Topical Encyclopedia Stubbornness, as depicted in the Bible, is often associated with a refusal to listen, change, or obey, particularly in relation to God's commands and guidance. It is frequently portrayed as a negative trait that leads to spiritual and moral downfall.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, stubbornness is frequently linked with the Israelites' repeated disobedience to God. One of the most notable examples is found in the narrative of the Exodus. Despite witnessing numerous miracles, the Israelites often displayed a stubborn heart. In Exodus 32:9, God says to Moses, "I have seen this people, and they are indeed a stiff-necked people." This term "stiff-necked" is synonymous with stubbornness, indicating a refusal to submit to God's authority. The book of Proverbs also addresses stubbornness, warning against the dangers of a hardened heart. 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 persistent stubbornness, suggesting that it can lead to irreversible consequences. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, stubbornness is often seen in the context of resisting the message of the Gospel. Jesus encountered stubbornness in the religious leaders of His time, who refused to accept His teachings and authority. In Mark 3:5, Jesus is described as being grieved by the hardness of their hearts, a phrase that conveys the stubbornness of those who opposed Him. The Apostle Paul also addresses stubbornness in his epistles. In Romans 2:5, he 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 equated with an unrepentant heart, emphasizing the spiritual danger it poses. Spiritual Implications Stubbornness is often seen as a barrier to spiritual growth and a relationship with God. It is associated with pride and self-reliance, which can prevent individuals from acknowledging their need for God's guidance and grace. The Bible encourages believers to cultivate a humble and teachable spirit, as seen in James 4:6, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" Examples of Stubbornness Several biblical figures exemplify stubbornness, both in their resistance to God and in their eventual repentance. Pharaoh, during the time of Moses, is a prime example. Despite numerous plagues and warnings, Pharaoh's heart remained hardened, leading to the eventual downfall of Egypt (Exodus 7-11). Conversely, the account of Jonah illustrates a different aspect of stubbornness. Initially, Jonah's refusal to obey God's command to go to Nineveh demonstrates his stubbornness. However, after experiencing God's discipline, Jonah repents and fulfills his mission, showing that stubbornness can be overcome through humility and obedience. Conclusion Stubbornness, as depicted in the Bible, serves as a cautionary trait that can hinder one's relationship with God. It is often associated with pride and a refusal to submit to divine authority. The Scriptures encourage believers to cultivate humility and a willingness to listen and obey, recognizing that stubbornness can lead to spiritual peril. Greek 4643. sklerotes -- hardness ... Word Origin from skleros Definition hardness NASB Word Usage stubbornness (1). hardness. From skleros; callousness, ie (figuratively) stubbornness -- hardness. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4643.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 7190. qeshi -- stubbornness... 7189b, 7190. qeshi. 7191 . stubbornness. Transliteration: qeshi Phonetic Spelling: (kesh-ee') Short Definition: stubbornness. Word ... /hebrew/7190.htm - 6k 8307. sheriruth -- firmness, stubbornness 6484. patsar -- to push, press 7186. qasheh -- hard, severe 6203. oreph -- back of the neck, neck Library The Knowledge of God Stifled or Corrupted, Ignorantly or ... From the Fourth to the Seventh Commandment God Wants the Best. The Transplanting of Congregationalism Saul Rejected Explaining the Divine Life. The Word On Obedience to Parents The Two Masters, Self and Truth The Spiritual Meaning of Circumcision. Thesaurus Stubbornness (14 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Stubbornness (14 Occurrences). Romans 2:5 The fact is that in the stubbornness of your impenitent heart ... /s/stubbornness.htm - 11k Stubbornly (10 Occurrences) Stubborn (40 Occurrences) Imagination (20 Occurrences) Counsels (22 Occurrences) Devices (43 Occurrences) Follows (65 Occurrences) Overlook (7 Occurrences) Obstinacy (1 Occurrence) Judgements (3 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about being stubborn / stubbornness? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Pliny the Younger? | GotQuestions.org What is a biblical theology of worship? | GotQuestions.org Stubbornness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Stubbornness (14 Occurrences)Romans 2:5 Deuteronomy 9:27 Deuteronomy 29:19 Deuteronomy 31:27 1 Samuel 15:23 Psalms 81:12 Jeremiah 3:17 Jeremiah 7:24 Jeremiah 9:14 Jeremiah 11:8 Jeremiah 13:10 Jeremiah 16:12 Jeremiah 18:12 Jeremiah 23:17 Subtopics Related Terms |
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