Self-will and stubbornness are traits often associated with a rebellious spirit, particularly in the context of biblical teachings. These characteristics are frequently condemned in Scripture, as they reflect a heart that resists divine authority and guidance. The Bible provides numerous examples and warnings about the dangers of self-will and stubbornness, especially as they pertain to the wicked.

Biblical Definition and Context

Self-will refers to an obstinate adherence to one's own desires and plans, often in defiance of God's will. Stubbornness is the persistent refusal to change one's attitude or position, even in the face of truth or correction. Together, these traits signify a heart that is hardened against divine instruction and correction.

Scriptural References

1. Proverbs 21:29 · "A wicked man hardens his face, but the upright man makes his way sure." This verse highlights the contrast between the wicked and the righteous. The wicked, in their stubbornness, refuse to change or acknowledge their wrongs, while the righteous seek to align their ways with God's truth.

2. Isaiah 48:4 · "For I knew that you are stubborn; your neck is iron and your forehead is bronze." Here, God addresses the stubbornness of Israel, using vivid imagery to describe their resistance to His commands. This stubbornness is likened to unyielding materials, illustrating the depth of their rebellion.

3. Jeremiah 7:24 · "Yet they did not listen or incline their ear, but walked in the counsels and in the stubbornness of their evil hearts, and went backward and not forward." This passage underscores the consequences of self-will and stubbornness, as the people of Israel chose to follow their own desires rather than heed God's voice, resulting in spiritual regression.

4. Zechariah 7:11-12 · "But they refused to pay attention and turned a stubborn shoulder; they stopped their ears from hearing. They made their hearts like flint and would not listen to the law or to the words that the LORD of Hosts had sent by His Spirit through the earlier prophets." This passage illustrates the deliberate choice of the wicked to reject divine instruction, hardening their hearts against God's message.

Consequences of Self-Will and Stubbornness

The Bible consistently warns that self-will and stubbornness lead to spiritual downfall and separation from God. These traits are often linked with pride and rebellion, which are abhorred by the Lord. Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." The stubborn refusal to submit to God's authority ultimately results in judgment and destruction.

Examples of Self-Will and Stubbornness

1. Pharaoh of Egypt · In the book of Exodus, Pharaoh's stubbornness is evident as he repeatedly hardens his heart against God's command to let the Israelites go (Exodus 7:13-14). His self-will leads to the devastation of Egypt through the ten plagues.

2. King Saul · Saul's self-will is demonstrated when he disobeys God's command by sparing King Agag and the best of the livestock (1 Samuel 15:9). His stubbornness in justifying his actions results in God rejecting him as king.

3. The Israelites in the Wilderness · The Israelites frequently exhibited stubbornness during their journey in the wilderness, grumbling against Moses and God despite witnessing numerous miracles (Numbers 14:22). Their self-will led to a prolonged journey and the death of an entire generation in the desert.

The Call to Repentance

Despite the prevalence of self-will and stubbornness among the wicked, the Bible extends a call to repentance. Ezekiel 18:31-32 urges, "Cast away from yourselves all the offenses you have committed, and fashion for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. Why should you die, O house of Israel? For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Lord GOD. So repent and live!" This call emphasizes God's desire for His people to turn from their stubborn ways and embrace a life of obedience and submission to His will.Judges 2:19
And it came to pass, when the judge was dead, that they returned, and corrupted themselves more than their fathers, in following other gods to serve them, and to bow down to them; they ceased not from their own doings, nor from their stubborn way.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

part i
... 'God is not a man ... He were visible, as if He were present here before me, knowing
all my thoughts and feelings; every inward slothfulness, stubbornness, or other ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm

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