Reviling and reproaching are actions that involve speaking abusively or contemptuously towards others, often with the intent to insult or demean. In the biblical context, these behaviors are considered serious offenses against both God and fellow human beings. The Scriptures provide clear guidance on the consequences of such actions, emphasizing the moral and spiritual implications of reviling and reproaching.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, reviling is often associated with rebellion against God and His appointed leaders. The Israelites were warned against speaking against God and His prophets. For instance, in Numbers 12:1-10, Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses, and as a result, Miriam was struck with leprosy as a punishment for her actions. This incident underscores the seriousness with which God views reviling His chosen servants.

Leviticus 24:10-16 provides another example where a man blasphemed the Name of the Lord and cursed. The community was instructed to stone him to death, illustrating the severe consequences of reviling God. This passage highlights the gravity of speaking contemptuously against the divine.

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues to address the issue of reviling, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. In Matthew 5:22, Jesus warns that anyone who insults their brother will be subject to judgment, indicating that reviling others is not in line with the righteousness expected of His followers.

The apostle Paul also addresses the issue in his letters. In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Paul lists revilers among those who will not inherit the kingdom of God, placing reviling alongside other serious sins. This passage serves as a stern warning to believers about the spiritual consequences of engaging in such behavior.

Furthermore, 1 Peter 3:9 advises believers not to repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but rather to bless others. This teaching emphasizes the call to a higher standard of conduct, reflecting the character of Christ even in the face of provocation.

Divine Judgment and Consequences

The Bible consistently portrays reviling and reproaching as actions that invite divine judgment. In Romans 1:28-32, Paul describes a society that has turned away from God, listing revilers among those who are given over to a depraved mind. This passage suggests that persistent reviling is indicative of a deeper spiritual rebellion and separation from God.

Revelation 21:8 further underscores the eternal consequences of such behavior, listing the "cowardly, unbelieving, vile, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars" as those who will face the second death in the lake of fire. While reviling is not explicitly mentioned, the association with other grievous sins implies its serious nature and the ultimate punishment for unrepentant revilers.

Call to Repentance and Restoration

Despite the severe warnings, the Bible also offers hope for those who have engaged in reviling and reproaching. Through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, individuals can receive forgiveness and be restored to a right relationship with God. The transformative power of the Holy Spirit enables believers to overcome sinful behaviors and to live in a manner that honors God and respects others.

In summary, the biblical perspective on reviling and reproaching is clear: these actions are serious offenses that carry significant consequences. Believers are called to avoid such behavior and to pursue a life of holiness, reflecting the love and grace of God in their interactions with others.Zephaniah 2:8,9
I have heard the reproach of Moab, and the revilings of the children of Ammon, whereby they have reproached my people, and magnified themselves against their border.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 5:22
But I say to you, That whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whoever shall say, You fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Of Evil-Speaking in General.
... cases with him, is prohibited: for thus the words reproaching, reviling, railing,
cursing ... The same spirit which enabled him to inflict a sore punishment on that ...
/.../barrow/sermons on evil-speaking by isaac barrow/of evil-speaking in general.htm

Psalm LXIX.
... Why have "the reproaches of men reproaching Thee fallen upon Me ... Against Me were reviling
they that ... because of their enemies, either for their punishment, or for ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm lxix.htm

The Paralytic Let Down through the Roof.
... if not also by the fear of punishment we may ... one of them checked him who was reviling
the Lord. ... demonstrated this: for when he was reproaching the Corinthians ...
/.../chrysostom/on the priesthood/homily on the paralytic let.htm

Psalm LXXI.
... the teeth of His disobedient people, reproaching them, because ... down, but patience
amid men reviling, but that ... There was owing punishment, there hath been paid ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm lxxi.htm

What is a reviler in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Why did Jesus say “Father, forgive them” on the cross? | GotQuestions.org

Reviling: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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