Blog
Rebellion Reclaiming the Rebel
I. Definitions
What Is Rebellion?
- Rebellion is open opposition to authority or tradition.
- Usually implies disobedience when there should be obedience.
- The Old French word rebelle means “to wage war again.”
What Is Obedience?
- Obedience means being submissive to authority.
- The Latin word oboedire means “to listen.”
What Is the Biblical Picture of Rebellion?
In the Bible, we see rebellion reflected in Israel’s journey. God provided deliverance from bondage, yet the people rebelled by forgetting God’s faithfulness, complaining, and developing bitterness. Despite God’s unfailing love and grace, they failed to develop inner discipline and did not mature in their response to God.
II. Characteristics
Characteristics of a Rebel
- Insolent and Resistant
- Unbelieving and Resentful of authority
- Defensive and Independent
- Complaining and Distrustful
- Greedy and Defiant
The Rebellion Cycle
Conceited
“I want what I want because I’m important.” – Independent living, pleasure seeking
Calculating
“I’ll do whatever it takes to get it.” – Deceptive and manipulative
Condemning
“You don’t really care about me!” – Complaining and blame shifting
Calloused
“I don’t care who it hurts.” – Apathetic and resistant
Contemptuous
“I hate those who get in my way.” – Disrespectful and rule breaking
Controlling
“I won’t give up what I have.” – Possessive and abusive
Breaking the Cycle: Brokenness before God, breaking the willful attitude, and praying for God’s rightful rule over your heart and life.
III. Causes
Surface Causes
- Legalistic homes where grace is not lived out
- Permissive homes where discipline is not established
- Abusive homes with substance or sexual abuse
Root Cause
Wrong Belief: “I will get what I want any way I choose because it’s my right to feel significant!”
Right Belief: “I want to obey God in everything. He will meet my need for significance.”
IV. Steps to Solution
Do’s and Don’ts for Responding to Rebellion
Confrontive Response
Don’t: Excuse or condone the behavior.
Do: Be confrontive toward the conscience.
Convey Love
Don’t: Threaten rejection.
Do: Convey unconditional love and acceptance.
Examine Methods
Don’t: Emotionally retreat or play the martyr.
Do: Examine your methods of responding.
Establish Accountability
Don’t: Bargain for appropriate behavior.
Do: Insist on a system of accountability with consequences.
Nourish Forgiveness
Don’t: Exhibit intense anger.
Do: Nourish an attitude of forgiveness and love.