2 Chronicles 36:16

But they mocked the messengers of God, despising His words and scoffing at His prophets, until the wrath of the LORD against His people was stirred up beyond remedy.

Study Bible

But they mocked the messengers of God
This phrase highlights the persistent rebellion and disrespect shown by the people of Judah towards God's appointed messengers. Throughout the Old Testament, prophets were sent by God to deliver His messages, often calling for repentance and warning of impending judgment. The mocking of these messengers reflects a hardened heart and a refusal to heed divine warnings. This behavior is reminiscent of the treatment of prophets like Jeremiah, who faced ridicule and persecution (Jeremiah 20:7-8). The rejection of God's messengers is a recurring theme, seen also in the New Testament with the rejection of Jesus and His apostles (Matthew 23:37).

despising His words
Despising God's words indicates a deep-seated contempt for divine instruction and guidance. The words of God, delivered through the prophets, were meant to guide, correct, and lead the people back to righteousness. However, the people of Judah chose to ignore and belittle these words, demonstrating a lack of reverence and fear of the Lord. This attitude is contrasted with the biblical call to treasure God's word (Psalm 119:11) and to live by it (Deuteronomy 8:3). The rejection of God's words ultimately leads to spiritual decay and judgment.

and scoffing at His prophets
Scoffing at the prophets signifies a dismissive and scornful attitude towards those who were chosen to convey God's messages. Prophets like Isaiah, Ezekiel, and Jeremiah often faced opposition and ridicule from the very people they were sent to help. This scoffing is indicative of a broader cultural and spiritual decline, where the sacred is treated with disdain. The New Testament echoes this sentiment, warning that in the last days, scoffers will come, following their own desires (2 Peter 3:3).

until the wrath of the LORD against His people was stirred up
The phrase underscores the consequence of persistent disobedience and rebellion. God's wrath is not arbitrary but is a response to the continuous rejection of His covenant and commands. The stirring up of God's wrath is a theme seen throughout the Old Testament, where divine patience eventually gives way to judgment when repentance is absent. This is evident in the Babylonian exile, where Judah's persistent sin led to their downfall (2 Kings 24:20). The concept of divine wrath serves as a sobering reminder of God's holiness and justice.

beyond remedy
This phrase indicates a point of no return, where the opportunity for repentance and restoration has been exhausted. The idea of being beyond remedy is a tragic outcome of persistent sin and rebellion. It reflects the severity of Judah's spiritual condition, where despite numerous warnings and opportunities to repent, they continued in their ways. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where the unpardonable sin is described as a blasphemy against the Holy Spirit (Mark 3:29). It serves as a warning of the dangers of hardening one's heart against God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Messengers of God
These are the prophets and leaders sent by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. They were often met with resistance and hostility.

2. The People of Judah
The inhabitants of the southern kingdom of Israel, who repeatedly turned away from God and His commandments, leading to their eventual downfall.

3. The Prophets
Individuals chosen by God to convey His warnings and guidance. They were often rejected and ridiculed by the people they were sent to help.

4. The Wrath of the LORD
This refers to God's righteous anger and judgment against persistent sin and rebellion. It ultimately led to the Babylonian exile.

5. The Babylonian Exile
The event where the people of Judah were conquered and taken captive by Babylon as a consequence of their disobedience and rejection of God's word.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Rejection
Ignoring God's messengers leads to severe consequences. Just as Judah faced exile, persistent disobedience in our lives can lead to spiritual desolation.

The Patience of God
God is patient and sends multiple warnings before judgment. We should be attentive to His voice and respond promptly to His guidance.

The Role of Prophets and Leaders
God uses individuals to speak truth into our lives. We should respect and heed the counsel of godly leaders and teachers.

The Danger of Hardening Hearts
Continual rejection of God's word can lead to a hardened heart, making it difficult to repent and return to Him.

The Urgency of Repentance
There is a point where it may be too late to turn back. We must seize the opportunity to repent and align ourselves with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the rejection of God's messengers in 2 Chronicles 36:16 compare to the rejection of Jesus in the New Testament?

2. What are some modern-day examples of how people might "mock" or "scoff" at God's word or His messengers?

3. Reflect on a time when you ignored wise counsel. What were the consequences, and how did you eventually respond?

4. How can we ensure that our hearts remain receptive to God's word and not become hardened?

5. In what ways can we support and encourage those who are called to be messengers of God in our communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 25:4-7
This passage highlights how God persistently sent prophets to warn the people, but they did not listen, leading to their judgment.

Matthew 23:37
Jesus laments over Jerusalem, echoing the rejection of prophets and messengers, showing a continuity of this pattern into the New Testament.

Hebrews 3:15
This verse warns believers not to harden their hearts as the Israelites did, emphasizing the importance of heeding God's voice.