In biblical terms, a "reproacher" is one who brings reproach, criticism, or disgrace upon another, often through words or actions. The concept of reproach is significant in Scripture, as it relates to the themes of sin, shame, and the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

Old Testament Context

The Hebrew word often translated as "reproach" is "cherpah," which conveys the idea of disgrace or scorn. Reproach is frequently associated with the consequences of sin and disobedience to God. In the Old Testament, Israel is often warned against actions that would bring reproach upon themselves and, by extension, upon God's name. For example, in Psalm 69:9 , David laments, "For zeal for Your house has consumed me, and the reproaches of those who reproach You have fallen on me." Here, reproach is linked to the suffering endured by the righteous on behalf of God's honor.

The prophets also speak of reproach in the context of Israel's unfaithfulness. In Ezekiel 36:30 , God promises, "I will increase the fruit of the trees and the produce of the fields, so that you will never again suffer the reproach of famine among the nations." This verse highlights the connection between reproach and the consequences of national sin, as well as God's redemptive promise to remove such disgrace.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the Greek word "oneidismos" is used to describe reproach. The concept is often associated with the suffering and persecution faced by believers for the sake of Christ. In Hebrews 11:26 , Moses is commended for "regarding disgrace for the sake of Christ as greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to his reward." Here, reproach is seen as a badge of honor for those who suffer for their faith, aligning themselves with Christ's own sufferings.

Jesus Himself speaks of reproach in the Beatitudes, where He blesses those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake. In Matthew 5:11 , He states, "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me." This teaching underscores the idea that reproach for the sake of Christ is a mark of true discipleship and a cause for rejoicing.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, reproach is both a consequence of sin and a potential mark of faithfulness. For the unrepentant, reproach signifies the shame and disgrace that accompany a life lived in opposition to God's will. For the believer, however, reproach can be a sign of fidelity to Christ, as enduring scorn for His name's sake is seen as a participation in His sufferings.

The Bible calls believers to live in such a way that they do not bring reproach upon the name of Christ. In 1 Timothy 3:7 , Paul advises that a church leader "must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the snare of the devil." This instruction emphasizes the importance of maintaining a life that reflects the holiness and integrity of the Christian faith.

Practical Application

In practical terms, Christians are encouraged to avoid being reproachers themselves, refraining from actions or words that would unjustly criticize or disgrace others. Instead, they are called to live lives that honor God and reflect His love and truth to the world. As believers navigate the challenges of living in a fallen world, they are reminded to bear reproach for the sake of Christ with patience and joy, trusting in the ultimate vindication and reward that comes from God.(n.) One who reproaches.

Psalm C.
... And then, when he hath gone forth himself too, he also becometh a reproacher, and
a slanderer; and records those things only (sometimes real), which he asserts ...
//christianbookshelf.org/augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm c.htm

What we Can Say on the Historicity of the Miracles of Jesus
... boy, who touches him by the shoulder whilst running, he causes to fall down dead,
"for every word of his is a ready deed." To the reproacher, he replies that ...
//christianbookshelf.org/beth/the miracles of jesus/iii what we can say.htm

A Book for Boys and Girls Or, Temporal Things Spritualized.
... Now, my reproacher, I do by all this Show how thou may'st possess thyself of bliss:
Thou art worse than a spider, but take hold On Christ the door, thou shalt ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a book for boys and.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm

Reproacher (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Reproacher (2 Occurrences). Psalms 44:16 Because of the
voice of a reproacher and reviler, Because of an enemy and a self-avenger. ...
/r/reproacher.htm - 7k

Reproached (27 Occurrences)

/r/reproached.htm - 14k

Reproachers (1 Occurrence)

/r/reproachers.htm - 6k

Reviler (3 Occurrences)
... Moses. (DBY YLT). Psalms 44:16 Because of the voice of a reproacher and
reviler, Because of an enemy and a self-avenger. (YLT RSV). ...
/r/reviler.htm - 7k

Self-avenger (2 Occurrences)
... avenger. (YLT). Psalms 44:16 Because of the voice of a reproacher and reviler,
Because of an enemy and a self-avenger. (YLT). Self ...
/s/self-avenger.htm - 7k

Revile (28 Occurrences)
... Psalms 44:16 Because of the voice of a reproacher and reviler, Because
of an enemy and a self-avenger. (Root in YLT NAS RSV NIV). ...
/r/revile.htm - 14k

Reproacher: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus