The promises of God are a central theme throughout the Bible, offering hope, assurance, and guidance to believers. However, Scripture also acknowledges the presence of scoffers—those who mock or dismiss these divine promises. This entry explores the biblical perspective on scoffers and their attitude towards God's promises.

Biblical References to Scoffers

The Bible frequently addresses the issue of scoffers, particularly in the context of the end times and the fulfillment of God's promises. In 2 Peter 3:3-4 , the apostle Peter warns, "Most importantly, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. 'Where is the promise of His coming?' they will ask. 'Ever since our fathers fell asleep, everything continues as it has from the beginning of creation.'"

This passage highlights the skepticism and disbelief that characterize scoffers, who question the reliability and imminence of God's promises, particularly the promise of Christ's return. Their attitude is rooted in a desire to follow their own sinful inclinations rather than submit to divine authority.

Characteristics of Scoffers

Scoffers are often depicted in Scripture as individuals who reject wisdom and instruction. 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 underscores the disdain scoffers have for divine wisdom and their preference for mocking what they do not understand or accept.

Additionally, scoffers are portrayed as arrogant and self-assured, often placing their trust in human reasoning rather than in God's promises. Proverbs 21:24 describes them as "Proud, Arrogant, and Mocker are his names, one who acts with excessive pride."

The Consequences of Scoffing

The Bible warns of the consequences that await those who scoff at God's promises. In Proverbs 19:29 , it is written, "Judgments are prepared for mockers, and beatings for the backs of fools." This verse serves as a sobering reminder that scoffing is not without repercussions. The rejection of God's promises and the refusal to heed His warnings lead to judgment and discipline.

Furthermore, scoffers are often contrasted with the righteous, who trust in God's promises and live according to His Word. 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." This distinction emphasizes the blessedness of those who avoid the company and influence of scoffers, choosing instead to delight in the law of the Lord.

The Call to Believers

Believers are called to remain steadfast in their faith, even in the face of scoffing and ridicule. Jude 1:17-18 exhorts, "But you, beloved, remember what was foretold by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ when they said to you, 'In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow after their own ungodly desires.'" This reminder encourages Christians to hold fast to the teachings of the apostles and to be vigilant against the influence of scoffers.

In response to scoffing, believers are encouraged to continue proclaiming the truth of God's promises with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15 advises, "But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect."

In summary, while scoffers may despise and dismiss the promises of God, Scripture assures believers of the certainty and faithfulness of these promises. The Bible calls Christians to remain unwavering in their faith, to avoid the influence of scoffers, and to continue sharing the hope found in God's Word.2 Peter 3:3,4
Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Epistle of Saint Jude.
... This example Jude sets forth for these scoffers who blame ... Still this is true, that
God, from the beginning of ... His word known (the word that promises His favor ...
/.../the epistle of saint jude.htm

A Description of Heart-Purity
... He that believes not God's promises will never love him. ... There shall come in the
last days scoffers' (Luke 16:14; 2 ... Are we not commanded to be perfect as God is ...
/.../16 a description of heart-purity.htm

Christian Morals. Part ii.
... to ensue from any promises of antecedencies. ... experience, self-reflexions, and God's
mercies, make ... were envious, malicious, contemners, scoffers, censurers, and ...
//christianbookshelf.org/browne/christian morals/christian morals part ii.htm

The Conversion of Zaccheus
... Jesus was, he did not value what scoffers said of ... If ever God gives you true faith,
you will never ... he confesses his injustice before men, and promises to make ...
/.../whitefield/selected sermons of george whitefield/the conversion of zaccheus.htm

A Penitent Heart, the Best New Year's Gift
... and in breaking both his resolutions and his promises, as fast ... to die adulterers,
to die swearers and scoffers, &c ... now be spent wholly in the ways of God; and O ...
/.../whitefield/selected sermons of george whitefield/a penitent heart the best.htm

The Second Epistle of St. Peter
... 8. The scoffers wilfully ignored one fact; believers were apt to ... of the delay offered
by the writer; God is really ... If He seems slow with what he promises, it is ...
/.../moffat/the general epistles james peter and judas/the second epistle of st.htm

Difficulties and Objections
... promise" in the singular number, not "promises." What promise ... Where, in all Scripture,
has God ever promised to ... come in the last days scoffers, walking after ...
/.../pink/the sovereignty of god/chapter eleven difficulties and objections.htm

A Few Sighs from Hell;
... often wooed with gracious entreaties, glorious promises, and fresh ... things that are
despised, hath God chosen (1 ... that are learned should not despise those that ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a few sighs from hell.htm

part ii
... Do you live as the children of God ought to live? ... Do you despise earthly things,
and do you aspire with your whole heart after heavenly things? ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to ...
... rebuking of them, as if they had received a dispensation from God to dishonour ... form
of godliness, hate the life and power thereof, yea, they despise them that ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a holy life the beauty.htm

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