The term "rebelleth" is an archaic form of the word "rebels," often found in older translations of the Bible. It denotes the act of resisting or defying authority, particularly the authority of God. In the context of Scripture, rebellion is seen as a grave sin, reflecting a heart that is hardened against divine commandments and guidance.

Biblical Context and Usage:

1. Old Testament Instances:
· Rebellion is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, where the Israelites frequently turned away from God's commandments. In 1 Samuel 15:23, the prophet Samuel rebukes King Saul, saying, "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." This passage highlights the severity of rebellion, equating it with witchcraft and idolatry.
· In Isaiah 1:2, the prophet Isaiah conveys God's lament over Israel's rebellion: "Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth; for the LORD has spoken: 'I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against Me.'" Here, rebellion is portrayed as a betrayal of the nurturing relationship God has with His people.

2. New Testament Insights:
· While the New Testament does not frequently use the term "rebelleth," the concept is present. In Romans 13:2, Paul writes, "Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." This passage underscores the idea that rebellion against earthly authorities, when they are in alignment with God's will, is tantamount to rebelling against God Himself.
· The parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32 illustrates personal rebellion and its consequences. The younger son's departure from his father's house symbolizes a rebellion against familial and divine authority, leading to personal ruin until repentance and reconciliation are sought.

Theological Implications:

Rebellion in the biblical sense is not merely a social or political act but a spiritual defiance against God's sovereign rule. It is often associated with pride, self-will, and a refusal to submit to God's law. The Bible consistently warns against rebellion, emphasizing the need for humility, obedience, and repentance.

Consequences of Rebellion:

Scripture outlines the dire consequences of rebellion. In Numbers 14:9, Joshua and Caleb warn the Israelites, "Only do not rebel against the LORD, and do not be afraid of the people of the land, for they will be our bread. Their protection has been removed, and the LORD is with us. Do not be afraid of them!" This warning comes in the context of the Israelites' fear and refusal to enter the Promised Land, which ultimately leads to their wandering in the wilderness for forty years.

Call to Repentance:

Despite the severity of rebellion, the Bible also offers hope for redemption. In Ezekiel 18:30-32, God calls His people to repentance: "Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, each according to his ways, declares the Lord GOD. Repent and turn from all your transgressions, so that iniquity will not be your downfall. Cast away from yourselves all the offenses you have committed, and fashion 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!"

In summary, "rebelleth" in the biblical context is a serious offense against God, characterized by a refusal to submit to His authority. The Bible calls for repentance and submission to God's will as the path to restoration and life.

The Spirit of Bondage and of Adoption.
... He now clearly perceives, that the great and holy God is "of purer eyes than to
behold iniquity;" that he is an avenger of every one who rebelleth against him ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 9 the spirit of.htm

The Sermon of the Seasons
... affairs. God compelleth winds and storms, and sun and sea, to keep the order
of his house, and none rebelleth against his commandment. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 32 1886/the sermon of the seasons.htm

Rebelleth (5 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Rebelleth (5 Occurrences). 2 Kings 18:7 And Jehovah
hath been with him, in every place where he goeth out ...
/r/rebelleth.htm - 7k

Rebelling (4 Occurrences)

/r/rebelling.htm - 7k

Rebellest (2 Occurrences)

/r/rebellest.htm - 7k

Acteth (8 Occurrences)
... 2 Kings 18:7 And Jehovah hath been with him, in every place where he goeth out he
acteth wisely, and he rebelleth against the king of Asshur, and hath not ...
/a/acteth.htm - 8k

Wisely (60 Occurrences)
... 2 Kings 18:7 And Jehovah hath been with him, in every place where he goeth out he
acteth wisely, and he rebelleth against the king of Asshur, and hath not ...
/w/wisely.htm - 24k

Asshur (133 Occurrences)
... 2 Kings 18:7 And Jehovah hath been with him, in every place where he goeth out he
acteth wisely, and he rebelleth against the king of Asshur, and hath not ...
/a/asshur.htm - 46k

Escaped (94 Occurrences)
... (YLT). Ezekiel 17:15 And he rebelleth against him, To send his messengers to
Egypt, To give to him horses, and much people, Doth he prosper? ...
/e/escaped.htm - 37k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus