Topical Encyclopedia The term "selfwilled" is used in the Bible to describe a person who is obstinate, stubborn, and determined to follow their own desires and inclinations, often in defiance of God's will or the guidance of spiritual authorities. This characteristic is generally viewed negatively in Scripture, as it reflects a heart that is resistant to divine instruction and correction.Biblical References: 1. Titus 1:7 : "As an overseer of God’s household, he must be blameless—not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not greedy for money." In this passage, the Apostle Paul outlines the qualifications for church leaders, emphasizing that they must not be selfwilled. This highlights the importance of humility and submission to God's will in leadership, contrasting with the self-centeredness that can lead to discord and division within the church. 2. 2 Peter 2:10 : "Such punishment is specially reserved for those who indulge the corrupt desires of the flesh and despise authority. Bold and self-willed, they are unafraid to slander glorious beings." Here, Peter warns against false teachers and those who live according to their own desires, showing contempt for authority. The selfwilled nature of these individuals is linked to their boldness in sin and their disregard for spiritual truths and authorities. Characteristics of the Selfwilled: · Rebellion Against Authority: Selfwilled individuals often resist authority, whether it be divine, ecclesiastical, or civil. This rebellion is rooted in pride and a desire for autonomy, which can lead to destructive behavior and a breakdown in community and order. · Pride and Arrogance: The selfwilled person is often characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, believing their own wisdom and desires to be superior to those of others, including God. This pride blinds them to the truth and makes them resistant to correction. · Lack of Submission: A selfwilled heart is unwilling to submit to God's will, preferring instead to pursue personal ambitions and desires. This lack of submission is contrary to the biblical call for believers to deny themselves and follow Christ (Matthew 16:24). Consequences of Being Selfwilled: · Spiritual Blindness: The selfwilled person is often spiritually blind, unable to see the truth of God's Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This blindness can lead to further sin and separation from God. · Disunity and Conflict: Within the church, selfwilled individuals can cause division and strife, as their refusal to submit to leadership and communal discernment disrupts the unity of the body of Christ. · Judgment and Discipline: Scripture warns that those who persist in selfwilled behavior will face divine judgment and discipline. God's desire is for repentance and transformation, but persistent rebellion can lead to severe consequences. Contrast with Godly Submission: In contrast to the selfwilled, the Bible calls believers to a life of submission and humility. James 4:7 exhorts, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." This submission is not a sign of weakness but a recognition of God's sovereignty and wisdom. It is through submission that believers find true freedom and fulfillment in God's perfect will. Concordance Selfwilled (1 Occurrence)2 Peter 2:10 Thesaurus Selfwilled (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Selfwilled (1 Occurrence). ... Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. (KJV). ... /s/selfwilled.htm - 6k Self-will (2 Occurrences) Lucre (5 Occurrences) Filthy (22 Occurrences) Dignities (3 Occurrences) Striker (3 Occurrences) Self-willed (4 Occurrences) Angry (269 Occurrences) Uncleanness (56 Occurrences) Unclean (393 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |