Repulsiveness, in a biblical context, often refers to that which is morally or spiritually detestable, offensive, or abhorrent to God. The concept is closely associated with sin, impurity, and actions or attitudes that are contrary to the holiness and righteousness of God. Throughout Scripture, repulsiveness is depicted as a characteristic of behaviors and practices that lead individuals away from God's will and purpose.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often associated with repulsiveness is "toebah," commonly translated as "abomination." This term is used to describe practices that are detestable to God, such as idolatry, sexual immorality, and unjust practices. For example, in Leviticus 18:22, the practice of homosexuality is described as an abomination: "You must not lie with a man as with a woman; that is an abomination" . Similarly, Proverbs 6:16-19 lists behaviors that are repulsive to God, including haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood.

Idolatry is frequently highlighted as repulsive to God. In Deuteronomy 7:25-26, the Israelites are commanded to destroy the idols of the nations they conquer and not to bring any abominable thing into their homes, lest they become accursed like the idols themselves. This underscores the seriousness with which God views idolatry and its repulsive nature.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, repulsiveness is often linked to the sinful nature and actions that are contrary to the teachings of Christ. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently addresses behaviors that are repulsive to God and incompatible with the Christian life. In Galatians 5:19-21, Paul lists the "works of the flesh," which include sexual immorality, idolatry, and envy, warning that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Jesus Himself addresses the issue of repulsiveness in the form of hypocrisy and self-righteousness. In Matthew 23, He pronounces woes upon the scribes and Pharisees for their outward religiosity that masks inward corruption, calling them "whitewashed tombs" (Matthew 23:27). This imagery highlights the repulsiveness of appearing righteous while harboring sin and deceit.

Spiritual Implications

Repulsiveness in the biblical sense is not merely about external actions but also the condition of the heart. God desires purity and holiness from His people, as seen in passages like Psalm 51:10, where David prays, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me" . The call to holiness is a call to reject what is repulsive to God and to pursue righteousness.

The Bible also provides a remedy for repulsiveness through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. In 1 John 1:9, believers are assured that "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" . This cleansing is essential for overcoming the repulsiveness of sin and living a life pleasing to God.

Conclusion

While the Bible clearly identifies certain behaviors and attitudes as repulsive, it also offers hope and redemption through Jesus Christ. Believers are called to live in a manner that reflects God's holiness, rejecting what is detestable and embracing what is good and pure.