Topical Bible: Self-Will and Stubbornness: Ministers should Warn Their People Against

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Topical Encyclopedia

Self-will and stubbornness are traits that Scripture consistently warns against, as they often lead individuals away from God's will and into paths of disobedience and rebellion. These characteristics are seen as contrary to the humility and submission that God desires from His people.

Biblical Definitions and Examples

Self-will is the determination to follow one's own desires and inclinations, often in defiance of divine guidance or authority. Stubbornness, closely related, is the obstinate refusal to change one's attitude or position, even when confronted with truth or correction.

The Bible provides numerous examples of self-will and stubbornness leading to negative consequences. In the Old Testament, King Saul's self-will led to his downfall. Despite God's clear instructions, Saul acted according to his own judgment, resulting in God's rejection of his kingship (1 Samuel 15:23: "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.").

The Israelites frequently exhibited stubbornness, resisting God's commands and suffering the consequences. In Deuteronomy 9:6 , Moses reminds them, "Understand, then, that it is not because of your righteousness that the LORD your God is giving you this good land to possess, for you are a stiff-necked people."

Warnings and Admonitions

Ministers are called to warn their congregations against the dangers of self-will and stubbornness. Proverbs 29:1 states, "A man who remains stiff-necked after much reproof will suddenly be shattered beyond recovery." This verse highlights the peril of ignoring correction and persisting in one's own way.

The New Testament also addresses these traits. In Romans 2:5 , Paul warns, "But because of your hard and unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of wrath, when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed." Here, stubbornness is linked to a refusal to repent, which ultimately leads to divine judgment.

The Role of Ministers

Ministers have a responsibility to guide their congregations toward humility and submission to God's will. They are to teach the importance of yielding to the Holy Spirit and embracing a heart of obedience. Hebrews 13:17 instructs believers, "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who must give an account. To this end, allow them to lead with joy and not with grief, for that would be of no advantage to you."

By addressing self-will and stubbornness, ministers help their people cultivate a spirit of humility and openness to God's direction. This involves encouraging believers to seek God's wisdom and to be receptive to correction and guidance from spiritual leaders.

Encouragement to Embrace Humility

Scripture consistently contrasts self-will and stubbornness with the virtues of humility and submission. James 4:6 reminds us, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" Ministers should emphasize the blessings that come from a humble heart, which is open to God's leading and receptive to His grace.

In summary, self-will and stubbornness are significant spiritual dangers that ministers must address within their congregations. By teaching the value of humility and submission, they guide their people toward a deeper relationship with God and a life aligned with His purposes.