THE CONSEQUENCES OF REBELLION By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: 1 Samuel 15:23 - "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."
________________________________________
Introduction
Rebellion against God has always led to destruction, chaos, and separation from His divine will. From the fall of Lucifer to the disobedience of Adam and Eve, history is full of examples that illustrate the dire consequences of turning away from God's commands. Many today are still living in rebellion, rejecting His truth and following their own desires. This lesson aims to uncover the devastating effects of rebellion and call God's people to a life of obedience and submission to His will.
________________________________________
Rebellion Leads to Separation from God
When a person rebels against God, they create a barrier between themselves and His presence. The first and greatest consequence of rebellion is spiritual death. Adam and Eve, after disobeying God, were cast out of the Garden of Eden and lost their intimate fellowship with Him.
Isaiah 59:2 - "But your iniquities have separated you from your God; and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear."
________________________________________
Rebellion Brings Destruction and Suffering
Throughout the Bible, rebellious individuals and nations faced devastating consequences. The Israelites, despite repeated warnings from God, turned to idolatry and sin. As a result, they experienced plagues, exile, and suffering.
Deuteronomy 28:15 - "But it shall come to pass, if you do not obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments and His statutes which I command you today, that all these curses will come upon you and overtake you."
________________________________________
Rebellion Opens Doors to Demonic Oppression
Disobedience to God aligns a person with the kingdom of darkness, giving room for demonic oppression. King Saul’s rebellion led to his torment by an evil spirit because he rejected God’s instruction.
1 Samuel 16:14 - "But the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and a distressing spirit from the Lord troubled him."
________________________________________
Rebellion Leads to Divine Rejection
When a person continuously rebels, they risk being completely rejected by God. Saul lost his kingship because of his disobedience and was replaced by David, a man after God’s own heart.
1 Samuel 15:26 - "But Samuel said to Saul, ‘I will not return with you, for you have rejected the word of the Lord, and the Lord has rejected you from being king over Israel.’"
________________________________________
The Final Judgment on Rebellion
Ultimately, those who live in rebellion and refuse to repent will face eternal punishment. The Bible makes it clear that the wages of sin is death, and the rebellious will not inherit the Kingdom of God.
Revelation 20:15 - "And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire."
________________________________________
Summary
Rebellion against God leads to separation, suffering, demonic oppression, divine rejection, and eternal damnation. The examples from Scripture remind us that God is just, and He will not tolerate persistent disobedience. However, He is also merciful and calls all people to repentance
_______________________________________
Conclusion
God desires obedience rather than sacrifice. Rebellion is a direct rejection of His authority, and its consequences are severe. Instead of following the path of disobedience, believers are called to humility, submission, and faithfulness to God’s will.
________________________________________
Call to Action
Examine your heart today. Are there areas of rebellion in your life? Turn away from disobedience and submit fully to God. Seek His guidance, walk in His ways, and experience the blessings of obedience.
James 4:7 - "Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you."
________________________________________
Final Word of Encouragement
Even if you have lived in rebellion, God’s grace is still available. He is calling you back to Him with open arms. Do not let sin separate you from His love. Choose today to follow Him wholeheartedly, and He will restore and bless you.
________________________________________
Salvation Prayer
If you desire to turn away from rebellion and accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, pray this prayer with sincerity:
"Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I have sinned and lived in rebellion against You. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I surrender my life to You and ask You to be my Lord and Savior. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to walk in obedience to Your will. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen."
