Try the latest Words of Life as Spotify Podcasts.

Tip: To see latest Words of Life, use Refine Search to list by Year. If using Mobile device, Refine Search may be located at end of page.

Through the ages the children of God, especially those whom God had entrusted with a special mission, had been scorned and scoffed at. This shows that ridicule is the lot of all God’s children in their struggle for spiritual maturity. Noah was undoubtedly scoffed at when he “foolishly” wanted to build a ship in a place where there was no water to be seen.

In dreams God told Joseph that he would one day be his brothers master. We are told: “The matter of his dreams caused them to hate him more.” Gen. 37: 5 & 8. There is no doubt that Joseph was ridiculed and called names, such as perhaps “Dream-King”.

David once cried out that he and his people were the target of ridicule and insults. He says: “Thou makest us a reproach to our neighbours, a scorn and a derision to them that are round about us.” Ps.44:14-19. He also says, “I was the song of the drunkards” Ps. 69:12; However, he adds, “Yet have we not forgotten thee, neither have we dealt falsely in thy covenant. Our heart is not turned back, neither have our steps declined from thy way.”

Jesus Christ, as the Son of God, had to suffer great humiliation and ridicule. They spat in His face and hit Him with their fists. Matt. 26:27. They represented, in caricature, His kingship, by putting on Him a scarlet robe and a crown of thorns on His head. Then they bowed the knee before Him and mocked Him. saying: “Hail King of the Jews!” Matt. 27:28-29. What was the result of this ridicule? Noah continued to build the ark, and God’s promise was fulfilled. Joseph did not deviate from God’s path, and his dreams came true. He was thereby a blessing to thousands of people.

Even though David was often ridiculed, and in spite of his sins he became the founder of the kingdom of Judea. Even today, many thousands of Jews remember him with respect and gratitude. Jesus did not react to ridicule. His behaviour was, and remained, dignified to the end, and it commanded respect. He even forgave His torturers. (Deacon Stephen did the same while he was being stoned) Acts 7:59. Jesus did not answer futile questions. Peter said that scoffers shall come who, among other things, will say: “Where is the promise of His coming?” 2 Peter 3:3-4. If world events are followed carefully, it becomes obvious that the ridicule of Christianity and the Christians is on the increase. Belief in God and in Jesus Christ is ever more frequently rejected. In the future this attitude could be stronger, and we should be prepared for it. Christians who profess their faith could sooner or later become the target of ridicule. In such a situation, let us prove ourselves to be true followers of Jesus Christ by being dignified in our behaviour; not reacting to insulting comments but keeping silent and only saying something when it is worthwhile, and to consider it an honour to be allowed to suffer with Jesus Christ, and to pray for all evil-doers, for God desires that all men be helped. 2 Peter 3:9. If those who ridicule do not change their ways, the words from Isaiah 29:20 will be applicable to them, “The scorner is consumed”. This is not God’s will; He wants to save everyone. However, every man will reap what he has sown. Consequently, those who reject God’s love and continue to do so will not enter into the Kingdom of God. Only when a man stops ridiculing will he be able to understand Jesus Christ’s mission and receive God’s mercy. In weakness you receive strength!