Can a follower of Jesus be a scoffer?


Proverbs 9:12--Can a follower of Jesus be a scoffer?

The definition of a scoffer is one who mocks, ridicules, or scorns the belief of another. In the Hebrew, scoffer can also be translated as an ambassador--as in someone who seeks to represent the opposing side.

In today's world, we're oftentimes representing the opposing side. The question is: are we wise or scoffers.


GOD calls us to a higher standard of behavior. How we handle the verbal attacks against our opinion and sometimes character, will go a long way in helping or hindering our cause.

We can choose to respond to these attacks with wisdom--which includes knowledge, understanding, integrity, discernment, and gentleness--or we can ridicule, mock, or scorn.

We could even rebuke, but if the other person is not themselves wise, it will fall on deaf ears.

I hate to admit it, but I've participated in the social media debates. I can honestly say they left me feeling exhausted and most times, angry and frustrated. Those who may have swayed me to look at a subject differently, were those who moderated the dialog to keep scoffers at bay. Those whose opinions I may have agreed with, because of their poor behavior, I couldn't support them.

Ultimately, we must follow GOD's word and Yeshua's example to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39), give our coat (Matthew 5:40), and forgive 70x7 (Matthew 18:22). And, unless we've been given legal authority, it's not our job to judge or punish. 

By the way, no one has authority (except GOD) to take revenge (Deuteronomy 32:35, Romans 12:17).

As I said, it's a higher calling. And definitely not for wimps.

May we take the wise advantage, my friends.

Proverbs 8:12--If you are wise, you are wise to your own advantage, but if you scoff, you bear it alone. Tree of Life Bible Society Tree of Life Version - TLV #tlvbible #tlvproverbs

[WATCH Tree of Life Bible Society's CEO, Daniah Greenberg and me, Terri Gillespie dig a little deeper with the book of Proverbs. Check us out at Tree of Life Bible Society, MONDAY through FRIDAY, LIVE at 8:30am EST. Watch previous episodes there as well. Stay wise, my friends!]

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