Topical Bible: Reviling and Reproaching: Jews

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Topical Encyclopedia

Reviling and reproaching are terms often associated with verbal abuse, scorn, or insult. In the context of the Bible, these actions are frequently addressed as behaviors contrary to the teachings of love, respect, and righteousness. The Jewish people, as God's chosen nation, have historically faced reviling and reproaching from various groups and individuals, both within the biblical narrative and throughout history.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Israelites often faced reproach from surrounding nations. This was sometimes a result of their own disobedience to God, leading to divine judgment and subsequent mockery by their enemies. For instance, in Psalm 44:13-14 , the psalmist laments, "You have made us a reproach to our neighbors, a scorn and derision to those around us. You have made us a byword among the nations, a laughingstock among the peoples."

The prophets frequently addressed the issue of reproach. Isaiah, for example, speaks of the restoration of Israel and the removal of their shame: "Instead of your shame, you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace, you will rejoice in your inheritance" (Isaiah 61:7). This promise of redemption underscores God's enduring covenant with His people despite periods of judgment and reproach.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, Jesus Himself faced reviling and reproach, particularly from the Jewish leaders who opposed His ministry. The Gospel of Matthew records instances where Jesus was mocked and insulted, such as during His trial and crucifixion (Matthew 27:39-44). Jesus' response to such treatment was one of forgiveness and fulfillment of prophecy, embodying the principle of turning the other cheek (Matthew 5:39).

The early Christian church, which included many Jewish believers, also encountered reviling. The Apostle Paul, a Jew himself, often faced opposition and insult from both Jews and Gentiles as he spread the Gospel. In 1 Corinthians 4:12-13 , Paul writes, "When we are vilified, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; when we are slandered, we answer gently."

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, reviling and reproaching are seen as manifestations of sin and human fallenness. The Bible consistently calls believers to a higher standard of conduct, emphasizing love, forgiveness, and blessing those who persecute (Romans 12:14). The Jewish people, as recipients of God's promises, are to be respected and honored, recognizing their unique role in salvation history.

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, reminds Gentile believers of their indebtedness to the Jewish people, stating, "If the Gentiles have shared in their spiritual blessings, they are obligated to minister to them with material blessings" (Romans 15:27). This underscores the importance of mutual respect and support within the body of Christ, transcending ethnic and cultural boundaries.

Historical Considerations

Throughout history, the Jewish people have faced significant reviling and reproach, often rooted in misunderstanding or rejection of their covenantal relationship with God. This has led to tragic events and periods of persecution, which stand in stark contrast to the biblical call for love and reconciliation.

In summary, the biblical narrative and subsequent Christian teaching call for an attitude of respect and love towards the Jewish people, recognizing their integral role in God's redemptive plan. Reviling and reproaching are to be replaced with blessing and honor, reflecting the character of Christ and the unity of all believers in Him.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 27:39,40
And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

John 8:48
Then answered the Jews, and said to him, Say we not well that you are a Samaritan, and have a devil?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Of Evil-Speaking in General.
... hinder the Christians at that time from reproaching the Jews and the ... cases with him,
is prohibited: for thus the words reproaching, reviling, railing, cursing ...
/.../barrow/sermons on evil-speaking by isaac barrow/of evil-speaking in general.htm

John xx. 10, 11
... And He named her name only, [2541] reproaching and blaming ... they had a truceless war
with the Jews, He continually ... if he be tired out by their reviling him and ...
/.../homilies on the gospel of st john and hebrews/homily lxxxvi john xx 10.htm

Psalm LXIX.
... was not understood, when the Jews said, What ... Why have "the reproaches of men reproaching
Thee fallen ... no one hath reviled Christ without reviling God: because ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm lxix.htm

Psalm LXXI.
... in the teeth of His disobedient people, reproaching them, because ... have not received
Law, all Jews and Christians ... power, but to have yielded to them reviling? ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm lxxi.htm

The Paralytic Let Down through the Roof.
... one of them checked him who was reviling the Lord ... For some envious and misanthropical
Jews were accustomed to ... this: for when he was reproaching the Corinthians ...
/.../chrysostom/on the priesthood/homily on the paralytic let.htm