The dictionary refers to cynicism as an inclination to believe that people are motivated purely by self-interest. Synonyms include doubt, suspension and skeptical. As postmodern and secular humanism replace a biblical worldview, it’s not uncommon to hear individuals ridicule responses from God. Following the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting at the Tree of Life Worship Center, a few members of the media scoffed at offers of thoughts and prayers for those affected. Instead these individuals demanded calls for repealing the second amendment by demonizing guns.
Knowing this first of all, that scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires, 2 Peter 3:3.
According to one of Jesus’ disciples, the world will see a rise in scoffing. A growing number of people will liter their speech with deriding comments, mockery and a sneering tone. The days of Leave It to Beaver and Little House on the Prairie are long gone. In it’s place Modern Family, Seinfeld and the Simpsons has transformed millennials. As a generation grows up without attending church, experiencing youth groups and or missing a spiritual mentor along the way, it’s no wonder that scoffers will increase as the second coming of Jesus approaches.
One of the criminals who had been hanged [on a cross beside Him] kept hurling abuse at Him, saying, “Are You not the Christ? Save Yourself and us [from death]!”– Luke 23:39
As a trio of people were in the process of being crucified, one desperate soul fought to the very end. In the heat of the moment, this criminal became frustrated by Jesus’ lack of action. Essentially, he was saying, “we don’t have much time left; if you’re truly the Son of God, save yourself; then save us.” Unaware of God’s grand design, this man died without knowing a Savior. Perhaps, the bitterness, ridicule and venom that comes out of someone’s mouth is a byproduct of spiritual frustration. Thus, the next time you are a victim of ridicule, dig a little deeper into the life of this perpetrator to see if the hope of a Savior may transform their life.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 