Instinct
/IN-stinkt/
Summary
Natural impulse guiding animal behavior, contrasted in Scripture with human reason and divine guidance.
☩Animal Wisdom
Scripture observes that animals follow instinctive patterns given by God. The stork knows her appointed times; birds migrate according to their seasons. Such instinctive behavior rebukes human beings who ignore God's clear directions while animals follow their Creator's design.
Key verses:Jeremiah 8:7Job 39:13-18
☩Corrupt Instinct
Peter and Jude speak of false teachers as 'natural brute beasts'—following corrupt instincts rather than spiritual wisdom. They are led by appetites and passions like irrational animals, heading for destruction. This contrasts with those who are guided by the Spirit.
Key verses:2 Peter 2:12Jude 1:10
