Topical Encyclopedia Ridiculing, in the context of the Bible, refers to the act of mocking, deriding, or making fun of someone or something, often with the intent to belittle or demean. This behavior is generally portrayed negatively in Scripture, as it often stems from pride, arrogance, or a lack of understanding and respect for others.Old Testament Instances Ridicule is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament, often directed towards the prophets and the faithful. In 2 Kings 2:23-24, the prophet Elisha is mocked by a group of youths: "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, 'Go on up, you baldhead! Go on up, you baldhead!' 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 ridicule against His servants. The Psalms also address the issue of ridicule. Psalm 1:1 states, "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers." Here, mockers are associated with the wicked, indicating that ridiculing is contrary to the righteous path. New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, Jesus Himself was subjected to ridicule, particularly during His crucifixion. Matthew 27:29-31 describes 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. Then they knelt down before Him and mocked Him, saying, 'Hail, King of the Jews!' They spat 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." The Apostle Paul also addresses the issue of ridicule in his letters. In Galatians 6:7 , he warns, "Do not be deceived: God is not to be mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return." This verse underscores the principle that mocking God or His principles will ultimately lead to consequences. Wisdom Literature The Book of Proverbs frequently contrasts the wise with the mockers. Proverbs 9:7-8 advises, "He who corrects a mocker brings shame on himself; he who rebukes a wicked man taints himself. Do not rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you." This passage highlights the futility of trying to correct those who are set in their mocking ways, as they are often resistant to wisdom and correction. Moral and Ethical Implications Ridiculing is often linked with pride and a lack of humility. It is seen as a behavior that distances individuals from God and from living a life of righteousness. The Bible encourages believers to speak with grace and kindness, avoiding the temptation to mock or belittle others. Ephesians 4:29 instructs, "Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen." In summary, ridiculing is consistently portrayed in the Bible as a negative behavior that is contrary to the character of God and the teachings of Christ. Believers are called to rise above such actions, embodying love, respect, and humility in their interactions with others. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Ridicule.Library This Jew of Celsus, Ridiculing Jesus, as He Imagines... In the Next Place, Ridiculing after his Usual Style the Race of ... Observe, Now, Here at the Very Beginning, How, in Ridiculing the ... The Praise of Men. The Preface. Refutation of the Gentiles The Goobbe Circuit Given Up. Titus i. 14-Dec Hence it Is, that Grieving, Quenching, or Resisting the Spirit... Deists. Thesaurus Ridiculing (2 Occurrences)...Ridiculing (2 Occurrences). Matthew 9:24 he said to them, "Make room, because the girl isn't dead, but sleeping." They were ridiculing him. (WEB). ... /r/ridiculing.htm - 7k Ridiculed (12 Occurrences) Riding (30 Occurrences) Leave (341 Occurrences) Lord (59401 Occurrences) Girl (71 Occurrences) Isn't (154 Occurrences) Room (174 Occurrences) Depart (211 Occurrences) Palace (194 Occurrences) Resources How should a Christian view comedy? | GotQuestions.orgRidiculing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Ridiculing (2 Occurrences)Matthew 9:24 Luke 8:53 Subtopics Related Terms Threshingfloor (18 Occurrences) |
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