Topical Bible: Afflictions and Adversities: Mocking At

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Mocking, as a form of affliction and adversity, is a recurring theme in the Bible, often directed at the righteous by the wicked. It is an expression of scorn and derision, intended to belittle and humiliate. The Bible provides numerous examples of mocking, illustrating both its prevalence and the spiritual response expected from believers.

Old Testament Instances

Mocking is evident in the Old Testament, where it is often directed at God's prophets and servants. In 2 Kings 2:23-24, the prophet Elisha is mocked by a group of youths who jeer at him, saying, "Go up, you baldhead!" This incident underscores the disrespect shown towards God's messengers and the serious consequences that can follow such actions, as the youths are subsequently mauled by bears.

The Psalms frequently address the theme of mocking, portraying it as a tool of the wicked against the righteous. Psalm 22:7-8 describes the suffering of the psalmist, "All who see me mock me; they sneer and shake their heads: 'He trusts in the LORD; let the LORD deliver him; let the LORD rescue him, since He delights in him.'" This passage prophetically points to the mocking of Christ on the cross, highlighting the deep connection between the sufferings of the psalmist and the ultimate suffering of the Messiah.

New Testament Examples

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ Himself is the target of mockery, particularly during His passion. The Gospels recount how Roman soldiers mocked Jesus, dressing Him in a purple robe and placing a crown of thorns on His head, sarcastically hailing Him as "King of the Jews" (Mark 15:17-20). This mockery was not only a personal affront but also a rejection of His divine kingship.

The mocking of Jesus continued as He hung on the cross. Matthew 27:41-43 records, "In the same way, the chief priests, scribes, and elders mocked Him, saying, 'He saved others, but He cannot save Himself! He is the King of Israel; let Him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in Him.'" This derision fulfilled the prophetic words of Psalm 22 and demonstrated the hardness of heart of those who refused to recognize Jesus as the Messiah.

Spiritual Response to Mocking

The Bible encourages believers to respond to mocking with patience and trust in God. Jesus, in His Sermon on the Mount, taught, "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me" (Matthew 5:11). This teaching emphasizes the blessedness of enduring mockery for the sake of righteousness and the promise of heavenly reward.

The Apostle Paul also addresses the issue of mockery, urging believers to stand firm in their faith despite ridicule. In Galatians 6:7 , he writes, "Do not be deceived: God is not to be mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return." This assurance reminds Christians that God is just and will ultimately vindicate His people.

Conclusion

Mocking, as a form of affliction, is a test of faith and character for believers. The Bible provides both examples of mockery and guidance on how to endure it with grace and steadfastness. By looking to the example of Christ and the teachings of Scripture, Christians are encouraged to respond to mockery with patience, trusting in God's justice and the promise of eternal reward.

Nave's Topical Index

Job 12:5
He that is ready to slip with his feet is as a lamp despised in the thought of him that is at ease.
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Proverbs 17:5
Whoever mocks the poor reproaches his Maker: and he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished.
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Library

Christian Behavior
... through so many trials, afflictions, and adversities, even because ... of those filthy
passions that are thy afflictions. ... As, (1.) Ishmael, for but mocking at one ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/christian behavior.htm

But Whilst the King Has not that Most Blessed Light...
... shouts of imprecation, and mocking blasphemy; but ... to-day's sorrows and adversities,"
awful, agonizing ... shrubs of endurance, afflictions, necessities, distresses ...
/.../jennings/old groans and new songs/chapter vii but whilst the.htm

part ii
... The work of cleansing the heart is difficult, because it is connected with great
privations and afflictions; and, therefore, the reward is great. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm