How does Proverbs 21:24 define and describe a "proud and arrogant" person? Verse Text “Mocker is the name of the proud and arrogant man—of him who acts with excessive pride.” Proverbs 21:24 Key Words and Phrases • Mocker—someone who belittles, ridicules, or sneers at others • Name—reveals character; what a person is truly known for • Proud and arrogant—lifted up in self-importance, inflated view of self • Acts with excessive pride—habitual, outward behavior flowing from an inner attitude What the Verse Teaches • Pride and arrogance are inseparable from mockery. • A proud spirit does more than feel superior; it voices contempt. • Scripture places an identifying label—“Mocker”—on such a person, underscoring how seriously God views this sin. Character Traits of the Proud and Arrogant • Scoffing tone toward correction (Proverbs 9:7-8; 15:12) • Self-exalting talk that diminishes others (Proverbs 14:21) • Resistance to wisdom and instruction (Proverbs 13:1) • A heart set on self-reliance rather than fear of the LORD (Proverbs 3:5-7) • Open display of superiority—“acts with excessive pride” (Proverbs 21:24) Consequences Seen Elsewhere in Scripture • Ruin—“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18) • Divine opposition—“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) • Isolation—“A mocker seeks wisdom and finds none.” (Proverbs 14:6) • Judgment—“You rebuke the arrogant, the cursed ones who stray from Your commandments.” (Psalm 119:21) Positive Alternative • Humility—placing oneself under God’s authority and valuing others above self (Philippians 2:3-4) • Teachability—welcoming reproof and wisdom (Proverbs 9:9) • Reverent fear of the LORD—foundation of knowledge (Proverbs 1:7) Takeaways for Today • God names and exposes pride; it cannot be hidden behind polite manners or religious talk. • Scoffing reveals a deeper heart issue: self enthroned where God alone should reign. • Choosing humility invites grace, wisdom, and lasting honor (Proverbs 22:4). |
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