Topical Bible: Reviling and Reproaching: Excludes from Heaven

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Topical Encyclopedia

Reviling and reproaching are serious offenses in the biblical context, often associated with verbal abuse, slander, and the denigration of others. These actions are considered sins that can have eternal consequences, including exclusion from the kingdom of heaven.

Biblical Definition and Context

Reviling refers to the act of speaking abusively or insultingly about someone. It is characterized by harsh and contemptuous language aimed at damaging a person's reputation or dignity. Reproaching, similarly, involves expressing disapproval or disappointment in a way that shames or disgraces another person.

Scriptural References

The Bible explicitly warns against reviling and reproaching, emphasizing their severity and the spiritual danger they pose. In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 , the Apostle Paul lists revilers among those who will not inherit the kingdom of God: "Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who submit to or perform homosexual acts, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor verbal abusers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God."

This passage underscores the gravity of reviling by placing it alongside other serious sins. The term "verbal abusers" in this context is often understood to include those who engage in reviling.

Moral and Spiritual Implications

Reviling and reproaching are not merely social offenses but are seen as violations of God's commandments regarding love and respect for others. Jesus taught the importance of love and kindness, even towards one's enemies, as seen in Matthew 5:44 : "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."

The act of reviling contradicts the Christian call to love one's neighbor and to speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). It reflects a heart that is not aligned with the values of the kingdom of God, which prioritizes humility, gentleness, and self-control.

Consequences and Warnings

The exclusion from heaven for those who persist in reviling is a sobering reminder of the need for repentance and transformation. The Bible calls believers to put away all forms of malice and slander, as seen in Ephesians 4:31 : "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice."

The call to repentance is echoed in 1 Peter 2:1 : "Rid yourselves, therefore, of all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind." This passage highlights the necessity of turning away from reviling and reproaching to live a life that is pleasing to God.

Encouragement for Believers

For those who have engaged in reviling or reproaching, the Bible offers hope through repentance and forgiveness. 1 John 1:9 assures believers: "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Believers are encouraged to seek the Holy Spirit's help in transforming their speech and attitudes, aligning them with the character of Christ. By doing so, they can avoid the spiritual peril associated with reviling and reproaching and instead inherit the promises of eternal life in the kingdom of God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Corinthians 6:10
Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortionists, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
Torrey's Topical Textbook