Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: The term "taunteth" is an archaic form of the verb "taunt," which means to reproach or challenge someone in a mocking or insulting manner. In the context of the Bible, taunting often involves derision or scorn directed towards individuals, groups, or even God Himself. This behavior is generally depicted as negative and contrary to the virtues of humility, kindness, and respect that Scripture advocates. Biblical Instances and Themes: While the specific term "taunteth" may not appear in modern translations, the concept of taunting is present throughout the Bible. It is often associated with the enemies of God and His people, who use taunts to express their disdain or to challenge the faith and resolve of believers. 1. Goliath's Taunt: One of the most famous instances of taunting in the Bible is found in the account of David and Goliath. Goliath, the Philistine giant, taunted the armies of Israel, challenging them to send a warrior to fight him. His taunts were not just against the soldiers but also against the God of Israel. David, a young shepherd boy, responded to Goliath's taunts with faith in God, saying, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied" (1 Samuel 17:45). 2. The Taunts of the Assyrians: In 2 Kings 18, the Assyrian king Sennacherib sent his field commander to taunt the people of Jerusalem during the reign of King Hezekiah. The commander mocked their reliance on God, questioning whether He could deliver them from the might of Assyria. This taunting was intended to demoralize the people and undermine their faith. However, Hezekiah sought the Lord in prayer, and God delivered Jerusalem from the Assyrian threat. 3. Mockery of Jesus: In the New Testament, Jesus Himself was subjected to taunts, particularly during His crucifixion. The soldiers, religious leaders, and even one of the criminals crucified alongside Him mocked Jesus, challenging Him to save Himself if He truly was the Messiah (Matthew 27:39-44). Despite these taunts, Jesus remained silent and fulfilled His mission of redemption through His sacrificial death. Moral and Spiritual Lessons: The Bible's portrayal of taunting serves as a reminder of the destructive power of words and the importance of maintaining faith in the face of ridicule. Believers are encouraged to respond to taunts with grace and trust in God, following the example of biblical figures like David and Hezekiah. The Scriptures also warn against engaging in taunting behavior, as it reflects a heart of pride and contempt, which is contrary to the character of Christ. Related Scriptures: · Proverbs 22:10 : "Drive out the mocker, and conflict will depart; even quarreling and insults will cease." · Psalm 1:1 : "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." · 1 Peter 3:9 : "Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing." Conclusion: The concept of taunting in the Bible highlights the challenges believers face from those who oppose or misunderstand their faith. It calls Christians to respond with integrity, relying on God's strength and wisdom to overcome the scorn of the world. Concordance Taunteth (4 Occurrences)Psalms 44:16 Psalms 57:3 Psalms 119:42 Proverbs 27:11 Thesaurus Taunteth (4 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Taunteth (4 Occurrences). Psalms 44:16 For the voice of him that reproacheth and blasphemeth, By reason of the enemy and the avenger. ... /t/taunteth.htm - 7k Taunters (1 Occurrence) Taunting (2 Occurrences) Revenge (13 Occurrences) Revilers (3 Occurrences) Reviles (5 Occurrences) Saves (19 Occurrences) Taunt (38 Occurrences) Sends (94 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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