Meaning of Scoffer in the Bible A Biblical Perspective on Mockery and RejectionIn the Bible, the term ‘scoffer’ refers to someone who mocks, ridicules, or openly rejects the wisdom of God. The Bible speaks of scoffers in both the Old and New Testaments, offering important insights into their character and behavior. A scoffer is often portrayed as someone who disregards God’s authority, mocks righteousness, and lives in defiance of the teachings found in Scripture.
This topic explores the meaning of a scoffer in the Bible, the biblical warnings about their behavior, and the consequences of rejecting wisdom and truth. Through understanding what it means to be a scoffer, we can better grasp the importance of humility, wisdom, and reverence in our own relationship with God.
What Does the Bible Say About Scoffers?
1. The Definition of a Scoffer
A scoffer is defined in the Bible as someone who ridicules or mocks others, especially those who follow God. The term is often associated with individuals who reject divine wisdom, mock God’s commandments, or belittle the teachings of Scripture. In contrast to the humble and wise, a scoffer is proud, arrogant, and resistant to correction.
In Proverbs 149, the Bible states, ‘Fools mock at making amends for sin, but goodwill is found among the upright.’ This verse highlights that scoffers are unwilling to repent for their wrongdoings and show no desire for reconciliation with God.
2. The Scoffer’s Relationship with Wisdom
The Bible frequently contrasts scoffers with the wise and the humble. In Proverbs 122, it says, ‘How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge?’ This verse points out that scoffers take pleasure in their mockery and show a deep disdain for wisdom. Wisdom, in the biblical sense, is the knowledge and understanding that come from God, and those who scoff are often depicted as rejecting it.
Proverbs 2124 also highlights the scoffer’s pride and arrogance ‘The proud and arrogant person ‘Mocker’ is his name behaves with insolent fury.’ This attitude of defiance is central to the scoffer’s identity, as they mock both the people who follow God and the wisdom that comes from Him.
Characteristics of a Scoffer in the Bible
1. Pride and Arrogance
A primary characteristic of a scoffer is pride. In the Bible, scoffers are often shown as arrogant individuals who believe they are above correction or instruction. Their mockery and rejection of wisdom are rooted in their belief that they do not need guidance, especially from God. This arrogance makes them resistant to the truth and difficult to teach.
Proverbs 334 tells us, ‘He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed.’ This contrasts the scoffer’s pride with the humility that is valued in the Bible. Humility is seen as a key virtue for those who seek God’s wisdom and guidance.
2. Resistance to Wisdom and Instruction
Scoffers are marked by their resistance to wisdom. They not only mock God’s teachings but also resist correction and reproof. In Proverbs 97-8, it says, ‘Whoever corrects a mocker invites insults; whoever rebukes the wicked incurs abuse. Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you.’ This passage shows that scoffers do not respond well to instruction or correction, making it difficult to help them understand the truth.
In the New Testament, Jesus also encountered many scoffers, particularly from the religious leaders of His time. They mocked His teachings, doubted His authority, and ridiculed His mission to bring salvation to the world.
3. Foolishness and Immorality
The Bible frequently associates scoffers with foolishness and immorality. They are often depicted as individuals who live in rebellion against God’s commandments, choosing instead to pursue sinful pleasures and selfish desires. Their mockery and ridicule of righteous living are an extension of their own corrupt hearts.
Psalm 11 says, ‘Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers.’ This verse emphasizes that scoffers are part of a larger group of sinners, and their mockery is an expression of their sinful nature.
The Consequences of Being a Scoffer
1. Spiritual Blindness and Hardness of Heart
The Bible warns that scoffing leads to spiritual blindness and a hardened heart. By rejecting wisdom and mocking those who follow God, scoffers become increasingly resistant to God’s truth. Over time, this rejection of wisdom leads to a greater inability to see the need for repentance and salvation.
Romans 121-22 provides insight into the spiritual consequences of rejecting God ‘For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools.’ This passage speaks to the process of spiritual blindness that can result from a life of mocking God and rejecting His wisdom.
2. Judgment and Destruction
The Bible also warns that scoffers will ultimately face judgment for their behavior. Their mocking and rejection of wisdom will lead to their downfall. In Proverbs 1929, it says, ‘Penalties are prepared for mockers, and beatings for the backs of fools.’ This verse emphasizes that scoffing will not go unpunished, and those who live in defiance of God’s truth will eventually face the consequences.
In the New Testament, 2 Peter 33-4 warns that in the last days, scoffers will come, questioning the return of Christ ‘Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, ‘Where is this ‘coming’ he promised? Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation.” These scoffers will ultimately face God’s judgment for their rejection of His truth and the promises He has made.
3. Separation from God
Finally, the Bible teaches that those who live as scoffers will be separated from God. In Psalm 16, it says, ‘For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.’ The scoffer’s life of mockery and rejection of God’s truth ultimately leads to eternal separation from God, a fate reserved for those who refuse to accept His wisdom and salvation.
How Should Christians Respond to Scoffers?
1. Respond with Wisdom and Grace
While the Bible warns about the dangers of scoffing, Christians are also called to respond to scoffers with wisdom and grace. Instead of retaliating with anger or mockery, believers are urged to speak the truth in love, gently correcting those who mock God. Proverbs 151 states, ‘A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.’ Christians should seek to share God’s wisdom with those who mock, praying for their hearts to be softened.
2. Avoiding Association with Scoffers
While it is important to reach out to scoffers with love and the truth of the Gospel, the Bible also advises believers to avoid close association with them. Psalm 1 warns against walking in the company of mockers, as their attitudes and behavior can lead believers astray. Christians are encouraged to surround themselves with wise and godly individuals who can support their spiritual growth.
Conclusion The Importance of Humility and Wisdom
The concept of the scoffer in the Bible serves as a warning against pride, arrogance, and the rejection of wisdom. Scoffers mock God and His teachings, leading to spiritual blindness, judgment, and separation from God. Christians are called to live in humility, seeking God’s wisdom and responding to scoffers with love and grace.
By understanding the dangers of being a scoffer, believers can avoid the path of mockery and instead pursue a life of wisdom, humility, and obedience to God’s word. In doing so, they will reflect the character of Christ and bear witness to the transformative power of God’s truth.