Understanding the Metaphor

In Bible times, an oxgoad—a long rod usually tipped with a sharp metal spike—was used for driving and guiding draft animals. The goad would prod the animal to move in the desired direction. If the animal resisted by kicking against the goad, it would only inflict pain upon itself rather than gain relief. This metaphor vividly illustrates the futility and self-inflicted harm of resisting divine guidance.

Saul’s Encounter with Jesus

The resurrected Jesus Christ used this metaphor when he appeared to Saul on the road to Damascus. Saul, known later as the Apostle Paul, was on his way to arrest some of Jesus’ disciples. Acts 26:14 recounts Jesus’ words: “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? To keep kicking against the goads makes it hard for you.” By persecuting Christians, Saul was, in reality, fighting against God, a futile and self-destructive endeavor. This dramatic encounter led to Saul’s conversion, profoundly changing his life and mission.

Personal Application

The metaphor of kicking against the goads can also apply to us. Are there ways in which we might be resisting God’s guidance and thereby harming ourselves? The Bible likens “the words of the wise” to oxgoads that prod us toward the right path. Ecclesiastes 12:11 states, “The words of the wise are like goads, and like nails firmly fixed are the collected sayings; they are given by one Shepherd.” This highlights the purpose of wise counsel—to steer us in the right direction.

The Role of Scripture

The inspired counsel in God’s Word acts as a goad, guiding and motivating us toward righteous living. 2 Timothy 3:16 affirms, “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” By embracing the teachings and corrections found in Scripture, we align our lives with God’s will. Resisting these proddings can only result in spiritual harm and missed blessings.

Examples of Resistance

There are various ways we might resist God’s guidance. Proverbs 3:1-6 provides wisdom on trusting in Jehovah and not leaning on our own understanding. It reads, “My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. Trust in Jehovah with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

Ignoring this counsel by relying on our own flawed understanding rather than trusting in Jehovah is akin to kicking against the goads. This resistance can lead to unnecessary hardships and spiritual setbacks.

The Example of Saul’s Transformation

Saul’s radical transformation into the Apostle Paul is a powerful testament to the blessings of heeding divine counsel. Initially, Saul’s zealous persecution of Christians exemplified resistance to God’s will. However, after his encounter with Jesus, Saul took Jesus’ words to heart, changed his course, and became one of the most influential apostles. Philippians 3:7-8 captures Paul’s shift in perspective: “But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.”

Paul’s example demonstrates the profound impact of yielding to God’s guidance. His life, once marked by opposition to God, became a testament to the power of grace and obedience. Paul’s writings and ministry continue to guide and encourage believers today.

Heeding Divine Counsel

Heeding divine counsel, like Saul did, brings blessings and aligns us with God’s purpose. Proverbs 4:20-22 advises, “My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh.” Embracing God’s word and letting it guide our actions results in spiritual health and vitality.

The Importance of Submission

James 4:7-8 emphasizes the importance of submitting to God: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” Submission to God’s will involves resisting the temptation to follow our own path and instead drawing near to Him, which leads to spiritual growth and protection from evil influences.

The Role of the Spirit-Inspired Word

While there is no indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers today, we are guided by the Spirit-inspired Word of God. This Word provides the necessary prodding and direction for our lives. The words translated “understand” in 1 Corinthians 2:12 and 14 are best understood as meaning something other than simply acquiring a correct mental grasp of meaning. They refer rather to embracing these biblical truths as true. It is probably best to see the expressions “does not accept,” “folly,” and “not able to understand” as referring to various ways in which the unbeliever critiques the divine revelation. 1 Corinthians 2:14 does not mean the unbeliever cannot understand the Bible without the Holy Spirit. It means the unbeliever sees it as foolish and rejects its truths. The Christian is guided by having the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16). How do we acquire the mind of Christ? By being biblically minded.

Becoming Biblically Minded

Becoming biblically minded involves careful analysis of Scripture’s genres, historical context, and language. This comprehensive approach allows us to understand the original meanings intended by the Bible authors and apply these timeless truths to our lives. This diligent study equips us to follow God’s guidance accurately and avoid the pitfalls of resistance.

By understanding and applying the wisdom found in Scripture, we align ourselves with God’s will, avoiding the self-inflicted pain of “kicking against the goads.” This alignment leads to a fruitful and spiritually fulfilling life, grounded in the truth of God’s Word.

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