God is giving you" (Exodus 20:12). This command is reiterated in the New Testament: "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right" (Ephesians 6:1). The biblical mandate to respect parental authority is clear, and the refusal to hearken to parents is seen as a deviation from God's ordained order.

Examples of Self-Will and Stubbornness

1. The Rebellious Son: Deuteronomy 21:18-21 provides a stark example of the consequences of stubbornness and self-will in children. The passage describes a "stubborn and rebellious son" who "will not obey the voice of his father or the voice of his mother." The prescribed punishment for such behavior under the Mosaic Law was severe, underscoring the gravity of this sin in the eyes of God.

2. Absalom's Rebellion: The account of Absalom, the son of King David, illustrates the destructive nature of self-will and stubbornness. Absalom's rebellion against his father (2 Samuel 15) was rooted in pride and a refusal to submit to David's authority. His actions led to civil war and ultimately his own demise, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of rejecting parental guidance.

3. Eli's Sons: In 1 Samuel 2:12-25, the sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, are described as "worthless men" who "did not know the LORD." Their refusal to heed their father's rebuke and their continued sinful behavior resulted in divine judgment. This account highlights the spiritual peril of ignoring parental correction.

Spiritual Implications

The refusal to listen to parents is not merely a social or familial issue but a spiritual one. Proverbs 15:5 states, "A fool rejects his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction is prudent." The Bible associates stubbornness with folly and wisdom with the acceptance of correction. This principle is further emphasized in Proverbs 13:1 : "A wise son heeds his father’s discipline, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke."

Consequences of Stubbornness

The consequences of self-will and stubbornness are both temporal and eternal. Proverbs 30:17 warns, "As for the eye that mocks a father and scorns obedience to a mother, may the ravens of the valley pluck it out and young vultures eat it." This vivid imagery underscores the severe repercussions of such behavior. In a broader sense, stubbornness against parental authority is indicative of a heart that may also resist divine authority, leading to spiritual ruin.

Encouragement to Obedience

The Bible encourages children to embrace obedience and humility. Colossians 3:20 exhorts, "Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord." This obedience is not only a duty but a path to blessing, as it aligns with God's design for family and society. The call to heed parental guidance is ultimately a call to submit to God's wisdom and authority.Deuteronomy 21:18,19
If a man have a stubborn and rebellious son, which will not obey the voice of his father, or the voice of his mother, and that, when they have chastened him, will not listen to them:
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