The Fall of the Wicked, The Hardening of the Heart
The Fall of the Wicked, The Hardening of the Heart Key Bible Texts Proverbs 28:28 (KJV): "When the wicked rise, men hide themselves: but when they perish, the righteous increase." Proverbs 29:1 (KJV): "He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy." What does it mean? The first verse describes the oppressive effect of wicked rulers and the relief that comes when they fall. When the wicked rise to power, men hide themselves—the people live in fear, withdraw from public life, and suppress their voices to avoid persecution. The presence of evil leadership creates an atmosphere of terror and silence. But when the wicked perish, the righteous increase. The removal of wicked rulers opens the door for the righteous to flourish, to speak openly, and to multiply in influence and number. Justice brings growth and freedom. The second verse delivers a solemn warning to the individual. A person who is often reproved—who re...
