Topical Encyclopedia The term "Evil Generation" is a biblical designation used to describe a group of people characterized by their persistent disobedience, unbelief, and moral corruption. This term is often employed in the Scriptures to highlight the contrast between the righteous and the wicked, emphasizing the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the truth.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the concept of an "evil generation" is often associated with the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. Despite witnessing God's miraculous deliverance from Egypt and His provision in the desert, the Israelites frequently rebelled against Him. In Deuteronomy 1:35 , God declares, "Not one of the men of this evil generation shall see the good land I swore to give your fathers." This pronouncement underscores the severity of their unbelief and disobedience, resulting in their exclusion from the Promised Land. The prophets also spoke against the evil generation of their times. Jeremiah, for instance, lamented the moral decay and idolatry of the people, describing them as an "evil generation" that refused to heed God's word (Jeremiah 7:28). New Testament Context In the New Testament, Jesus Christ Himself uses the term "evil generation" to describe the people of His day who demanded signs and rejected His message. In Matthew 12:39 , Jesus responds to the scribes and Pharisees, saying, "A wicked and adulterous generation demands a sign, but none will be given it except the sign of the prophet Jonah." Here, the term underscores the spiritual blindness and hardness of heart prevalent among those who refused to accept Jesus as the Messiah. Similarly, in Luke 11:29 , Jesus reiterates this condemnation: "As the crowds were increasing, Jesus said, 'This is a wicked generation. It demands a sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah.'" The repetition of this rebuke highlights the persistent unbelief and moral corruption of the people, despite the clear evidence of Jesus' divine authority and mission. Characteristics of an Evil Generation The Bible outlines several characteristics that define an evil generation: 1. Unbelief and Rebellion: An evil generation is marked by a refusal to trust in God's promises and a tendency to rebel against His commandments. This is evident in the Israelites' repeated disobedience in the wilderness and the rejection of Jesus by the religious leaders of His time. 2. Moral Corruption: An evil generation is characterized by widespread immorality and idolatry. The prophets frequently condemned the people for their moral decay and turning away from God to worship false idols. 3. Spiritual Blindness: An evil generation is often spiritually blind, unable or unwilling to recognize the truth of God's revelation. This is seen in the demand for signs by those who had already witnessed Jesus' miracles and teachings. 4. Judgment and Consequences: The Bible consistently warns that an evil generation will face divine judgment and consequences for their actions. This is exemplified in the Israelites' exclusion from the Promised Land and Jesus' warnings of impending judgment on those who rejected Him. Relevance for Today The concept of an "evil generation" serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God. It calls believers to examine their own lives, ensuring they do not fall into the same patterns of unbelief and rebellion. The warnings given to past generations serve as lessons for contemporary believers to remain steadfast in their faith and committed to living according to God's Word. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 1:35Surely there shall not one of these men of this evil generation see that good land, which I swore to give to your fathers. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Psalm LXXXIII. Introduction. On the Arian Symbol "Unoriginate. " this Term Afterwards Adopted ... The Fourth Book Intercourse of Jesus with the Pagans and the Samaritans. Antichrist. Cli. Letter or Address of Theodoret to the Monks of the ... Psalm LXXIII. Rondelet, {7} the Huguenot Naturalist {8} To Cledonius the Priest against Apollinarius. (Ep. Ci. ) Resources What are the names of Satan? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a spiritual father? | GotQuestions.org Is God male or female? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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