Introduction

Human mockery, as depicted in the Bible, often serves as a tool of scorn and derision, aimed at undermining the dignity and faith of individuals. However, within the divine narrative, such mockery is frequently transformed into a means of fulfilling God's sovereign purposes. This entry explores the instances of human mockery in the Scriptures and how they align with God's overarching plan.

Old Testament Instances

1. Noah: In Genesis, Noah faced ridicule from those around him as he built the ark in obedience to God's command. Despite the mockery, Noah's faithfulness led to the preservation of humanity and the animal kingdom. The narrative underscores the theme that human scorn cannot thwart divine intention. As stated in Genesis 6:22, "So Noah did everything precisely as God had commanded him."

2. Elisha: In 2 Kings 2:23-24, the prophet Elisha was mocked by a group of youths who jeered, "Go up, you baldhead!" This incident resulted in divine retribution, as two bears emerged and mauled forty-two of the youths. This account illustrates that mockery against God's anointed can invoke divine justice, reinforcing the sanctity of God's messengers.

3. Nehemiah: During the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, Nehemiah and his workers faced mockery and opposition from figures like Sanballat and Tobiah. Nehemiah 4:1-3 records their derision, yet Nehemiah's steadfastness and prayerful reliance on God led to the successful completion of the wall, demonstrating that divine purpose prevails over human scorn.

New Testament Instances

1. Jesus Christ: The most profound example of human mockery is found in the life and crucifixion of Jesus Christ. He was mocked by soldiers, religious leaders, and passersby. Matthew 27:29-31 describes how they placed a crown of thorns on His head and mocked Him, saying, "Hail, King of the Jews!" Despite this, the crucifixion was central to God's redemptive plan, as foretold in Isaiah 53:3, "He was despised and rejected by men."

2. Apostle Paul: In Acts 17:32, Paul faced mockery from the Athenians when he preached about the resurrection of the dead. Yet, this did not deter him from his mission, and some were converted, illustrating that even in the face of ridicule, the gospel's power remains undiminished.

Theological Implications

Human mockery in the biblical narrative often serves as a backdrop against which God's purposes are revealed and accomplished. It highlights the contrast between human folly and divine wisdom. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:27, "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong."

Conclusion

The biblical accounts of human mockery and divine purpose reveal a consistent theme: God's plans are not thwarted by human derision. Instead, mockery often becomes a catalyst for the unfolding of His divine will, demonstrating His sovereignty and the ultimate triumph of His purposes.