“Strike a scoffer and the naïve may become shrewd,
But reprove one who has understanding and he will gain knowledge”
(Proverbs 19:25)
This proverb provides valuable information, especially regarding the “scoffer.” It seems that there are a significant number of self-appointed critics. Jesus certainly encountered plenty of scoffers when He attempted to teach (Luke 16:14) and especially when He was being crucified (Luke 23:35).
Who are these scoffers? Scoffers are those who like to make fun of others. They enjoy ridiculing. Nehemiah had his share of scoffers. When he was busy rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem, Tobiah the Ammonite took a look at that wall and said: “if a fox should jump on it, he would break their stone wall down!” (Nehemiah 6:3). Ouch! A fox typically weighs around 6 pounds. That criticism would certainly discourage the wall builders!
David noted that the blessed man, he who is God-approved, is going to avoid three types of people: the wicked, sinners, and – you guessed it – scoffers (Psalm 1:1). It just does no good for God’s people to be around these defiant, rebellious “better-than-you, smarter-than-you” anti-intellectuals.
Both Peter (2 Peter 3:3-4) and Jude (18) gave us a head’s up about the existence of mockers. They are going to make fun of the most fundamental Christian doctrines, like the resurrection, the return of Christ and judgment.
Christianity today has its share of critics. There are many who have become bold in mocking God, the Bible and Christians. They have their gestures, their head shakes in disgust and, of course, their derogatory words. They consider Christians the dumbest people on the planet, and have no problem telling them so.
When Jesus comes, dealing out retribution to those who have done these things (cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9), who will be mocking then?
Denny Petrillo