Topical Encyclopedia In the Bible, ridicule is often depicted as a tool used by the ungodly to mock, scorn, or belittle the faithful and the divine. It is an expression of contempt or derision, frequently aimed at undermining the faith and confidence of believers. The act of ridiculing is portrayed as a characteristic of those who oppose God's will and His people.Old Testament Instances One of the earliest examples of ridicule in the Bible is found in the account of Noah. As Noah built the ark in obedience to God's command, he was likely subjected to mockery by those who did not believe in the impending flood. Although the Bible does not explicitly describe the ridicule, the context suggests that Noah's faith and actions were not taken seriously by his contemporaries. In 2 Kings 2:23-24, the prophet Elisha is ridiculed by a group of youths who mock him, saying, "Go up, you baldhead!" This incident highlights the disrespect and irreverence shown towards God's prophets. Elisha's response, calling down a curse in the name of the Lord, results in a severe consequence for the mockers, demonstrating that ridicule against God's anointed is not taken lightly. Nehemiah faced ridicule when he led the effort to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. In Nehemiah 4:1-3, Sanballat and Tobiah mocked the Jews, questioning their ability to complete the task. Despite the ridicule, Nehemiah and the people persevered, relying on God's strength and protection to accomplish their mission. New Testament Instances In the New Testament, Jesus Himself was subjected to ridicule, particularly during His crucifixion. The soldiers, religious leaders, and even one of the criminals crucified alongside Him mocked Jesus, challenging His identity and power. In Luke 23:35-37, the rulers sneered, "He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ of God, the Chosen One." This ridicule was a fulfillment of prophecy and a testament to the suffering Jesus endured for humanity's redemption. The apostles also faced ridicule as they spread the Gospel. In Acts 2:13, during the event of Pentecost, some bystanders mocked the disciples, accusing them of being drunk. Despite the ridicule, Peter boldly proclaimed the truth of the Gospel, leading to the conversion of many. Theological Implications Ridicule in the Bible often serves to test the faith and resolve of God's people. It is a reminder of the opposition believers may face in a world that often rejects divine truth. The faithful are encouraged to respond to ridicule with perseverance and trust in God, as exemplified by biblical figures like Nehemiah and the apostles. Proverbs 3:34 states, "He mocks the mockers but gives grace to the humble." This verse underscores the biblical principle that God opposes the proud and scornful but extends His favor to those who remain humble and faithful. Believers are called to endure ridicule with patience, knowing that God is their ultimate vindicator. Practical Application Christians today may encounter ridicule for their beliefs and values. The biblical response to such mockery is not retaliation but steadfastness in faith and reliance on God's strength. As Jesus taught in Matthew 5:11-12, "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven." In facing ridicule, believers are encouraged to follow the example of Christ, who, "when He was reviled, did not revile in return" (1 Peter 2:23). Instead, they are to respond with love, grace, and the assurance that their faithfulness will be rewarded by God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Ridicule.Library The Emperor Valens is Ridiculed by the People on Account of the ... But Since He Has Ridiculed at Great Length the Doctrine of the ... The Emperor Preparing an Expedition against the Persians, Arrives ... The Northern Iron and the Steel Of those who Maintain that they Worship the Gods not for the Sake ... The Converted Infidel Fourth Division. Endurance of the World's Censure. The Ecclesiastical History of Scholasticus "Come Thou and all Thy House into the Ark. " Thesaurus Ridiculed (12 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (imp. & pp) of Ridicule. Multi-Version Concordance Ridiculed (12 Occurrences). Mark 5:40 They ridiculed him. ... /r/ridiculed.htm - 10k Mocked (40 Occurrences) Despised (96 Occurrences) Ridicule (14 Occurrences) Shaken (62 Occurrences) Geshem (5 Occurrences) Wags (2 Occurrences) Tosses (3 Occurrences) Tobiah (14 Occurrences) Ridiculing (2 Occurrences) Resources Is the Bible a fairy tale? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the Parable of the Unjust Steward (Luke 16:1-13)? | GotQuestions.org Who was Jezebel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Ridiculed: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Ridiculed (12 Occurrences)Mark 5:40 Luke 23:11 Judges 9:38 2 Kings 19:21 2 Chronicles 30:10 Nehemiah 2:19 Nehemiah 4:1 Isaiah 37:22 Jeremiah 20:7 Ezekiel 23:32 Ezekiel 36:4 Hosea 7:16 Subtopics Related Terms |
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