Faith & Reason Nexus

“Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.”
— Hebrews 12:15

Some Frequent Roots of Bitterness:

Failure to Convert

• “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine…” (2 Timothy 4:1-4)
• “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.” (1 Corinthians 3:6)
• “But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy…” (Acts 13:45-46)

Offensives

• “It is impossible that no offenses should come…” (Luke 17:1-5)
• “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger be put away from you…” (Ephesians 4:31-32)
• “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault…” (Matthew 18:15-17)

Failure of Professed Christians

• “Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world…” (2 Timothy 4:10, 16)
• “Let us not grow weary while doing good…” (Galatians 6:9)

Discipline

• “Withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly…” (2 Thessalonians 3:6, 14-15)
• “Sufficient for such a one is this punishment…” (2 Corinthians 2:6-7)
• “Reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition…” (Titus 3:10)

Sickness/Tragedy

• “In all this, Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong.” (Job 1:22)
• “A thorn in the flesh was given to me… My grace is sufficient for you…” (2 Corinthians 12:7-9)
• “Do not be surprised at the fiery trial which comes upon you…” (1 Peter 4:12)

Restraints of God’s Word

• “Whoever divorces his wife… and marries another commits adultery.” (Matthew 19:9)
• “Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ…” (2 John 9-11)
• “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven…” (Matthew 7:21-23)

Bitterness Can Be Tragic to One’s Soul!

Allowing bitterness to take root can lead to spiritual destruction. Guard your heart and seek forgiveness, healing, and the grace of God to overcome bitterness.