Topical Bible: Reviling and Reproaching: Saints: Trust in God Under

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Topical Encyclopedia

Reviling and reproaching are forms of verbal abuse and scorn that believers may face due to their faith and righteous living. Throughout the Bible, saints have encountered such hostility, yet they are called to trust in God amidst these trials. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and teachings on how to endure reviling and reproaching with faith and perseverance.

Biblical Instances and Teachings:

1. Jesus Christ as the Ultimate Example:
Jesus Christ, the cornerstone of the Christian faith, endured reviling and reproach during His earthly ministry. Despite being mocked and scorned, He remained steadfast in His mission. In 1 Peter 2:23 , it is written, "When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly." Jesus' response to reviling serves as the ultimate model for believers, demonstrating trust in God's righteous judgment.

2. The Apostles' Response:
The apostles also faced significant reviling and reproach as they spread the Gospel. In Acts 5:41 , after being flogged and ordered not to speak in the name of Jesus, the apostles "left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name." Their joy in suffering for Christ exemplifies a profound trust in God's purposes and promises.

3. Old Testament Saints:
The Old Testament provides examples of saints who trusted in God amidst reproach. David, in particular, often faced reviling from his enemies. In Psalm 31:13-14 , he laments, "For I hear the slander of many; there is terror on every side. They conspire against me and plot to take my life. But I trust in You, O LORD; I say, 'You are my God.'" David's reliance on God in the face of slander and conspiracy highlights the enduring faith of the saints.

4. Teachings of Jesus:
Jesus taught His followers to expect and endure reviling for His sake. In Matthew 5:11-12 , He states, "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 view reviling as a cause for joy, knowing that their reward is secure in heaven.

5. Paul's Encouragement:
The Apostle Paul, who frequently faced reviling, encouraged believers to respond with blessing. In Romans 12:14 , he writes, "Bless those who persecute you. Bless and do not curse." This instruction underscores the transformative power of responding to reviling with grace and trust in God's sovereignty.

Trust in God's Deliverance:

The Bible consistently affirms that God is a refuge and deliverer for those who trust in Him amidst reviling and reproach. Psalm 37:5-6 assures believers, "Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it. He will bring forth your righteousness like the dawn, your justice like the noonday sun." This promise encourages saints to remain faithful, trusting that God will vindicate them in His perfect timing.

Conclusion:

While reviling and reproaching are challenging experiences for the saints, the Bible provides a wealth of examples and teachings that encourage trust in God. By looking to the examples of Jesus, the apostles, and the saints of old, believers are equipped to endure with faith, knowing that their ultimate vindication and reward come from the Lord.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 57:3
He shall send from heaven, and save me from the reproach of him that would swallow me up. Selah. God shall send forth his mercy and his truth.
Torrey's Topical Textbook