Proverbs 14:9 Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.

Introductory Thoughts

The Bible says that fools make a mock at sin. To understand the import of this passage, one must biblically grasp more fully the meaning of the word mock. According to the scripture, to mock is to deceive (Judges 16:10, 13, 15; Proverbs 20:1), deride (Matthew 27:29-31), laugh at (2 Chronicles 30:10; Job 12:4; Proverbs 1:26), or make light of (Job 39:22). Additionally interesting, the word mock came into English from a word that meant to blow the nose. Men who make light of a statement or event often demonstrate their mockery by this type of nose-blowing gesture. However, sin is not to be considered a light matter and this type of attitude should never be demonstrated toward sin. God is not to be mocked (Galatians 6:7) and sin is not to be mocked.

Devotional Thoughts

  • (For children): Jeroboam caused Israel to sin (1 Kings 12:20, 26-30). Ahab took Jeroboam’s sins lightly and did worse acts than he did (1 Kings 16:30-33; Proverbs 10:23a). God was not mocked (2 Kings 17:22-23). Judah mocked God’s messengers and did not get away with it (2 Chronicles 36:14-20; Jeremiah 25:11).
  • (For everyone): Do you make a mock at sin? Do you mock when the preacher preaches against sin? Do you mock when you read of God’s warnings concerning sin? If so, what kind of person does the Bible suggest that you are?
  • According to Jude 1:18, mockers walk after their own ungodly lusts. Think of some people in scripture who fit that description.

Prayer Thoughts

  • Ask God to give you a healthy fear of Him and a fear of sin.
  • Ask the Lord to show you the present condition of your heart.

SONG: ALAS! AND DID MY SAVIOUR BLEED?