The descriptive “reviler” is simply someone who rails publicly against another person’s beliefs and actions. A reviler ostracizes, ridicules, and makes fun another’s religious faith. The apostle Paul tells us such a person is doomed to hell. “Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10). He also warns not to even associate with a reviler. “I have written to you not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or is a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner-not even to eat with such a person.” (1 Corinthians 5:11). Of course, this does not mean someone who disagrees with your theology, but someone who is actively demeaning you for your understanding of scripture.
If you find you are being reviled, you’re in good company. The religious leaders reviled the man born blind whom Jesus had healed. “Then they reviled him and said, ‘you are his disciple, but we are Moses disciples.'” (John 9:28). Jesus Himself was reviled while on the cross. “And those who passed by reviled Him, wagging their heads.” Matthew 27:39). “Even those crucified with Him reviled Him.” (Mark 15:32). Jesus, however, did not respond in kind. “Who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return.” (1 Peter 2:23). He should be our example. We should also emulate the Apostle Paul. “And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure, being defamed, we entreat.” (1 Corinthians 4:12-13).
As the Holy Spirit continues to remind us and teach us about soon coming eschatological events, don’t stop sharing your knowledge of these things with whoever is receptive, it’s eternally important. Undoubtably there will be scoffers and revilers attempting to belittle and ridicule your positions, even from your own families and local church. But know that Jesus has your back. “Blessed are you when they revile you and persecute you and say all kind of evil against you falsely for My sake.” (Matthew 5:11).
Maranatha, Jim