Skip to content People love making fun of Christians. It might be in good fun, but it could also come from a darker place. Honestly, I don’t mind when people mock Christianity if it’s just to get a good laugh. Funny things are funny, and if it comes from a joking heart, then I’d love to hear more. However, if people poke fun at God or ridicule Him to insult His followers or attack Christianity to undermine its beliefs, it does sting a little bit. As a believer in Jesus and the doctrines of the church, how should I respond to the mockery?
Making fun of Christians- Why does it happen?
1. Dominant Power
Christianity has been the dominant religion in the Western world for centuries. It has held significant power, especially when considering the Catholic Church as part of Christendom. Power often begets resistance, and sometimes that resistance takes the form of mockery.
2. Past Abuse of Power
Unfortunately, verbal attacks and ridicule are sometimes justified. The history of the church has not always aligned with Jesus’ teachings and life, from the Crusades to the justification of colonization around the world.
3. Political Associations
Christianity has often tied itself to politics, to the point where, to some, the Christian faith is synonymous with particular political groups. When people make fun of the faith, they are often attacking a political party.
4. Unchristian Behavior
Another reason for mockery is the unchristian behavior displayed by some Christians. A common characteristic some have towards Christians include being intolerant, bigoted, and self-righteous. When despicable behavior is exhibited, some see it as fair game for ridicule.
5. Spiritual Forces
Given these reasons, some feel justified in mocking Christianity, as it presents an easy target. However, there could be other reasons, which are more speculative. I don’t discount the possibility of dark spiritual forces at play, aiming to undermine the credibility of the faith through mockery. But that is a topic for another time.
How should Christians respond to the ridicule
Although society may see the mockery as justified, and I certainly believe that Christians need to recognize the hurt they have caused over many generations, mockery is disrespectful and never appropriate. Christians should acknowledge the reasons behind it.
How then should Christians respond? Commonly, I’ve seen many Christians stand their ground and demand more respect. Some believe Christians should band together and push back against the ridicule. Others lobby for justice or boycott certain brands or events. However, I don’t believe these are the ways Jesus’ followers should operate.
These are tactics that non-Christians often employ when they feel offended. The Bible provides an example through Jesus on how we should respond, and it may not be easy or align with our natural human inclinations.
What did Jesus do?
Remember that Jesus was mocked at the lowest point of his ministry. He was given a crown of thorns to mock his claim of divinity. He was punched, kicked, and asked to identify his offenders. He was laughed at while on the cross and was told to come down if he truly was the Son of God.
Despite all the ridicule and insults, Jesus did not lash out, call for a boycott, or cry out about the injustice. He remained silent. He forgave those who were killing him, and then he died.
This is the model that Christ Jesus gave us. In the face of mockery, we endure it. We don’t fight back. Fighting back is the way of the world. If we fight for respect and justice, how are we any different from anyone else?
So how do we respond?
1. Respond with grace. Show kindness and understanding, even when faced with hurtful comments. This reflects the teachings of Jesus about loving others and turning the other cheek.
2. Seek Understanding. Try to understand where the person is coming from. Sometimes, mockery can be a defense mechanism or a result of misunderstandings about the faith.
3. Share Your Perspective. Calmly explain how their comments make you feel and why your faith is important to you. This can open up a dialogue and potentially lead to greater mutual respect.
4. Stay Firm in Your Beliefs. Remain confident in your faith and principles. Sometimes, simply standing firm in your beliefs without getting defensive can be a powerful response.
5. Choose Your Battles. Not every comment needs a response. Sometimes, it’s best to ignore minor jabs and focus on more constructive conversations.
What would not fighting back do?
If we truly understand what Jesus said, that the world will hate us because it hated him first (John 15:18), we would recognize that this kind of attack is to be expected and will likely get worse. However, we must remember that we are called to be the light of the world. Our objective is not self-preservation or maintaining our freedom but moving hearts and minds towards Christ Jesus. This transformation is not achieved through fighting but through sacrifice and giving up ourselves for the sake of our enemies. That is what will move the hearts of those who hate us.
Check out the article: “I HATE CHRISTIANS,” SAYS THE WORLD. HOW TO ADDRESS THIS
Conclusions
Christianity is often mocked for a variety of reasons. We should not respond as the world expects us to. We are not here to fight for our rights but to give them up for the sake of others. It’s a hard teaching, but it aligns with the legacy of Jesus Christ. So, when you face ridicule, don’t fight back. Be silent and forgive them.
