Topical Bible: Scorning and Mocking: Woe Denounced Against

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Scorning and mocking are behaviors that the Bible consistently condemns, associating them with foolishness, pride, and a rejection of divine wisdom. Throughout Scripture, those who engage in such actions are warned of impending judgment and woe.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, scorning and mocking are often linked with the rejection of God's wisdom and commandments. Proverbs 1:22 states, "How long, O simple ones, will you love your simple ways? How long will scoffers delight in their scorn and fools hate knowledge?" This verse highlights the disdain that scoffers have for wisdom, aligning them with foolishness and ignorance.

The Psalms also address the fate of mockers. Psalm 1:1 declares, "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers." Here, the psalmist contrasts the blessedness of the righteous with the company of mockers, implying that their path leads away from God's favor.

Isaiah 28:22 warns, "So now, do not mock, or your shackles will be made stronger; for I have heard a decree of destruction from the Lord GOD of Hosts against the whole land." This passage underscores the serious consequences of mocking, as it invites divine judgment and destruction.

New Testament Context

The New Testament continues to denounce scorning and mocking, particularly in the context of rejecting Christ and His message. In the Gospels, Jesus Himself was subjected to mockery, especially during His trial and crucifixion. Matthew 27:29 recounts, "And they twisted together a crown of thorns, set it on His head, and put a staff in His right hand. Then they knelt down before Him and mocked Him, saying, 'Hail, King of the Jews!'"

The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, warns against the dangers of mockery. Galatians 6:7 states, "Do not be deceived: God is not to be mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return." This verse serves as a stern reminder that mocking God or His principles will ultimately lead to divine retribution.

Prophetic Warnings and Woes

The prophetic books of the Bible frequently pronounce woes upon those who scorn and mock. In the book of Habakkuk, the prophet declares woe upon those who build their fortunes through unjust means, often accompanied by mockery and scorn. Habakkuk 2:6 states, "Will not all of these take up a taunt against him, speaking with mockery and derision: 'Woe to him who amasses what is not his—how long will it be?—and loads himself with stolen goods!'"

Similarly, in the book of Zephaniah, the prophet warns of the coming judgment upon those who mock and scorn. Zephaniah 2:15 describes the downfall of a proud city, "This carefree city that dwells securely, that thinks to herself: 'I am it, and there is none besides me.' What a ruin she has become, a resting place for beasts. Everyone who passes by her hisses and shakes his fist."

Conclusion

The biblical narrative consistently portrays scorning and mocking as behaviors that lead to woe and judgment. Those who engage in such actions are often depicted as rejecting divine wisdom and aligning themselves with folly and pride. The Scriptures warn that such attitudes invite God's displeasure and ultimately result in their downfall.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 5:18,19
Woe to them that draw iniquity with cords of vanity, and sin as it were with a cart rope:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

A Few Sighs from Hell;
... And the scorners delight in their scorning? ... were loosed, and his knees smote one
against another.' And ... the presence of God into everlasting woe and distress. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a few sighs from hell.htm