In the Christian tradition, reviling and reproaching are understood as acts of verbal abuse, insult, or scorn directed towards individuals, often with the intent to demean or belittle. The Bible addresses these behaviors and provides guidance on how believers, particularly the saints, are to respond when faced with such hostility.

The teachings of Jesus Christ and the apostles emphasize a response that is countercultural and rooted in love and grace. Instead of retaliating with similar hostility, Christians are called to bless those who revile and reproach them. This principle is deeply embedded in the New Testament and reflects the transformative power of the Gospel.

Biblical Foundation

1. Jesus' Teaching on Blessing Enemies: In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus instructs His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them. This teaching is foundational for understanding the Christian response to reviling. Jesus states, "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). This radical love is a hallmark of Christian conduct.

2. Apostolic Instruction: The Apostle Paul reiterates this teaching in his epistles. In Romans 12:14, Paul writes, "Bless those who persecute you. Bless and do not curse" . This directive underscores the importance of responding to hostility with a spirit of blessing rather than vengeance.

3. Peter's Exhortation: The Apostle Peter also addresses this issue, encouraging believers to respond to evil with good. In 1 Peter 3:9, he advises, "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" . Peter highlights that such behavior is part of the Christian calling and is linked to receiving God's blessings.

Examples from Scripture

1. Jesus' Example: Jesus Himself exemplified this teaching during His crucifixion. Despite being reviled and mocked, He prayed for His persecutors, saying, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). His response is the ultimate model for believers.

2. Stephen's Martyrdom: The account of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, provides a powerful example of returning blessings for reviling. As he was being stoned, Stephen prayed for his attackers, saying, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (Acts 7:60). His response reflects the grace and forgiveness that characterize the Christian faith.

Theological Implications

The call to bless those who revile and reproach is rooted in the understanding of God's grace and mercy. Christians are reminded that they, too, were once enemies of God but have received forgiveness and reconciliation through Christ. This awareness compels believers to extend the same grace to others, even in the face of hostility.

Furthermore, the practice of blessing those who revile is a testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel. It serves as a witness to the world of the love and forgiveness that are central to the Christian message. By responding with blessings, believers demonstrate the reality of their faith and the presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

In summary, the biblical response to reviling and reproaching is one of blessing and love. This response is not only a command but also a reflection of the character of Christ, who calls His followers to live in a manner that glorifies God and advances His kingdom.1 Corinthians 4:12
And labor, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Peter 3:9
Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that you are thereunto called, that you should inherit a blessing.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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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