Topical Bible: Afflictions and Adversities of the Wicked: Often Sudden

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The Bible frequently addresses the theme of afflictions and adversities that befall the wicked, often highlighting their sudden and unexpected nature. This concept underscores the justice and sovereignty of God, who, in His divine wisdom, allows or brings about such events as a consequence of wickedness.

Suddenness of Calamity

Scripture often emphasizes the abruptness with which calamity can strike the wicked. Proverbs 6:15 states, "Therefore calamity will come upon him suddenly; in an instant he will be shattered beyond recovery." This verse illustrates the swift and irreversible nature of the downfall that can befall those who engage in evil deeds. The suddenness serves as a warning to those who live in defiance of God's commandments, reminding them that their perceived security is fragile.

Divine Retribution

The sudden adversities faced by the wicked are often portrayed as acts of divine retribution. In Psalm 73:18-19 , the psalmist reflects on the fate of the wicked: "Surely You set them on slick ground; You cast them down into ruin. How suddenly they are laid waste, completely swept away by terrors!" Here, the imagery of slippery ground conveys the precarious position of the wicked, who may appear stable but are actually on the brink of disaster.

Warnings and Consequences

The Bible also uses the sudden afflictions of the wicked as a didactic tool, warning others of the consequences of sin. In Proverbs 29:1 , it is written, "A man who remains stiff-necked after much reproof will suddenly be shattered beyond recovery." This proverb highlights the danger of ignoring divine warnings and persisting in sin, as the resulting destruction can be both swift and irreparable.

Historical Examples

Throughout biblical history, there are numerous examples of sudden afflictions befalling the wicked. The account of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19 serves as a poignant illustration. The cities, known for their wickedness, were suddenly destroyed by fire and brimstone from heaven, demonstrating God's judgment. Similarly, in the New Testament, the sudden death of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11 serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of deceit and hypocrisy before God.

Moral and Spiritual Implications

The sudden adversities of the wicked carry significant moral and spiritual implications. They serve as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly power and wealth, which can be stripped away in an instant. This theme encourages believers to place their trust in God rather than in worldly security, as seen in Proverbs 11:28 : "He who trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf."

Conclusion

The Bible's portrayal of the sudden afflictions and adversities of the wicked serves as a powerful reminder of God's justice and the inherent instability of a life lived in opposition to His will. Through these narratives and teachings, Scripture calls individuals to repentance and righteousness, urging them to seek refuge in the steadfast love and protection of the Lord.

Nave's Topical Index

Psalm 73:19
How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors.
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Proverbs 6:15
Therefore shall his calamity come suddenly; suddenly shall he be broken without remedy.
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Isaiah 30:13
Therefore this iniquity shall be to you as a breach ready to fall, swelling out in a high wall, whose breaking comes suddenly at an instant.
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Revelation 18:10
Standing afar off for the fear of her torment, saying, Alas, alas that great city Babylon, that mighty city! for in one hour is your judgment come.
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Library

Christian Graces.
... be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked:" to quench ... by prevailing with
the soul to suffer all troubles, afflictions, and adversities that it ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bunyan/the riches of bunyan/xviii christian graces.htm

Whither Goest Thou?
... The wicked may well be ill at ease; for God ... God appoints the weight and number of
all our adversities. ... Since every trial comes from God, afflictions are no ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 35 1889/whither goest thou.htm

part ii
... much was he deprived by his wicked and intentional ... yet you remain in them, are often
bound by ... is connected with great privations and afflictions; and, therefore ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm