Topical Encyclopedia Condemnation, in the biblical context, refers to the judgment and disapproval by God upon sin and unrighteousness. The Scriptures consistently affirm that God's judgment is just and that His condemnation is a response to sin. However, the Bible also reveals that condemnation is not merely a result of sin itself but is significantly increased by the hardness of heart and impenitence of individuals.Impenitence Defined Impenitence is the state of being unrepentant, showing no remorse or contrition for one's sins. It is a willful persistence in sin, characterized by a refusal to acknowledge wrongdoing or seek forgiveness. The Bible warns that such a state leads to greater condemnation because it reflects a rejection of God's grace and mercy. Biblical Examples and Teachings 1. Romans 2:5 : "But because of your hard and unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of wrath, when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed." This verse highlights that an unrepentant heart accumulates divine wrath, indicating that impenitence exacerbates one's condemnation. 2. Hebrews 10:26-27 : "If we deliberately go on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no further sacrifice for sins remains, but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume all adversaries." Here, the deliberate continuation in sin after knowing the truth is a form of impenitence that leads to severe judgment. 3. Proverbs 29:1 : "A man who remains stiff-necked after much reproof will suddenly be shattered beyond recovery." This proverb illustrates the danger of resisting correction and remaining impenitent, which results in sudden and irreversible destruction. 4. Matthew 11:20-24 : Jesus denounces the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum for their unrepentance despite witnessing His miracles. He declares that their judgment will be more severe than that of Sodom and Gomorrah, emphasizing that impenitence in the face of divine revelation increases condemnation. Theological Implications The increase of condemnation due to impenitence underscores the gravity of rejecting God's offer of repentance and forgiveness. It is not merely the act of sin that incurs judgment, but the persistent refusal to turn from sin and seek reconciliation with God. This principle is rooted in the justice of God, who desires repentance and offers grace but will not overlook a hardened heart. Call to Repentance The biblical call to repentance is urgent and clear. God, in His mercy, provides opportunities for repentance and restoration. As seen in 2 Peter 3:9 : "The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." This divine patience is an invitation to turn from impenitence and avoid increased condemnation. Conclusion The biblical teaching on condemnation increased by impenitence serves as a solemn warning and a call to repentance. It highlights the seriousness of a hardened heart and the necessity of seeking God's forgiveness through Jesus Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 11:20-24Then began he to upbraid the cities wherein most of his mighty works were done, because they repented not: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library A Doomed People A Warning Rejected. A Warning Rejected Woes on the Pharisees C. The Third Period. Chs. 6:12 to 8:56 The Mystery An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... part ii Resources What does it mean that God is merciful? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of federal headship? | GotQuestions.org Does the Bible teach mortal and venial sin? | GotQuestions.org Condemnation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Condemnation of the Wicked, an Example Condemnation: According to Men's Deserts Condemnation: Apostates Ordained To Condemnation: Chastisements are Designed to Rescue Us From Condemnation: Conscience Testifies to the Justice of Condemnation: Increased by Hypocrisy Condemnation: Increased by Impenitence Condemnation: Increased by Oppression Condemnation: Increased by Pride Condemnation: Increased by Unbelief Condemnation: Inseparable Consequence of Sin Condemnation: Saints are Delivered From, by Christ Condemnation: The Law is the Ministration of Condemnation: The Law Testifies to the Justice of Condemnation: The Sentence of God Against Sin Condemnation: Unbelievers Remain Under Condemnation: Universal, Caused by the Offense of Adam Related Terms Transgression (70 Occurrences) Licentiousness (10 Occurrences) Lasciviousness (9 Occurrences) |