Human Resistance to Christ's Return and Rule
The human resistance to Christ’s return reveals the total depravity and spiritual blindness of the unregenerate heart. As John 3:19 states, “And this is the test by which men are judged: the light has come into the world and men have more love for the dark than for the light, because their acts are evil.” This passage demonstrates that the natural inclination of fallen humanity is not merely to ignore divine truth, but to actively prefer the darkness of sin over the exposing light of Christ. The resistance is not a political or intellectual disagreement, but a moral rebellion rooted in a heart that delights in its own corruption.
Theologically, this confirms the doctrine of original sin and the necessity of effectual grace. Romans 13:2 warns, “Therefore he that resisteth the power, withstandeth the ordinance of God: and they that withstand shall receive to themselves judgment.” To oppose the King of Kings is to place oneself in direct conflict with the sovereign authority of God, a stance that inevitably leads to divine judgment. This resistance highlights that no one can submit to Christ’s rule by their own will; as Charles Hodge notes, the command to believe does not assume the power to exercise saving faith, which is a gift of God. The general call of the gospel is offered to all, but only the elect are made willing to accept it.
Pastorally, this truth serves as both a sobering warning and a profound comfort. It exposes the futility of human effort in seeking God, reminding believers that their own submission to Christ was not a product of their moral superiority, but of His sovereign grace. For the believer, the assurance of perseverance rests on the fact that God’s Spirit has overcome this inherent resistance. The knowledge that one’s heart was once opposed to the King, yet is now drawn to Him, deepens gratitude and humility. This resistance underscores the glory of the gospel: that Christ does not merely call, but conquers, transforming rebels into subjects of His kingdom by the power of the Holy Spirit.