“And David said unto him, How wast thou not afraid to stretch forth thine hand to destroy the LORD’S anointed?” — 2 Samuel 1:14
“But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities.” — 2 Peter 2:10
There is a dangerous spirit in this world that despises God-given authority. The Amalekite in 2 Samuel 1 thought David would reward him for claiming he killed Saul. Instead, David rebuked him because he had no fear concerning “the LORD’S anointed.” David understood that rebellion against rightful authority reveals a proud and fleshly heart.
Peter warned of people who are “selfwilled” and “presumptuous.” They reject restraint, speak against spiritual authority, and exalt their own opinions above God’s order. A rebellious spirit often begins with pride, bitterness, or wounded emotions, but if left unchecked it leads to spiritual destruction.
A humble Christian may disagree at times, but he still fears God, guards his tongue, and respects the positions God has established.
Korah — Numbers 16
Korah rebelled against Moses and Aaron, saying they had taken too much authority upon themselves. But God had appointed those men. Korah’s rebellion was ultimately against the Lord, and judgment followed swiftly when the earth opened and swallowed the rebels.
Diotrephes — 3 John 9-10
Diotrephes loved “to have the preeminence.” He rejected apostolic authority, spoke malicious words, and pushed others away from fellowship. Pride made him resist spiritual leadership instead of submitting to truth.
A rebellious spirit does not usually begin openly — it often starts with disrespectful speech, private criticism, and self-will.
The fear of God teaches us to walk humbly, speak carefully, and honor the order God has established.