In the context of biblical teachings, the terms "reviling" and "reproaching" are often associated with the treatment of individuals deemed as malefactors, or wrongdoers. These concepts are explored throughout Scripture, highlighting both the human tendency to judge and the divine call to respond with grace and truth.

Reviling and Reproaching

Reviling refers to the act of speaking abusively or insultingly about someone. It is a form of verbal assault that seeks to demean or belittle another person. Reproaching, similarly, involves expressing disapproval or disappointment, often in a way that shames or criticizes the individual. Both actions are contrary to the biblical exhortation to love one's neighbor and to speak with kindness and truth.

The Bible provides numerous admonitions against reviling. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul warns believers against such behavior, emphasizing the importance of a transformed life that reflects Christ's love. In 1 Corinthians 6:10 , Paul lists revilers among those who will not inherit the kingdom of God, underscoring the seriousness of this sin. Furthermore, in 1 Peter 3:9 , believers are instructed, "Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing."

Malefactor

The term "malefactor" is used in the Bible to describe someone who commits a crime or does evil. In the Gospels, Jesus Himself was labeled a malefactor by those who sought His crucifixion. In Luke 23:32-33 , it is recorded, "Two others, who were criminals, were also led away to be executed with Jesus. When they came to the place called The Skull, they crucified Him there, along with the criminals, one on His right and the other on His left." Despite being innocent, Jesus was treated as a malefactor, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 53:12 , "He was numbered with the transgressors."

The treatment of Jesus as a malefactor serves as a profound example of the world's misunderstanding and misjudgment of righteousness. It also highlights the call for believers to endure reviling and reproach for the sake of Christ, as seen in Hebrews 13:13 : "Therefore let us go to Him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace He bore."

Biblical Response to Reviling and Reproaching

Scripture calls believers to respond to reviling and reproaching with a spirit of humility and forgiveness. Jesus, during His crucifixion, exemplified this response by praying for His persecutors, saying, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). This act of grace serves as a model for Christians, who are encouraged to bless those who persecute them and to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:14, 21).

The teachings of Jesus and the apostles emphasize that while believers may face reviling and reproach, they are to maintain their integrity and witness by responding with love and patience. In doing so, they reflect the character of Christ and bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel.Luke 23:39
And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If you be Christ, save yourself and us.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Of Evil-Speaking in General.
... cases with him, is prohibited: for thus the words reproaching, reviling, railing,
cursing ... And when he sentenced that great malefactor, the cause of so much ...
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What is a reviler in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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Reviling: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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