And how to deal with these scenarios.

Sometimes, we meet people who argue against the supernatural work of God, spiritual gifts, or the authority believers have in Christ. They may even speak harshly or dismissively about things that are ordinary to the Spirit-filled life. If you have ever wrestled with this, it is important to understand why it happens and how Scripture explains it.

Let’s get into it.

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1. Resistance Often Comes From a Lack of Identity in Christ

Before anyone can fully embrace spiritual authority or the gifts of the Spirit, they must understand who they are in Christ.

Scripture reminds us:

“For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:26)
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

When someone does not grasp their identity as God’s child, everything spiritual feels threatening or confusing. They interpret Scripture through fear or doubt instead of confidence and faith.

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2. Authority in Christ Feels Dangerous to the Uninformed

Believers are given authority over sin, the enemy, and the spiritual forces of darkness:

“I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” (Luke 10:19)

Someone who does not understand or experience this authority may resist it. They may reject spiritual gifts, mock supernatural experiences, or argue from a place of fear. Authority exposes weakness and sin, and people outside of obedience or true submission often reject what exposes them.

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3. Fear and Sin Can Cloud Spiritual Discernment

The Bible teaches:

“The natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.” (1 Corinthians 2:14)

When people live in open sin or are outside God’s order, their ability to perceive the Spirit is clouded. This resistance is not merely intellectual but spiritual. The things of the Spirit feel threatening to someone who has not fully embraced obedience and holiness.

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4. Leadership and Influence Matters

Sometimes, people argue hardest against spiritual truths because they are leading someone else astray, whether intentionally or not. Scripture warns:

“If the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit.” (Matthew 15:14)

Spiritual authority in a relationship is a serious responsibility. When someone lacking in understanding becomes the primary spiritual influence over another, it can stunt the other person’s growth and understanding.

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5. Your Role Is Not to Fix Others

It is easy to feel frustrated when witnessing this dynamic, but God calls us to discern, pray, and speak truth, not to force transformation.

“Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.” (1 Timothy 4:16)

You can love, pray, and shine light without allowing the enemy to drag you into anger, frustration, or judgment. Your clarity in Christ protects your own spiritual walk and serves as a witness to others.

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6. What Resistance Reveals

When someone resists spiritual authority or gifts, it often reveals:

• Immaturity in the faith
• Fear of God’s power or conviction
• Insecurity about their identity in Christ
• Unrecognized sin or rebellion
• A need for guidance and correction

These insights are not meant to shame anyone. They are a lens through which to see spiritual reality clearly.

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Closing Encouragement

If you recognize these patterns in someone you love, remember that the Holy Spirit is the one who convicts and transforms hearts. Your role is to stand firm in truth, remain compassionate, and let God handle the work that only He can do.

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21)

By understanding the reasons people resist spiritual truth, you can maintain peace, guard your heart, and continue to grow in your own identity and authority in Christ. Your witness may even reach those who are spiritually blind or struggling, opening a door for them to encounter God in a new way.

Until next time, my friend.