Topical Bible: Scorning and Mocking: Punishment For

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Scorning and mocking are behaviors that the Bible addresses with serious admonitions and warnings. These actions are often associated with pride, arrogance, and a rejection of wisdom and divine instruction. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and teachings that highlight the consequences of such behavior.

Old Testament Insights

In the Old Testament, scorning and mocking are frequently linked to foolishness and a lack of reverence for God. Proverbs 19:29 states, "Judgments are prepared for mockers, and beatings for the backs of fools." This verse underscores the idea that mockers are subject to divine judgment and correction. The book of Proverbs repeatedly contrasts the wise and the foolish, with mockers often falling into the latter category due to their disdain for wisdom and instruction (Proverbs 9:7-8).

The account of Elisha and the mocking youths in 2 Kings 2:23-24 serves as a vivid illustration of the consequences of mocking a prophet of God. As Elisha traveled to Bethel, a group of boys jeered at him, saying, "Go up, you baldhead!" In response, Elisha called down a curse in the name of the LORD, and two bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the boys. This incident highlights the seriousness with which God regards the mocking of His servants.

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues to address the issue of mocking, particularly in the context of the rejection of Christ and His message. During the Passion of Christ, Jesus Himself was subjected to severe mocking and scorn by the Roman soldiers and others (Matthew 27:29-31). Despite this, Jesus exemplified humility and forgiveness, praying for His persecutors even as they mocked Him (Luke 23:34).

The Apostle Paul warns against mocking God in Galatians 6:7 , stating, "Do not be deceived: God is not to be mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return." This principle of sowing and reaping serves as a warning that those who mock God or His principles will ultimately face consequences for their actions.

Eschatological Implications

In eschatological terms, the Bible warns that mockers will face judgment in the last days. 2 Peter 3:3-4 predicts that "in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires." These scoffers will question the promise of Christ's return, but Peter assures believers that God's judgment is certain and will come in due time.

Practical Application

For believers, the biblical teachings on scorning and mocking serve as a call to humility and reverence. Christians are encouraged to avoid such behaviors and instead pursue wisdom, understanding, and respect for God and His Word. The Bible encourages believers to respond to mockery with patience and love, following the example of Christ, who endured scorn yet remained steadfast in His mission.

In summary, the Bible presents scorning and mocking as behaviors that lead to divine judgment and correction. Through both Old and New Testament teachings, believers are reminded of the importance of humility, respect, and the pursuit of wisdom in their walk with God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 36:17
Therefore he brought on them the king of the Chaldees, who slew their young men with the sword in the house of their sanctuary, and had no compassion on young man or maiden, old man, or him that stooped for age: he gave them all into his hand.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 19:29
Judgments are prepared for scorners, and stripes for the back of fools.
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Isaiah 29:20
For the terrible one is brought to nothing, and the scorner is consumed, and all that watch for iniquity are cut off:
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Lamentations 3:64-66
Render to them a recompense, O LORD, according to the work of their hands.
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Library

A Homily Delivered on the Saturday Before the Second Sunday in ...
... of his confession, rejected their mocking insults and ... not be ashamed of the punishment
of Christ ... mysteries, despising things mundane and scorning things earthly ...
/.../leo/writings of leo the great/sermon li a homily delivered.htm

A Few Sighs from Hell;
... long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? And the scorners delight
in their scorning? And fools hate knowledge?' 'Turn you at ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a few sighs from hell.htm

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... the "lords of the sands" grew too insolent, the Pharaoh sent a column of light troops
against them, and inflicted on them such a severe punishment, that the ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm