Walking in hostility against God refers to a state of living in opposition to God's will, commands, and purposes. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where individuals or nations choose to defy God's authority, leading to spiritual and often physical consequences.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible frequently addresses the theme of hostility against God, often using the imagery of walking to describe one's life journey or conduct. In Leviticus 26:27-28 , God warns the Israelites, "But if in spite of this you do not obey Me, but continue to walk in hostility toward Me, then I will walk in fury against you, and I, even I, will discipline you sevenfold for your sins." This passage highlights the reciprocal nature of hostility; when people persist in rebellion, God responds with righteous judgment.

Old Testament Examples

1. Israel's Rebellion: The history of Israel is replete with instances of walking in hostility against God. Despite being chosen as God's people, the Israelites frequently turned to idolatry and disobedience. In Jeremiah 7:24 , it is written, "Yet they did not listen or incline their ear, but walked in the counsels and in the stubbornness of their evil hearts, and went backward and not forward."

2. Nations Against God: The Old Testament also records the hostility of pagan nations against God. The Philistines, Assyrians, and Babylonians, among others, often acted in defiance of God's sovereignty, leading to their eventual downfall as prophesied by the prophets.

New Testament Insights

In the New Testament, the concept of hostility against God is expanded to include not only overt rebellion but also the rejection of Jesus Christ. Romans 8:7 states, "The mind of the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so." This passage underscores the inherent enmity between the sinful nature of humanity and the holiness of God.

Spiritual Implications

Walking in hostility against God is not merely an external act but a condition of the heart. James 4:4 warns, "You adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore, whoever chooses to be a friend of the world renders himself an enemy of God." This verse emphasizes that aligning oneself with worldly values and systems is tantamount to enmity with God.

Consequences

The Bible consistently teaches that walking in hostility against God leads to severe consequences. These include spiritual separation, loss of divine favor, and eventual judgment. Proverbs 11:21 assures, "Be assured that the wicked will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will escape."

Call to Reconciliation

Despite the grave nature of hostility against God, the Bible offers hope for reconciliation. Through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, individuals can be restored to a right relationship with God. Colossians 1:21-22 declares, "Once you were alienated from God and were hostile in your minds because of your evil deeds. But now He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy, unblemished, and blameless in His presence."

Conclusion

Walking in hostility against God is a serious spiritual condition with profound implications. The Bible calls individuals to examine their hearts, turn from rebellion, and embrace the peace and reconciliation offered through Jesus Christ.