In Proverbs 22:15, it says that: “foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of correction would drive it far from him”. This verse is not easily accepted in today’s non-confrontational, permissive culture. Correction is seen as abuse, especially when a rod is used. In some countries, even the simple use of “no” is considered a violation of a person’s rights. The hypocrisy of it all is that those who are “rights warriors” and fight against being judged are the first to “cancel” others who have differing views than themselves. This rejection of moral standards, legitimate authority and absolute truth is labelled, in the Bible, as rebellion.
Every human being has the seed of rebellion within him. Rebellion is the opposition to, and rejection of God ordained authority. Rebellion against God was man’s first sin, resulting in a sin nature that has been passed down from generation to generation. Rebellion is the going one’s own way; the doing what is right in one’s own mind. It is the root of all sin. Rebellion describes the very nature of Satan’s domain, which is composed of rebellious angels and rebellious mankind. The prophet Samuel told King Saul that rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft. (I Samuel 15:23) It is manipulative and obstinate in getting its own way.
To be free of rebellion, one must first see rebellion in one’s own heart. Here are some of the symptoms: 1) Unwillingness to be corrected. 2) Isolating oneself. 3) Opinionated and argumentative. 4) Criticizing others, especially those in authority. 5) Having to have the last word. 6) Avoidance of being under authority. 7) Not obeying the Word of God. There are many other signs of rebellion, that can be mentioned, but these are sufficient in showing that really all of us have a rebellious streak. Jesus said of His generation: “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord’, and not do what I say?” (Luke 6:46) We may live in denial and excuse our attitudes and actions, but to be free, we must all agree with the Bible in that we all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.
Since rebellion is the rejection of authority, freedom comes through submission to authority. Francis Schaeffer said: “The beginning of men’s rebellion against God was, and is, the lack of a thankful heart.” Submission is, first and foremost, an attitude of the heart. It is being grateful for being forgiven and restored into a right relationship with God. It is the returning, (repenting), we see when the prodigal son returns to the loving authority of his father. Submission is an act of love and trust and is an acknowledgement of having received salvation by grace. Rebellion hardens the heart to grace, glories only in man’s own works. Hebrews 3:15 says: “Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled.”
The Holy Spirit is wooing people back to God. He is opening the eyes of the rebellious to their sinful ways and giving them an opportunity to repent. The Scriptures warn that there is coming a day when lawlessness will increase, and a great rebellion will occur against God. Because of God’s great love and patience, the Spirit is holding that day back. (2 Thessalonians 2:3) It is because God is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9) But that terrible day will come, so the call is out: Do not harden your hearts; today is the day of salvation. Freedom from a rebellious heart requires you to take the first step. Humble yourself and return to God. His arms are wide open to receive you back to Himself.
Scriptures to meditate on:
Deuteronomy 31:27; 1 Samuel 15:23; Romans 3:23; 13:1-7; Luke 6:46; Ezra 4:19