2 Peter 3:1-4

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This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour: Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.

Scoffers always exist. Their existence is as certain as the air we breathe. If there is someone working hard at something, there will be someone criticizing the work being done. If there is someone who sets their will on something, you can usually find someone else who is ready to be a “killjoy” and explain how the desire that the person has will never work out. It is just natural. These scoffers consider themselves extremely wise, because they can listen to another’s words and point out all the idiosyncrasies and contradictions, the stutterings and mis-speakings. They jeer and mock, and use the ridicule that they play out as a means to uplift themselves. Instead of accomplishing or striving, they find it easier to work a reactionary position that just mocks and tears down those around them. With no effort, they constantly deride those around them and in doing so, they consider that they are elevating themselves to a “higher position” than others. Talk show hosts like David Letterman, Rush Limbaugh, and Glenn Beck are masters of  “scoffing.” They will find something that the President said and then mock it until they feel as though those around them view the scoffer as more prestigious then the one being scoffed. This arrogance is not healthy, and never brings help. Solomon says in Proverbs 22:10, “Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out; yea, strife and reproach shall cease.” The best place for scorners and scoffers is “cast out.” Scorners bring nothing to the table except negativity. Peter knows that scorners will always mock. He knows that in the days to come scorners will come and mock the fact that the Lord has not yet returned, and he tells his followers to remain in the hope of His coming. Rest in what Christ has accomplished and trust that as He has justified you, and is currently by His grace sanctifying you, one day He will glorify you. Now realize that scoffing comes from the mouths of the miserable who desire you to join their company in misery and doubt. Trust and hope in Christ, don’t be shaken by mockers.

Food For Thought: What is the term that means “one who mocks”? Are scoffers inherently happy people? What is a negative byproduct of people being scoffers?