God sent messengers to the people of Judah, continuously and consistently, because he loved them. However, the response was deliberate rejection. “But they kept mocking the messengers of God, despising his words and scoffing at his prophets, until the wrath of the Lord rose against his people, until there was no remedy.” (II Chronicles 36:16) Throughout the history of Israel there were three complaints: they were unfaithful, defiled the Temple including sacrifices and laughed at the prophets.
Mock: The word means to make fun of, tease, or ridicule. The people made fun of the prophets and their messages and mimicked them. Elijah was caught up to heaven by the chariot of fire. Youngsters mocked Elisha, gheraoing him to go up like Elijah did. Elisha cursed the mockers that they were injured and maimed by she-bears. (II Kings 2:22-23)
Despise: It means to dislike or disapprove strongly. The people did not receive or approve the messages of the messengers of God. It is more of an emotional response. Despise means to treat the prophet as worthless and his messages undesirable. They were intruders in their lifestyle, a joy killer.
Scoff: To show contempt or disdain. The people had a sense of superiority and treated the prophets as naïve, illiterate, and good for nothing. It could be expressed in words or non-verbal gestures. A blessed person is uncomfortable in the company of scoffers and will not sit with them. (Psalm 1:1)
Wrath of God: The compassion, love, and covenant of God were mocked, despised, scoffed, and scorned. The response of God was to pour out His wrath upon the nation. The wrath of God reveals His Holy anger, condemnation, and judgment.
No remedy: When there is no repentance, there is no remedy. Continuous rebellion means the Spirit of God will not convict a person. (Genesis 6:3) Persistence in disobedience and stubbornness will lead to a hardened heart, and one will lose the capacity to repent.
Global phenomenon: Many nations today have rejected the True God; mock and persecute the church, inviting God’s wrath.
Do I know the True God and obey Him?