How can we respond to ridicule for our faith, as seen in Matthew 26:68? Setting the Scene: Jesus Endures Mockery “and said, ‘Prophesy to us, Christ! Who hit You?’ ” (Matthew 26:68) • Jesus has just been arrested, falsely accused, spat upon, and struck (v. 67). • The mockers question His identity and authority, aiming to shame Him. • He remains composed, fulfilling what Isaiah foretold: “He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth” (Isaiah 53:7). Ridicule Is Part of the Journey • “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). • “Do not be surprised, beloved, at the fiery trial that has come upon you” (1 Peter 4:12). • Mockery links believers with the prophets and with Christ Himself (Matthew 5:11–12). Jesus’ Pattern of Silent Strength • He trusted the Father to vindicate Him (1 Peter 2:23). • He kept His focus on the coming joy (Hebrews 12:2–3). • He answered hatred with holiness, fulfilling righteousness rather than demanding His rights (Romans 12:19). Practical Responses When Faith Is Mocked • Choose restraint – Respond “not with evil for evil or insult for insult, but with blessing” (1 Peter 3:9). • Speak truth with grace – “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6). • Lean on Scripture – Recall promises like Psalm 27:1; confidence grows when truth floods the mind. • Pray for persecutors – “Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:28). • Stay connected to fellow believers – Mutual encouragement fortifies against discouragement (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Keep serving – Continue good works so that opponents “may see your good deeds and glorify God” (1 Peter 2:12). Keeping the Bigger Picture in View • Ridicule cannot cancel the victory already secured at the cross (John 16:33). • Suffering for Christ produces eternal reward and deeper fellowship with Him (Philippians 3:10). • The Spirit empowers steadfastness; His fruit includes patience and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). Holding to these truths transforms ridicule from a stumbling block into a stepping-stone for greater likeness to Christ and a clearer witness to the world. |
    |