We show contempt for the Word of God anytime we consider it beneath consideration on a particular topic to which it speaks. Those last four words are critical. You aren’t despising the Word if you don’t consult it to decide who to start on your fantasy football team. But you might be despising the Word if you’re battling anger, broken relationships, racism, politics, or a host of other things which the Bible actually does speak about.

“Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded.” –Proverbs 13:13

When I hear the word despise I think of my response to broccoli. I use synonyms like hatred, revulsion, intense anger towards, etc. And, yes, I feel that strongly about broccoli. If given the option between losing a finger and eating broccoli I’d very strongly consider how much I’d be impacted by the loss of a phalange.

So when I think of someone despising the Word of God I think of one who has heated disagreement with God’s Word. I picture one who argues and rails against biblical truth. But the word despise doesn’t only mean loathing or hating something. It also means contempt. And contempt is “the feeling that a person or a thing is beneath consideration, worthless, or deserving scorn”. That’s not how I feel about broccoli, that’s how I feel about a show like Basketball Wives LA. I’ve never watched the show, I’ve never thought of watching the show, but can tell from what little exposure I’ve had to the thing that it’s a bunch of meaningless drivel that I wouldn’t consider giving an ounce of my time to. I don’t hate the thing. I just couldn’t care about it.

And that is how many people view the Bible. Sadly, even professing believers. We show contempt for the Word of God anytime we consider it beneath consideration on a particular topic to which it speaks. Those last four words are critical. You aren’t despising the Word if you don’t consult it to decide who to start on your fantasy football team. But you might be despising the Word if you’re battling anger, broken relationships, racism, politics, or a host of other things which the Bible actually does speak about.

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