Definition and Nature:

Self-will and stubbornness are often characterized by an obstinate adherence to one's own desires and opinions, frequently in defiance of divine guidance or communal wisdom. These traits are deeply rooted in pride, which is considered a fundamental sin that leads individuals away from humility and submission to God's will.

Biblical Context:

The Bible frequently addresses the dangers of pride and its offspring, self-will and stubbornness. Pride is seen as the original sin that led to the fall of Lucifer (Isaiah 14:12-15) and is often depicted as the root cause of human rebellion against God.

Scriptural References:

1. Proverbs 16:18 : "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse highlights the inevitable downfall that follows pride, suggesting that self-will and stubbornness, as manifestations of pride, lead to one's ruin.

2. 1 Samuel 15:23 : "For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and arrogance is as wickedness and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king." Here, the prophet Samuel rebukes King Saul for his disobedience, equating his stubbornness and self-will with idolatry and witchcraft, thus underscoring the severity of these traits.

3. Proverbs 29:1 : "A man who remains stiff-necked after much reproof will suddenly be shattered beyond recovery." This proverb warns of the consequences of stubbornness, emphasizing that persistent self-will leads to irreversible damage.

4. James 4:6 : "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" This passage contrasts pride with humility, indicating that self-will and stubbornness place one in opposition to God, while humility aligns one with His grace.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, self-will and stubbornness are seen as barriers to spiritual growth and communion with God. They reflect a heart that prioritizes personal desires over divine will, leading to spiritual stagnation and separation from God's blessings.

Moral and Ethical Considerations:

In the moral and ethical realm, self-will and stubbornness can lead to conflict within communities and families. They hinder reconciliation and foster division, as individuals prioritize their own perspectives over collective harmony and understanding.

Practical Applications:

Believers are encouraged to cultivate humility and submission to God's will as antidotes to self-will and stubbornness. This involves regular self-examination, prayer, and a willingness to be corrected by Scripture and fellow believers. By doing so, individuals can align themselves more closely with God's purposes and experience the fullness of His grace.Nehemiah 9:16,29
But they and our fathers dealt proudly, and hardened their necks, and listened not to your commandments,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Funeral Oration on the Great S. Basil, Bishop of C??sarea in ...
... of my praises upon those whom I have commemorated, and proceed to treat ... to laxity
and slackness, severity gives rise to stubbornness and self-will, he was ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/oration xliii funeral oration on.htm

part i
... Fear and uneasiness proceed from unbelief. ... desires of the eyes and worldly pride;
it cannot see ... and feelings; every inward slothfulness, stubbornness, or other ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm

What is the god of self? | GotQuestions.org

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What does the Bible say that would apply to selfie culture? | GotQuestions.org

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