Topical Encyclopedia The theme of the wicked rejecting the counsels and purposes of God is a recurring motif throughout the Scriptures. This rejection is characterized by a deliberate turning away from divine wisdom and guidance, leading to spiritual and moral decay. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that illustrate the consequences of such rejection.Old Testament Insights In the Old Testament, the rejection of God's counsel is often depicted as a refusal to heed His commandments and a turning away from His statutes. Proverbs 1:24-25 states, "Because you refused my call, and no one took my outstretched hand, because you neglected all my counsel and wanted none of my correction." This passage highlights the willful ignorance and pride of the wicked, who choose to ignore divine instruction. The prophet Isaiah also speaks to this theme, warning of the dire consequences of rejecting God's purposes. Isaiah 30:1 declares, "Woe to the obstinate children, declares the LORD, who carry out plans that are not Mine, forming an alliance, but not by My Spirit, heaping sin upon sin." Here, the rejection of God's counsel is linked to the pursuit of human plans and alliances that are contrary to His will. New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, Jesus Himself addresses the rejection of divine counsel. In Matthew 23:37 , He laments over Jerusalem, saying, "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling!" This poignant expression of sorrow underscores the persistent refusal of the people to accept God's messengers and His redemptive purposes. The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this theme in Romans 1:28 , where he writes, "Furthermore, since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, He gave them up to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done." The rejection of God's counsel leads to a darkened understanding and a life characterized by unrighteousness. Consequences of Rejection The Scriptures are clear about the consequences of rejecting God's counsels and purposes. Proverbs 1:29-31 warns, "For they hated knowledge and chose not to fear the LORD. They accepted none of my counsel; they despised all my reproof. So they will eat the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices." The imagery of reaping what one sows is prevalent, indicating that the wicked will ultimately face the repercussions of their choices. In the New Testament, Jesus speaks of the final judgment for those who reject God's purposes. In Matthew 25:41 , He declares, "Then He will say to those on His left, 'Depart from Me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.'" This passage serves as a sobering reminder of the eternal separation from God that awaits those who persist in their rejection. Call to Repentance Despite the grave consequences, the Bible consistently extends a call to repentance. Ezekiel 18:23 reveals God's heart, "Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? declares the Lord GOD. Wouldn't I prefer that he turn from his ways and live?" This divine invitation to turn from wickedness and embrace God's counsel is a testament to His mercy and desire for all to come to repentance. In the New Testament, the Apostle Peter echoes this call in 2 Peter 3:9 , stating, "The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." The patience and longsuffering of God are evident, offering hope and redemption to those who choose to turn from their rejection and seek His purposes. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 7:30But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Of Predestination The Origin of Evil. The Origin of Evil Election Confirmed by the Calling of God. The Reprobate Bring Upon ... Appendix. Use to be Made of the Doctrine of Providence. Difficulties and Objections Exposition of the Doctrines of Grace The Ideal of To-Day Of the Discipline of the Church, and Its Principal Use in Censures ... Resources What does it mean to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about stress? | GotQuestions.org Should a Christian be a monk? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics The Counsels and Purposes of God are Eternal The Counsels and Purposes of God are Faithfulness and Truth The Counsels and Purposes of God are Great The Counsels and Purposes of God are Immutable The Counsels and Purposes of God are Sovereign The Counsels and Purposes of God are Wonderful The Counsels and Purposes of God: Attend To The Counsels and Purposes of God: None Can Disannul The Counsels and Purposes of God: Saints Called and Save According To The Counsels and Purposes of God: Secret not to be Searched Into The Counsels and Purposes of God: Shall be Performed The Counsels and Purposes of God: should be Declared by Ministers The Counsels and Purposes of God: The Sufferings and Death of Christ Were According To The Counsels and Purposes of God: The Union of all Saints in Christ, is According To The Counsels and Purposes of God: The Wicked: Despise The Counsels and Purposes of God: The Wicked: Reject The Counsels and Purposes of God: The Wicked: Understand Not The Counsels and Purposes of God: The Works of God According To Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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