The Bible warns us about scoffers—those who mock God, reject His wisdom, and seek to lead others astray. They are often proud, unwilling to listen to truth, and dismissive of God’s word. As believers, we must recognize their influence and stand firm in faith, knowing that God will deal with them in His perfect time. Here are Bible verses that reveal the dangers of scoffers and how we should respond.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Gossip and Slander
The Characteristics of Scoffers
Scoffers are often described as arrogant and unwilling to learn. They reject correction, mock righteousness, and take pride in their own understanding. The Bible teaches that such individuals are headed for destruction unless they repent and turn to God. Here are some verses that describe the character of scoffers:
Proverbs 21:24
“Mockers are proud and haughty; they act with boundless arrogance.”
Proverbs 9:7-8
“Anyone who rebukes a mocker will get an insult in return. Anyone who corrects the wicked will get hurt. So don’t bother correcting mockers; they will only hate you. But correct the wise, and they will love you.”
Proverbs 14:6
“A mocker seeks wisdom and never finds it, but knowledge comes easily to those with understanding.”
Psalm 1:1
“Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers.”
Isaiah 28:22
“So now, don’t scoff, or your punishment will become even greater. For the Lord, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, has told me what destruction is determined against the whole land.”
The Fate of Scoffers
Scripture makes it clear that scoffers will not go unpunished. Their rejection of truth and mockery of God will lead them to destruction. The Lord warns us that their judgment is certain unless they repent. Here are some verses about the consequences of scoffing:
Proverbs 19:29
“Punishment is made for mockers, and the backs of fools are made to be beaten.”
Jude 1:18
“They told you that in the last times there would be scoffers whose purpose in life is to satisfy their ungodly desires.”
Proverbs 3:34
“The Lord mocks the mockers but is gracious to the humble.”
2 Peter 3:3
“Most importantly, I want to remind you that in the last days scoffers will come, mocking the truth and following their own desires.”
Psalm 73:8-9
“They scoff and speak only evil; in their pride they seek to crush others. They boast against the very heavens, and their words strut throughout the earth.”
How to Respond to Scoffers
Instead of engaging in arguments with scoffers, believers are encouraged to stand firm in their faith and trust in the wisdom of God. The Bible teaches that we should not cast pearls before swine but rather continue to live righteously and pray for those who mock the truth.
Matthew 7:6
“Don’t waste what is holy on people who are unholy. Don’t throw your pearls to pigs! They will trample the pearls, then turn and attack you.”
Titus 3:10-11
“If people are causing divisions among you, give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with them. For people like that have turned away from the truth, and their own sins condemn them.”
2 Timothy 2:23-24
“Again I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people.”
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.”
Proverbs 26:4
“Don’t answer the foolish arguments of fools, or you will become as foolish as they are.”
The Influence of Scoffers
Scoffers not only reject the truth themselves but also seek to lead others astray. They spread doubt, mock godly living, and attempt to weaken the faith of believers. The Bible warns us to be cautious of their influence and to remain rooted in God’s word.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.”
Psalm 119:51
“The proud hold me in utter contempt, but I do not turn away from your instructions.”
2 Peter 2:1-2
“But there were also false prophets in Israel, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will cleverly teach destructive heresies and even deny the Master who bought them. In this way, they will bring sudden destruction on themselves. Many will follow their evil teaching and shameful immorality. And because of these teachers, the way of truth will be slandered.”
Proverbs 24:9
“The schemes of a fool are sinful; everyone detests a mocker.”
Romans 1:22
“Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools.”
Also Read: Bible Verses About Enemies
Scoffers in the Last Days
The Bible tells us that in the last days, scoffers will become even more prevalent. They will mock the return of Christ and reject God’s authority. However, believers are called to stand firm in faith, knowing that God’s promises will be fulfilled.
2 Peter 3:4
“They will say, ‘What happened to the promise that Jesus is coming again? From before the times of our ancestors, everything has remained the same since the world was first created.’”
1 Timothy 4:1-2
“Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons. These people are hypocrites and liars, and their consciences are dead.”
2 Timothy 3:1-2
“You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred.”
Matthew 24:37-39
“When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day. In those days before the flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat. People didn’t realize what was going to happen until the flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes.”
Jude 1:16
“These people are grumblers and complainers, living only to satisfy their desires. They brag loudly about themselves, and they flatter others to get what they want.”
The Call to Wisdom
Instead of being influenced by scoffers, believers are called to seek wisdom, live righteously, and trust in God’s word. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and those who follow His ways will be blessed.
Proverbs 1:7
“Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.”
Proverbs 15:12
“Mockers hate to be corrected, so they stay away from the wise.”
James 1:5
“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.”
Ecclesiastes 10:12
“Wise words bring approval, but fools are destroyed by their own words.”
Psalm 111:10
“Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom. All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom. Praise him forever!”
Final Encouragement
Though scoffers may mock and reject the truth, believers can take heart knowing that God is in control. He calls us to stand firm, continue in righteousness, and trust in His justice. Our hope is in Christ, and His truth will prevail.
Isaiah 40:8
“The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.”
1 Peter 3:15-16
“Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ.”
Romans 12:2
“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”
Hebrews 10:23
“Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.”
Matthew 5:11-12
“God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.”