THE JUDGMENT OF MOCKERS AND SCOFFERS By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Proverbs 3:34 - "He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed."
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INTRODUCTION
Throughout history, there have been those who mock and scoff at God, His people, and His righteous ways. In the present age, mockers and scoffers have become more vocal, assuming that they hold power over the faithful. However, Scripture is clear that their end is destruction unless they repent. The Living God, in His supreme authority, will turn their mockery back upon them. This lesson explores the dangers of mockery, its spiritual consequences, and the ultimate victory of the righteous.
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THE SPIRITUAL BLINDNESS OF MOCKERS
Proverbs 16:18 - "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall."
Mockers are often driven by pride, believing themselves to be above divine correction. They reject godly wisdom and assume they are self-sufficient. However, this pride blinds them to the truth, leading them to a path of ruin. The enemy exploits their arrogance, making them tools for destruction. True believers, on the other hand, humble themselves before God, acknowledging Him as their source of wisdom and strength.
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THE MISERY OF THOSE WHO OPPOSE GOD
Isaiah 57:20-21 - "But the wicked are like the tossing sea, which cannot rest, whose waves cast up mire and mud. ‘There is no peace,’ says my God, ‘for the wicked.’"
Those who hate God and mock His people often lead miserable lives. Though they appear joyful outwardly, their hearts are filled with emptiness and torment. Their opposition to God does not bring them satisfaction but instead intensifies their suffering. While they attempt to drag others into their despair, true believers must respond with prayer, trusting that some will eventually recognize their folly and turn to Christ.
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GOD WILL MOCK THE MOCKERS
Psalm 2:4 - "The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them."
God is never intimidated by those who mock Him or His people. Instead, He turns their ridicule back upon them. In their arrogance, they believe they will prevail over righteousness, but God will bring them low. He exposes their foolishness and strips them of the power they believe they hold. This divine judgment serves as a reminder that no one can stand against the Almighty and prevail.
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THE FATE OF THOSE WHO REJECT GOD
2 Peter 3:3-7 - "Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, ‘Where is this ‘coming’ He promised?’ Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation.’ But they deliberately forget that long ago by God’s word the heavens came into being and the earth was formed out of water and by water. By these waters also the world of that time was deluged and destroyed. By the same word, the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly."
Scripture warns that in the last days, mockers will increase, denying God’s truth and following their sinful desires. However, their judgment is assured. Just as God judged the world through the flood in Noah’s time, He will bring destruction upon the ungodly. Those who persist in rebellion will suffer eternal separation from God in hell, the ultimate consequence of their pride and mockery.
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THE VICTORY OF THE RIGHTEOUS
Romans 12:19 - "Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord."
Believers need not fear the scoffers, for their destiny is in God’s hands. The righteous are called to trust in the Lord, knowing that He will ultimately vindicate them. Instead of retaliating against mockers, Christians are to pray for them, hoping that they will repent before it is too late. God remains supreme, and His truth will stand forever.
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SUMMARY
Mockers and scoffers live in spiritual blindness, driven by pride and arrogance. Their lives are filled with misery, and their mockery will eventually be turned against them by God Himself. The judgment of the wicked is certain, but the righteous must remain steadfast, trusting in God’s justice and praying for those who oppose the truth.
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CONCLUSION
The Living God reigns supreme, and no mocker or scoffer can stand against Him. Those who persist in their arrogance will face judgment, while those who turn to Christ will find redemption and peace. True believers are called to stand firm, knowing that God is their refuge and defender.
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CALL TO ACTION
If you have been ridiculed for your faith, do not be discouraged. Stand firm in the truth and continue to pray for those who mock God, as some may yet turn to Him. Trust in the Lord’s justice, for He alone has the power to judge righteously. Seek His presence daily and remain steadfast in your walk with Christ.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Isaiah 41:10 - "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
God is with His people and will never abandon them. Take courage, for His strength will sustain you in all circumstances. Remain faithful, and He will lead you to victory.
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SALVATION PRAYER
If you have not yet surrendered your life to Christ, now is the time. Pray this prayer with sincerity:
Heavenly Father, I come before You acknowledging that I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son, that He died for my sins, and that He rose again on the third day. I ask for Your forgiveness and invite Jesus into my heart as my Lord and Savior. Cleanse me from my sins and lead me in Your righteous path. Thank You for Your grace and salvation. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
