Explore the consequences of rejecting God’s Word
Understanding the outcome of rejecting God’s Word
In our journey of faith, it is crucial to recognize the importance of the Bible and the consequences that come with rejecting it. Throughout history, we find examples of individuals and societies who rejected God’s Word, leading to disastrous outcomes. This article will explore the consequences of rejecting God’s Word and the lessons we can learn from these accounts.
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Rejecting God’s Word Results to Disorder in Society
Zedekiah was one and twenty years old when he began to reign, and reigned eleven years in Jerusalem. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD his God, and humbled not himself before Jeremiah the prophet speaking from the mouth of the LORD. And he also rebelled against king Nebuchadnezzar, who had made him swear by God: but he stiffened his neck, and hardened his heart from turning unto the LORD God of Israel.
2 Chronicles 36:11-13
In the book of 2 Chronicles, we encounter a vivid portrayal of a nation in disarray. The ruler, King Zedekiah, displayed a disregard for God’s commandments and failed to humble himself before the prophet Jeremiah, who spoke on behalf of the Lord. The king’s rebellion against the authority of God and his refusal to turn back to Him resulted in the deterioration of their society.
The consequences of rejecting God’s Word become evident when we examine the characteristics of this wicked government:
- A King who did evil in the sight of God: Zedekiah’s actions were displeasing to the Lord, as he strayed from the path of righteousness.
- A King who lacked respect for the prophet of God: Zedekiah arrogantly ignored the words of Jeremiah, dismissing the divine message.
- A King who hardened his heart: Despite being warned by God and even making an oath to the king of Babylon, Zedekiah remained stubborn and unyielding.
Wicked Preachers and Polluted Worship
Moreover all the chief of the priests, and the people, transgressed very much after all the abominations of the heathen; and polluted the house of the LORD which he had hallowed in Jerusalem.
2 Chronicles 36:14
The consequences of rejecting God’s Word did not stop with the ruler. The chief priests and the people themselves transgressed greatly, following the abominations of the heathen nations. Instead of leading the people towards holiness, these wicked preachers guided them into further transgressions. They polluted the house of the Lord, desecrating the sacred place that had been set apart for worship.
In the Old Testament history, the duties of priests were paramount in maintaining a pure relationship between God and His people. However, these spiritual leaders tragically desecrated their worship. The priests, entrusted with upholding divine commandments.
- They disobeyed God’s instructions: Setting a destructive example for the nation.
- They neglected their sacred responsibilities: Treating their holy calling with indifference.
- They allowed the desecration of the Temple: God’s dwelling place among His people. Instead of safeguarding its sanctity, they permitted, and even participated in its defilement.
- They promoted idol worship: As these supposed guardians of faith turned to false gods, leading the people astray.
This spiritual decay, vividly depicted in 2 Chronicles 36, serves as a poignant reminder of the serious consequences when those entrusted with spiritual leadership abandon and reject God’s Word.
This serves as a reminder of the importance of spiritual leaders who faithfully teach and uphold the Word of God. When leaders deviate from the truth and lead others astray, the consequences can be severe, tarnishing the purity of worship and causing the people to stray from the path of righteousness.
The Desire of the Lord
And the LORD God of their fathers sent to them by his messengers, rising up betimes, and sending; because he had compassion on his people, and on his dwelling place:
2 Chronicles 36:15
Amidst the disorder and disobedience, the Lord’s desire remained steadfast. Despite the wickedness of the people, God had compassion on them. He sent messengers to call the people to repentance and obedience. God’s desire for his people was to see them turn back to Him, to obey His Word, and to find restoration and reconciliation with Him.
This compassion is vividly portrayed in the life of Jesus Christ. In Matthew 9:36, we read that Jesus was moved with compassion when He saw the multitudes. He recognized their spiritual emptiness and their need for a shepherd. This compassion is a reflection of God’s desire for us to come into a right relationship with Him and experience His love and grace.
The People Rejecting God’s Word
But they mocked the messengers of God, and despised his words, and misused his prophets, until the wrath of the LORD arose against his people, till there was no remedy.
2 Chronicles 36:16
Unfortunately, the response to God’s messengers was not one of repentance and humility. Instead, the people mocked them, despised their words, and even abused the prophets. This contemptuous attitude towards God’s Word is a grave mistake that has severe consequences.
To reject God’s Word is to have the lowest opinion of it, to scorn and disdain its authority and relevance. This attitude is not limited to the people of ancient times but can still be found among believers today. Some Christians resist the Word of God, continually refusing to submit to its teachings. This resistance incurs the wrath of God in their lives, leading to spiritual destruction.
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The Consequences of Rejecting God’s Word
The consequences of rejecting God’s Word are profound and far-reaching. Those who refuse to heed His Word are easily defeated by the enemy. As believers, we are engaged in spiritual warfare, and our strength lies in our spirituality. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual powers and principalities. Therefore, it is crucial for us to arm ourselves with the Word of God, which is the sword of the Spirit.
Therefore he brought upon them the king of the Chaldees, who slew their young men with the sword in the house of their sanctuary, and had no compassion upon young man or maiden, old man, or him that stooped for age: he gave them all into his hand.
2 Chronicles 36:17
When we reject God’s Word, we open ourselves up to defeat and destruction. Just as the king of the Chaldeans slew the young men in the sanctuary, the enemy seeks to destroy those who reject God’s Word. It is through our obedience and adherence to God’s Word that we find victory over the enemy.
Destruction and Desolation
The consequences of rejecting God’s Word extend beyond personal defeat. The destruction of Jerusalem serves as a stark reminder that the repercussions of disobedience can impact not only the individual but also the community. In 2 Chronicles 36:18-19, we read that the Babylonians burned the house of God, broke down the walls of Jerusalem, and destroyed the palaces and vessels.
And all the vessels of the house of God, great and small, and the treasures of the house of the LORD, and the treasures of the king, and of his princes; all these he brought to Babylon. And they burnt the house of God, and brake down the wall of Jerusalem, and burnt all the palaces thereof with fire, and destroyed all the goodly vessels thereof.
2 Chronicles 36:18-19
The destruction of Jerusalem and the desecration of the temple were direct results of the people’s rebellion against God. Even those who were faithful, such as Daniel and the three Hebrew youths, experienced the consequences of the nation’s disobedience. This serves as a sobering reminder that our actions can have far-reaching effects on those around us.
Displacement and Servitude
Another consequence of rejecting God’s Word is displacement and servitude. The people of Jerusalem were carried away to Babylon as slaves to Nebuchadnezzar. They went from being servants of God to becoming servants of the world. Their rebellion against God resulted in a miserable existence, far worse than their previous state of unbelief.
And them that had escaped from the sword carried he away to Babylon; where they were servants to him and his sons until the reign of the kingdom of Persia:
2 Chronicles 36:20
This displacement not only affected the individuals but also hindered their access to God’s Word. For seventy years, they were unable to freely enjoy the teachings and guidance of God’s Word. This deprivation serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing and obeying God’s Word while it is available to us.
A Call to Obedience
The consequences of rejecting God’s Word are severe and far-reaching. Proverbs 1:24-28 warns that those who reject God’s counsel and refuse His reproof will face calamity, distress, and anguish. When we turn away from God’s Word, we sever our connection with Him and lose the guidance and protection He provides.
Deuteronomy 11:26-28 presents a clear choice before us: blessing or curse. Obedience to God’s commandments brings blessing, while disobeying and rejecting God’s Word leads to curses. It is essential for us to heed God’s Word, obey His commandments, and turn away from the pursuit of worldly desires that lead us away from Him.
The journey back to obedience is always possible with God’s grace. Here are some encouraging tips from the Bible to help you reconnect with your faith:
- Acknowledge your shortcomings: Like David in Psalm 51, start by honestly admitting your sins to God. (Psalm 51:3).
- Seek God’s forgiveness: Trust in His unfailing love and mercy. (Psalm 51:7).
- Commit to change: Ask God to renew your spirit and strengthen your resolve. (Psalm 51:10).
- Embrace God’s Word: Immerse yourself in Scripture to guide your path back to obedience.
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The Path to Restoration
Although the consequences of despising God’s Word are dire, there is hope for restoration. God is a God of mercy and grace, and He offers forgiveness and reconciliation to those who repent and turn back to Him. It may come at a cost, but the redemption and restoration God offers are worth it.
As believers, we must recognize the importance of cherishing and obeying God’s Word. It is through His Word that we find guidance, wisdom, and strength to navigate the challenges of life. Let us not reject His Word but embrace it, allowing it to transform us and lead us into a deeper relationship with Him.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the consequences of rejecting God’s Word are severe and far-reaching. We must heed the warnings from history and recognize the importance of cherishing and obeying God’s Word. Let us not be like those who mock and despise His messengers but rather humble ourselves before Him and embrace His teachings. Through obedience to God’s Word, we can find victory, restoration, and a blessed life in His presence.
