Topical Bible: Reviling and Reproaching: Saints: Supported Under

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Topical Encyclopedia

Reviling and reproaching are forms of verbal abuse and scorn that believers may face due to their faith in Christ. Throughout Scripture, saints are depicted as enduring such treatment, yet they are assured of divine support and encouragement.

Biblical Context

Reviling refers to the act of speaking abusively or insultingly, often with the intent to demean or belittle. Reproaching involves expressing disapproval or disappointment, often in a way that is intended to shame or criticize. Both actions are common experiences for those who live godly lives in a world that often opposes the truth of the Gospel.

Old Testament Examples

In the Old Testament, the faithful often faced reproach from those who opposed God's ways. The psalmist frequently cried out to God for deliverance from such scorn. For instance, in Psalm 69:9, the psalmist laments, "For zeal for Your house has consumed me, and the reproaches of those who reproach You have fallen on me" . This verse highlights the connection between devotion to God and the experience of reproach from others.

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues this theme, with Jesus Himself warning His followers of the reviling they would face. In the Beatitudes, Jesus states, "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me" (Matthew 5:11). Here, Jesus not only acknowledges the reality of reviling but also pronounces a blessing on those who endure it for His sake.

The Apostle Paul also addresses this issue, encouraging believers to respond with grace and patience. 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" . This response reflects the transformative power of the Gospel, enabling believers to rise above reviling with a Christ-like attitude.

Divine Support and Encouragement

Scripture assures believers that they are not alone in facing reviling and reproach. The Holy Spirit provides comfort and strength, enabling them to stand firm. In 1 Peter 4:14, Peter encourages the saints, "If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you" . This verse underscores the presence of the Holy Spirit as a source of support and blessing amid trials.

Moreover, the promise of future vindication and reward serves as a powerful encouragement. Jesus assures His followers in Matthew 5:12, "Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you" . This eternal perspective helps believers to endure present hardships with hope and joy.

Practical Implications

Believers are called to respond to reviling and reproach with love and forgiveness, following the example of Christ. In Romans 12:14, Paul exhorts, "Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse" . This command challenges believers to rise above natural inclinations and to reflect the character of Christ in their interactions with others.

In summary, while reviling and reproaching are inevitable experiences for the saints, Scripture provides assurance of divine support and the promise of eternal reward. Believers are encouraged to respond with grace, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and to maintain an eternal perspective that transcends present suffering.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Corinthians 12:10
Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
Torrey's Topical Textbook