How should believers respond to mockery for their faith today? Setting the Scene Matthew 27:39: “And those who passed by heaped abuse on Him, shaking their heads.” Jesus, nailed to the cross, hears the taunts of passers-by. Their sneering fulfills Psalm 22:7, showing Scripture’s literal accuracy and reminding us that mockery toward God’s people is nothing new. Why Mockery Shouldn’t Surprise Us • John 15:18 – “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first.” • 2 Timothy 3:12 – “All who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” • 1 Peter 4:12 – “Do not be surprised at the fiery trial… as though something strange were happening to you.” Followers of Christ walk a path already marked by their Master. Opposition is expected, not exceptional. Look to Jesus’ Example • 1 Peter 2:23 – “When He was reviled, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats.” • Luke 23:34 – “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Key takeaways: – He absorbed insults without responding in kind. – He entrusted justice to the Father. – He prayed for His mockers. Heart Attitudes to Cultivate • Humility (Philippians 2:5) – adopt the mindset of Christ. • Mercy (Colossians 3:12-13) – bear with others and forgive. • Joy (Matthew 5:11-12) – rejoice when reviled, knowing your reward. • Steadfastness (Galatians 6:9) – do not grow weary in doing good. Practical Responses Today 1. Pause before answering. A soft reply (Proverbs 15:1) diffuses anger. 2. Speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). Avoid sarcasm or spite. 3. Pray for those who mock (Luke 6:27-28). 4. Remember your identity (1 Peter 2:9). Their words do not define you. 5. Stay in fellowship. Encouragement from other believers strengthens resolve (Hebrews 10:24-25). 6. Keep doing good (Romans 12:17-21). Overcome evil with active kindness. Promises to Anchor the Soul • Hebrews 12:2-3 – Consider Him who endured such hostility… so that you will not grow weary. • 1 Peter 4:14 – “If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed.” • Psalm 37:5-6 – He will vindicate the righteous in His timing. Encouragement from the Early Church • Acts 5:41 – They left the council “rejoicing that they had been counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name.” • 2 Corinthians 12:10 – “When I am weak, then I am strong.” Paul embraced mockery and weakness because Christ’s power rested on him. Living It Out Stride forward with the quiet confidence that the same Savior who endured the ridicule of Matthew 27:39 walks with you today. Keep eyes fixed on Him, return good for evil, and trust that God’s justice and reward are sure. |
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