Each time, either the word “Rebel” or “Rebellion” comes to mind, we so quickly exonerate ourselves from any form of witchcraft because we consider our disobedience to God’s authority, a child’s play, thus we explain away our actions from the defensive outlook targeted at the easy way out.
This month’s article however, focuses on biblical perception of rebellion against God.
Let us begin with the definition of the word ”Rebel” according to Merriam-Webster dictionary:
1a. opposing or taking arms against a government or ruler.
b. Of or relating to rebels.
2. Disobedient, rebellious
As a verb
1a. to oppose or disobey one in authority or control.
b. to renounce and resist by force the authority of one’s government.
2a. to act in or show opposition or disobedience.
b. to feel or exhibit anger or revulsion.
First of all, we must understand that there is nothing like little or huge rebellion. Just like other sins, rebellion has same penalty.
The biblical definition of rebellion is using our God-given Will against The Government, Authority, Kingdom and Control of The Giver, GOD.
It is also when you become God to yourself, no longer needing any input from Him. (Being totally self opinionated, self dependent, self made and every negative thing that only draws attention to SELF)
Secondly, there is no doubt, that everyone might have been guilty of this sin, at one point or the other in their Christian walk with God. Therefore, God is not judging us now but is calling our attention to a very dangerous, yet subtle sin that we must all repent from.
Why does the Bible liken rebellion to witchcraft?
The answer is simply because satan was the first creature to use his willpower against His Creator’s (GOD’s) Authority, thus setting precedent for his co-horts; the demonic and human agents. (Isaiah 14:12-17)
The next question that is often asked is, “Why did God not super impose His Own Will on him and on humans also?”
The answer is, “The gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable”. The Creator freely gives all His creation the right to choose to do His Will out of genuine love for Him and not because we are coerced to do so.
He also passionately wooed us with His unconditional love, His great and precious promises and ultimately with the sacrifice of The blood of Jesus for all our sins on the cross of Calvary. (Romans 11:29-36)
A one-sided or an unrequited love and loveless relationship best describe the rebellious relationship of the self absorbed Mankind with Their Maker. While Humanity continues to enjoy the best of His works, they are very much unwilling to surrender their will to Him.
Another example of rebellion in the Bible is in the book of I Samuel 8 when the people of Israel used their will against God by demanding for a king, against His Government and in I Samuel 15, that same king, King Saul also used his will against God by rebelling against the instruction given to him by Prophet Samuel, thus provoking his removal from the throne and also dying shamefully.
The children of Israel all provoked God to anger after He delivered them from bondage in Egypt and safely led them through the wilderness, when they complained bitterly and murmured in rebellion against Him and His servant, Moses.
Child of God, it is not only the children of Israel who rebelled against God. In fact, they are our example and also a warning to us!
In the world today, this great sin is committed daily among Mankind, even believers are not left out.
Read Jeremiah Chapters 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11; Ezekiel 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11
God is therefore calling everyone to repentance before executing judgment.
We all know where we need His Grace, Mercy and Help and we should also intercede for others.
May His Grace and Mercy be multiplied upon us in Jesus’ Name!
Shalom!
