How should we respond when our faith is mocked, as in 2 Chronicles 30:10? Setting the Scene 2 Chronicles 30 describes King Hezekiah’s invitation for all Israel and Judah to return to Jerusalem and celebrate Passover. Verse 10 records the reception: “The couriers traveled from city to city… But the people scorned and mocked them”. Faithful messengers were ridiculed simply for calling God’s people back to obedience. Mockery Is Not an Anomaly • Jesus warned, “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first” (John 15:18–19). • “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). Opposition is normal, not exceptional. Recognizing this steels us against surprise or discouragement. Keep Extending the Invitation • Hezekiah’s couriers did not halt their mission; they kept moving “from city to city.” • Our calling is the same—keep presenting the gospel, even when responses vary: “Proclaim the message; be ready in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). • Faithfulness is measured by obedience, not by applause. Guard the Heart with Humility and Gentleness • “A gentle answer turns away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1). • “But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense…yet with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15–16). Mockery tempts us to retaliate. Humility shields us from pride and keeps the conversation Christ-centered. Bless, Don’t Curse • “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse” (Romans 12:14). • “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). Choosing to bless disarms bitterness and displays the supernatural character of God’s love. Focus on the Bigger Picture • Mockery is momentary; eternal reward is lasting: “For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that far outweighs our troubles” (2 Corinthians 4:17). • We answer to God, not the crowd: “It is the Lord who judges me” (1 Corinthians 4:4). Draw Strength from Christ’s Example • “When He was reviled, He did not revile in return…He entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly” (1 Peter 2:23). • “Consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:3). Christ shows both the cost and the path: patient endurance anchored in the Father’s justice. Practical Ways to Respond Today – Expect some pushback; prepare your heart through daily time in the Word. – Keep sharing truth kindly; never let ridicule close your mouth. – Respond with calm, measured words; refuse sarcastic comebacks. – Pray immediately for those who mock; ask God to open their eyes. – Stay connected with believers who encourage steadfastness (Hebrews 10:24–25). – Celebrate small evidences of God’s work; leave ultimate results to Him. Closing Thought When mockery comes, Scripture calls us not to shrink back but to persevere with humility, blessing, and unwavering obedience—confident that God sees, rewards, and uses every faithful witness for His glory. |
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