The term "refusedst" is an archaic form of the verb "refuse," which appears in older translations of the Bible. It is used to describe the act of declining or rejecting something. In the context of Scripture, "refusedst" often pertains to the rejection of God's commands, wisdom, or messengers. This entry explores the usage and implications of "refusedst" within the biblical narrative, emphasizing the spiritual and moral lessons derived from such refusals.

Biblical Context and Usage

1. Rejection of God's Commandments: The act of refusing God's commandments is a recurring theme in the Bible, illustrating the consequences of disobedience. In the Old Testament, the Israelites frequently "refused" to obey God's laws, leading to periods of judgment and exile. For instance, in Nehemiah 9:17 , it is recorded, "They refused to listen and failed to remember the wonders You performed among them. They stiffened their necks and appointed a leader to return to their bondage in Egypt."

2. Refusal of Wisdom: The Book of Proverbs often contrasts the wise with those who refuse wisdom. 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 refusal is depicted as folly, leading to ruin and distress.

3. Rejection of Prophets and Messengers: Throughout the Bible, God's prophets were often met with refusal and hostility. In the New Testament, Jesus laments over Jerusalem for its history of rejecting prophets. Matthew 23:37 reflects this sentiment: "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."

4. Refusal of Christ: The ultimate refusal in the New Testament is the rejection of Jesus Christ as the Messiah. John 1:11 states, "He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him." This refusal is central to the narrative of salvation history, highlighting the division between belief and unbelief.

Theological Implications

The act of refusing God's will is portrayed as a grave spiritual error with significant consequences. It underscores the importance of obedience, humility, and receptivity to divine guidance. The refusal to heed God's word is often linked with pride, stubbornness, and a hardened heart, which are seen as barriers to spiritual growth and relationship with God.

Moral and Spiritual Lessons

1. Obedience and Submission: The biblical narrative encourages believers to submit to God's authority and embrace His commandments. Refusal is depicted as a path leading away from God's blessings and protection.

2. Openness to Divine Wisdom: The refusal of wisdom is portrayed as a lack of discernment. Believers are urged to seek and embrace divine wisdom, which leads to life and prosperity.

3. Acceptance of God's Messengers: The rejection of prophets and messengers serves as a warning to remain open to God's voice, whether through Scripture, spiritual leaders, or personal conviction.

4. Faith in Christ: The refusal of Christ is the most significant rejection, with eternal implications. Believers are called to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, recognizing Him as the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

In summary, "refusedst" serves as a reminder of the importance of heeding God's call, embracing His wisdom, and accepting His Son, Jesus Christ. The biblical narrative consistently warns against the spiritual dangers of refusal and highlights the blessings of obedience and faith.

The Excellence of the Abiding Glory of virginity; the Soul
... and strive to defile its godlike and lovely image, as the prophet Jeremiah shows,
reproaching Jerusalem, "Thou hadst a whore's forehead, thou refusedst to be ...
/.../chapter i the excellence of the.htm

Refusedst (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Refusedst (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 3:3 Therefore
the showers have been withholden, and there hath been ...
/r/refusedst.htm - 6k

Refuses (21 Occurrences)

/r/refuses.htm - 12k

Whore's (1 Occurrence)
... Jeremiah 3:3 Therefore the showers have been withholden, and there hath been no
latter rain; and thou hadst a whore's forehead, thou refusedst to be ashamed. ...
/w/whore's.htm - 6k

Withholden (12 Occurrences)
... Jeremiah 3:3 Therefore the showers have been withholden, and there hath been no
latter rain; and thou hadst a whore's forehead, thou refusedst to be ashamed. ...
/w/withholden.htm - 10k

Rains (16 Occurrences)
... Jeremiah 3:3 Therefore the showers have been withheld, and there hath been no latter
rain; yet thou hadst a harlot's forehead, thou refusedst to be ashamed. ...
/r/rains.htm - 10k

Hadst (43 Occurrences)
... Jeremiah 3:3 Therefore the showers have been withholden, and there hath been no
latter rain; and thou hadst a whore's forehead, thou refusedst to be ashamed. ...
/h/hadst.htm - 20k

Refused (89 Occurrences)

/r/refused.htm - 33k

Harlot's (10 Occurrences)
... Jeremiah 3:3 Therefore the showers have been withholden, and there hath been no
latter rain; yet thou hast a harlot's forehead, thou refusedst to be ashamed. ...
/h/harlot's.htm - 9k

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