Mockery and derision are themes that appear throughout the Bible, often highlighting the tension between the faithful and those who oppose or misunderstand them. These acts of scorn and ridicule are typically portrayed as tools of the wicked, used to undermine the righteous and challenge their faith. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings on how believers should respond to such treatment.

Old Testament Instances

In the Old Testament, mockery is frequently directed at God's prophets and chosen people. For instance, the prophet Elisha was mocked by a group of youths in 2 Kings 2:23-24: "From there, Elisha went up to Bethel. As he was walking along the road, some boys came out of the town and jeered at him, saying, 'Get out of here, baldy!' He turned around, looked at them, and called down a curse on them in the name of the LORD. Then two bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the boys." This passage illustrates the seriousness with which God views mockery against His servants.

The Psalms also frequently address the theme of mockery. Psalm 22:7-8 describes the suffering of the righteous: "All who see me mock me; they sneer and shake their heads: 'He trusts in the LORD; let the LORD deliver him; let the LORD rescue him, since He delights in him.'" This psalm, often seen as prophetic of Christ's suffering, underscores the pain and isolation that can accompany derision from the community.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus Himself was subjected to mockery, particularly during His trial and crucifixion. Matthew 27:29-31 recounts how the Roman soldiers mocked Him: "And they twisted together a crown of thorns, set it on His head, and put a staff in His right hand. They knelt down before Him and mocked Him, saying, 'Hail, King of the Jews!' Then they spit on Him and took the staff and struck Him on the head repeatedly. After they had mocked Him, they removed the robe and put His own clothes back on Him. Then they led Him away to crucify Him." This passage highlights the depth of humiliation and scorn that Jesus endured, fulfilling the prophecies and demonstrating His humility and obedience.

The apostles also faced mockery as they spread the Gospel. In Acts 2:13 , during the event of Pentecost, some onlookers mocked the disciples, saying, "They are full of new wine!" Despite this, Peter stood up and boldly proclaimed the truth, showing that mockery did not deter the early Christians from their mission.

Responses to Mockery

The Bible provides guidance on how believers should respond to mockery and derision. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:11-12 , "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you." This teaching encourages believers to see mockery as a form of persecution that aligns them with the prophets and promises a heavenly reward.

The Apostle Paul also addresses this issue in his letters. In 1 Corinthians 4:12-13 , he writes, "When we are slandered, we answer kindly. Up to this moment we have become the scum of the earth, the refuse of the world." Paul emphasizes responding to mockery with kindness and maintaining a humble attitude, reflecting Christ's own response to His persecutors.

Conclusion

Mockery and derision from the community are challenges that believers have faced throughout biblical history. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that encourage the faithful to endure such treatment with patience, humility, and a focus on the eternal reward promised by God.