In the Bible, “reviled” refers to the act of being insulted or spoken against with contempt, often seen in the context of persecution for one’s faith. For example, in Matthew 5:11, Jesus blesses those who are reviled for His sake, indicating that such suffering can lead to spiritual rewards.
Scripture
11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.”
12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Biblical Meaning of “Reviled”
The concept of being “reviled” in the Bible carries significant meaning, particularly when understood in the context of suffering for one’s faith. In Matthew 5:11-12, Jesus specifically addresses those who are reviled for His sake, stating, “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven.” This blessing highlights the transformative nature of suffering, where enduring insults and persecution is not only a trial but also a marker of true discipleship. The act of being reviled aligns the believer with Christ, who Himself faced scorn and ridicule. The apostle Peter echoes this sentiment in 1 Peter 4:14, where he writes, “If you are reviled for the name of Christ, blessed are you, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.”
Moreover, the broader implications of reviling extend beyond personal suffering to underscore the challenges faced by early Christians in a predominantly hostile environment. The New Testament often emphasizes that such experiences of scorn serve a dual purpose—both to refine the faith of believers and to serve as a testimony to the truth of the Gospel. Reviling evokes a sense of solidarity with Christ’s own suffering, emphasizing the idea that followers of Jesus may share in His experiences and, therefore, in His eventual glory. As articulated in Romans 8:17, “And if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.” Thus, being reviled is not merely a personal affront but part of the larger narrative of redemption, where enduring revilement for Christ’s sake becomes a pathway to deeper fellowship with Him and participation in His kingdom.
The notion of being reviled transforms the believer’s understanding of suffering into a profound spiritual journey. In the scriptures, reviling is depicted as part of the trials that test the sincerity of one’s faith. Both Jesus and His apostles affirm that enduring such vitriol is an integral aspect of the Christian experience, signifying one’s commitment to God’s truth in the face of opposition. This rejection can lead to spiritual growth, as believers learn to rely more heavily on God for strength and validation, shifting their focus from earthly approval to divine affirmation.
Additionally, the act of reviling serves to unify the Body of Christ, creating a sense of community among believers who share similar experiences of being ostracized for their faith. This collective experience fosters an environment of encouragement, where Christians can support one another through trials. The early church exemplified this unity in adversity, often gathering strength from each other’s testimonies and collective resilience. By recognizing their shared hardships, believers can draw closer to one another and to Christ, understanding that reviling is a reminder of their identity as partakers in His passion. In this light, the act of being reviled becomes a sacred part of their faith journey, reinforcing their resolve and commitment to carry the message of the Gospel despite the challenges they face.
The Experience of Suffering for Righteousness
In the biblical context, being reviled often signifies the suffering endured by those who stand firm in their faith and uphold righteousness. This suffering is not merely physical but can also be emotional and spiritual, as individuals face scorn and derision from others. The act of being reviled serves as a testament to one’s commitment to God and His teachings, highlighting the contrast between the values of the world and the values of the Kingdom of God.
The Call to Endurance and Faithfulness
Reviling can also be seen as a call to endurance and faithfulness in the face of adversity. The Bible encourages believers to remain steadfast when confronted with insults and persecution. This endurance is not just about tolerating negative treatment but is also an opportunity for spiritual growth and deeper reliance on God. It reinforces the idea that true faith is often tested through trials, and those who endure will ultimately be rewarded.
The Reflection of Christ’s Suffering
Another broader meaning of reviling in the Bible relates to the reflection of Christ’s own suffering. Jesus Himself faced revilement during His ministry and especially during His crucifixion. Believers are called to identify with Christ in His sufferings, understanding that reviling is part of the Christian journey. This connection emphasizes the importance of humility and the willingness to bear the burdens of others, mirroring the sacrificial love that Christ demonstrated.
How to Embrace Suffering as a Path to Faith
Embracing suffering as a path to faith can feel daunting, but it’s often in our most challenging moments that we draw closest to God. When we face trials, it’s essential to remember that suffering is not a sign of God’s absence but rather an opportunity for deeper connection and growth. Reflect on James 1:2-4, which encourages us to consider it pure joy when we encounter trials, knowing that they produce perseverance and ultimately strengthen our faith. In your own life, try to shift your perspective during tough times; instead of asking, “Why is this happening to me?” consider asking, “What is God teaching me through this?” Lean into prayer, seek community support, and immerse yourself in Scripture, allowing God’s promises to comfort and guide you. By embracing suffering with an open heart, you can transform pain into a profound testament of faith, drawing you closer to the love and grace of Christ.
Bible References to the Meaning of Reviled:
1 Peter 4:14-16: 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.
15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler.
16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.
1 Corinthians 4:12-13: 12 and we labor, working with our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure;
12 and we labor, working with our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure;
John 15:18-20: 18 “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.”
19 If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.
20 Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours.
Luke 6:22-23: 22 “Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man!”
23 Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven; for so their fathers did to the prophets.
Romans 12:14-21: 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.
15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.
17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.
18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”
20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.”
21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
1 Peter 2:21-23: 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.
22 He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth.
23 When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly.
2 Timothy 3:12-13: 12 Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,
13 while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.
Matthew 10:22-23: 22 and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.
23 When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next, for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes.
Acts 5:40-42: 40 and when they had called in the apostles, they beat them and charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.
41 Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.
42 And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.
Hebrews 11:36-38: 36 Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment.
They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated.
38 of whom the world was not worthy—wandering about in deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.
1 Peter 3:9-12: 9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.
10 For “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit;
11 let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it.
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer.
2 Corinthians 12:10-11: 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
11 I have been a fool! You forced me to it, for I ought to have been commended by you. For I was not at all inferior to these super-apostles, even though I am nothing.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.