GOOD OR BAD AND UGLY

READING: 1 SAMUEL 15:13-23

Verse 23: “For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He also has rejected you from being king.”

There is a phrase in the verse above that has shocked and convicted people who have been in rebellion. This is the phrase that states rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft. Those who are convicted by this statement because they are serious about being Christians, accept it and repent from rebellion without any further explanation. However, there are also understandings that serve to reinforce this scriptural truth. Following is a little of that understanding regarding how rebellion and witchcraft are alike. Rebellion is defined as “active opposition to authority.” In other words, a rebellious person tries to do what he or she decides regardless of directions, instructions or rules. The practice of witchcraft is also a person’s attempt to do or obtain what they want. In this case it is being attempted by engaging in occult practices. Both behaviors involve people giving priority to their will and, in the process, disregarding established constraints. Rebellion and witchcraft are both efforts to be in control, and that is the essence of sin. They are foolish activities because they oppose God’s order. How much better it is to instead submit to the authority of the Lord, and to experience loving reward rather than condemnation! That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. Is either of the two behaviors above worse than the other?

2. How do people choose condemnation over loving reward?