Self-determination, though seemingly a noble concept, often becomes a tool for sowing discord among people. It is the idea of free choice to decide one's own actions or state without outside influence, which is inherently appealing to human nature as we resist being told what to do. However, this principle has been used historically and currently to create strife and division. In the case of Czechoslovakia in 1938, Hitler exploited self-determination to sow discord among the Sudeten Germans, convincing them they deserved a separate destiny despite their prosperity and rights within a democratic state. This propaganda led to the eventual annexation of the Sudetenland and the weakening of Czechoslovakia, demonstrating how self-determination can be manipulated to destructive ends. Similarly, in modern times, the push for self-determination is seen in the Middle East, where Arab regimes argue that Palestinians deserve this right, paralleling the tactics used by the Nazis. This has led to territorial concessions and ongoing tension, showing that the promise of self-determination often masks ulterior motives for control and division. Within communities, including the church, self-determination is used as a banner by some who feel unfairly treated, promoting discord by enticing others with promises of liberation from perceived tyranny. Yet, these promises often lead to enslavement to corruption, as those who advocate for such liberty are themselves bound by it. The destructive nature of self-determination when used to sow discord is evident in various global examples, such as self-interest groups in different countries pushing for special rights or separation, further fragmenting societies. This principle, often fueled by pride and dissatisfaction, moves people away from unity and towards division, a tactic that satan employs successfully in both the world and the church. As seen in historical and biblical contexts, God hates discord and reacts strongly against those who sow it, emphasizing the need for humility and acceptance of one's lot rather than murmuring or complaining under the guise of seeking self-determination. Instead, we are called to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, doing all things without complaining or disputing, to shine as lights in a crooked and perverse generation.

The concept of self-determination, as seen in ancient teachings, promotes the idea that individuals can overcome the constraints established in Eden and mature in their personality by doing anything they desire, even to the point of taking on prerogatives of God Himself. This notion, taught by the Babylonian priestess Enheduanna, reflects a rebellion against the divine order. Inanna, a goddess praised by Enheduanna, was celebrated for taking lovers at will, disregarding the divine order of marriage. Similarly, the worship of Ashtoreth, an iteration of Inanna, involved phallic symbols that mocked what God established in Eden. This rejection of divine structure extends to the family, where the patriarchal role of the husband as head is now viewed with disdain, driven by an ancient, anti-God spirit that continues to motivate humanity to rebel against what He instituted. Additionally, the pervasive influence of Babylonian culture, as seen in Achan's desire for a Babylonian garment despite God's clear instructions, illustrates how enticing cultural elements can lead individuals to defy divine commands in pursuit of personal desire.

The spirit of Babylon embodies a core attitude of self-determination and independence, fiercely rebelling against submission to anything beyond its own desires. This pervasive influence, seen from Eden to the prophecies of the end times, antagonizes every institution of God, pushing humans toward a deliberate rejection of divine order. In Revelation 18:4, a voice from heaven urges, "Come out of her, My people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues," highlighting the urgent need to resist this spirit. Despite its relentless advance, the call remains to examine and reject the lingering desire for self-determination that keeps God at a distance.