Sins Stinging Goad Introduction MerriamWebsters Collegiate Dictionary defines

Sin’s Stinging Goad

Introduction �Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary defines a goad as “(1 a) something that pricks like a goad: thorn; (1 b) something that urges or stimulates into action: spur; (2) a pointed rod used to urge on an animal. ” �The Greek word kentron, which is translated “goad” or “sting, ” occurs 4 x in the NT (Acts 26: 14; 1 Cor. 15: 55, 56; Rev 9: 10).

Thomas & BDAG’s Definition �Thomas defines kentron as from kenteō [to prick], meaning “a sharp point. ” �BDAG say that kentron, which is derived from kenteō, i. e. , “prick, spur on, ” used generally of a “sharp point, ” specifically identified as: “the sting of an animal…” or “a pointed stick that serves the same purpose as a whip, a goad. ”

Strong/Thayer’s Definition a sting, as that of bees, scorpions, locusts. Since animals wound by their sting and even cause death, Paul attributes death, personified as a sting, i. e. a deadly weapon; 2. an iron goad, for urging on oxen, horses and other beasts of burden; hence the proverb, “to kick against the goad”, i. e. to offer vain and perilous or ruinous resistance. ” 1.

The Sting of an Insect or Reptile

An Iron Goad, or Pointed Stick, for Urging on Oxen, Horses, etc.

Man’s Rebellion �Lured by the promise of pleasure, many become addicted to alcohol; however, at the last it bites like a serpent and stings like a viper (Prov. 23: 29 -35). �So it is with sin in general; it takes us further than we want to go, costing us more than we wanted to pay (Heb. 3: 12 -13).

God’s Provision �God has graciously made provision for reconciliation and forgiveness (2 Cor. 5: 18 -21). �If we respond in obedience, the sting of sin and death are removed (1 Cor. 15: 50 -58; cf. Isaiah 25: 6 -8). �However, those who persist in rebellion forfeit any hope of pardon or deliverance (Hos. 13: 12 -16).

Conclusion �In his rebellion against God’s plan and purpose, Saul was only hurting himself; thankfully, he responded in obedience to the Lord’s invitation (Acts 26: 9 -20). �Many feel the sting of divine judgments, but persist in their rebellion (Rev. 9: 1 -21). �Will we be stubbornly foolish, or will we wisely accept the chastening of the Lord (Heb. 12: 4 -11; 1 Tim. 1: 12 -17)?