THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2025

TOPIC: DON’T MOCK AN ELDER

The Spiritual and Practical Consequence of Dishonor

Author: Pastor E. A. Adeboye & Pastor (Mrs) Folu Adeboye

MESSAGE: DON’T MOCK AN ELDER

In an age defined by digital bravado and a blurring of traditional lines of authority, the simple, foundational principle of respecting our elders is often forgotten or discarded. Yet, this principle is not merely a cultural courtesy; it is a profound spiritual law rooted in the very character of God. The Bible is clear on this mandate: “You shall rise up before the gray headed and honor the presence of an old man, and fear your God: I am the LORD” (Leviticus 19:32, NKJV).

This command connects the act of honoring elders directly to the fear of God. Disrespecting an elder, therefore, is not just a breach of etiquette; it is an act of spiritual defiance. The story found in 2 Kings 2 provides one of the most sobering and intense warnings against the folly of mocking an elder, especially one anointed by God. It compels us to reassess our conduct, particularly in this current generation where mockery has become a form of entertainment and digital sport.

1. The Tragedy of Disrespect: The Sons of Bethel

2 Kings 2:23-25

The passage recounts the journey of the prophet Elisha immediately following the miraculous ascension of his master, Elijah. Elisha, now carrying the mantle of divine power, was traveling to the city of Bethel. On the way, he was met by a group of young people, described in some translations as “little children” but often interpreted as young men or teenagers due to the context of the word used and the severity of the subsequent judgment.

These youths saw Elisha and began to mock him, shouting, “Go up, thou bald head; go up, thou bald head.”

The Nature of the Mockery: The insult was twofold. First, they mocked his physical appearance (“bald head”). Second, the challenge “Go up” was a cynical jab at Elisha’s claim to Elijah’s mantle, essentially daring him to ascend to heaven like his master had just done. It was not mere playground teasing; it was a deliberate, collective act of dishonor and contempt directed at the man of God and the divine authority he represented.

The Swift and Severe Consequence: Elisha did not debate or appeal to human authorities. He simply “turned back, and looked on them, and cursed them in the name of the LORD.” The result was instantaneous and terrifying: “There came forth two she bears out of the wood, and tore forty and two children of them.”

This story is one of the most difficult in the Bible, but its message is unmistakable: Mocking an elder, particularly one anointed by God, carries a grave spiritual risk. Those children woke up that morning Hale and hearty, but their life was cut short because they lost their home training and mocked a representative of God. This judgment was meant not just for the forty-two youths, but as a fearful lesson to all generations that follow: God does not tolerate the mocking of those He has set apart, nor the contempt of age and wisdom.

2. The Erosion of Home Training in the Digital Age

The authors reflect on the personal experience of growing up with a strong foundation in respecting elders, noting that even when they were naive and joking, “we did not lose our home training.” This sense of reverence created an immediate, sobering effect in the presence of an older person.

Sadly, this is not the case for many in the current generation. The authors observe a dangerous trend, particularly on social media, where teenagers and youths hide behind their keypads to insult elders through posts.

The Delusion of Anonymity: The internet has created a false sense of courage and anonymity, making it easy for young people to express vitriolic disrespect without facing the immediate, tangible consequences they would in person. This “stupidity,” as the authors rightly call it, blinds them to the spiritual reality that they are not hiding from God.

The Role of Incitement: This culture of contempt is often fueled by irresponsible media. Many bloggers are inciting young people through fake headlines, generating revenue from sensationalism and conflict. Those who read, like, and comment on these disrespectful posts become willing participants in the act of dishonor. The sobering warning is that such bloggers, their readers, and those who like and comment on their posts will be judged by God. Ignorance is no excuse when it comes to the divine law of honor.

The Call to Wisdom: The plea to the youth is simple: “Be wise!” It is wise for you to keep silent over issues you know nothing about or people you do not know. Wisdom dictates that you restrain your fingers and your tongue when tempted to join the chorus of contempt.

3. The Spiritual Foundation of Honor

Why is the principle of honoring elders so important to God? It goes beyond mere social politeness.

It Reflects the Fear of God: As the memory verse states, “You shall rise up before the gray headed and honor the presence of an old man, and fear your God: I am the LORD.” The respect you show to an elder is a tangible demonstration of your reverence for the Almighty. When you honor the aged, you are honoring the God who gave them life, wisdom, and longevity.

It Upholds God’s Appointed Order: God established the principle of authority in families, churches, and communities. The elderly often represent the accumulation of wisdom, experience, and spiritual history. To mock them is to mock the wisdom and experience of life itself.

It Protects Your Destiny: Just as the young men who mocked Elisha paid a terrible price, disrespect invites spiritual resistance and opens the door to judgment. Conversely, those who honor their parents and elders are promised long life and prosperity (Exodus 20:12). Honor is not a burden; it is an act of wisdom that safeguards your destiny and keeps you under the canopy of God’s blessing.

Conclusion

The message is a stark warning and a loving plea. The trend of mocking elders, whether in person or from the supposed safety of a keyboard, is a dangerous path. The story of Elisha and the forty-two children serves as a powerful, permanent reminder that divine justice watches over the principle of honor.

Honour elders at all times. Let your conduct be a visible manifestation of your fear of God. Refuse to participate in the blame game, the ridicule, or the contempt that this current generation often celebrates. Choose silence over slander, respect over ridicule, and blessing over blasphemy. This choice is not just about social manners; it’s about your spiritual well-being and your ultimate fate.

KEY POINT

Honour elders at all times.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Isaiah 57:15-59:21, Philippians 1:1-26

HYMN: 60 – MOST ANCIENT OF ALL MYSTERIES

1 Most ancient of all mysteries,

Before Thy throne we lie;

Have mercy now, most merciful,

Most holy Trinity.

…

6 Most ancient of all mysteries,

Still at thy throne we lie;