Proverbs 19:29

The book of Proverbs gives us insights into so many different areas of life. The book gives us instruction on how to live our lives for God. Here is a proverb that gives us insight about scoffers and fools:

Proverbs 19:29 (NASBStr)

Judgments are prepared for scoffers,

And blows for the back of fools.

Proverbs 19:29 (ESV Strong's)

Condemnation is ready for scoffers,

and beating for the backs of fools.

Solomon has much to say about the correction of fools (See Proverbs 10:13; 18:6; 26:3; 17:10).   It should be noted that, based upon Hebrew parallelism, a scoffer (in the first line) and a fool (in the second line) are the one and the same.   (Solomon does seem to draw some difference between the two ... mostly in this area of how they talk about or speak to God's Word (judgments).   The scoffer/fool may think they can simply deny God's existence (Psalm 53:1) and therefore escape punishment, but such is not true.   This proverb states that judgments are prepared and waiting for them.   Maybe not now, but certain.   The proverb assures they will not only be punished but that the punishment will be harsh.  Solomon uses "blows" to describe the type of punishment.  We do know based upon Proverbs 17:10 that even 100 blows will not change the heart of the fool.   That is based upon the truth that they make a mock of God's Word.  When we mock God's Word we not only show no respect for God we also fail to realize that the way God changes us is through His Word.   So, when fools (scoffers) reject God's Word they also reject the truth and it is the truth that sets you free.   Mock the "rod" of God's word and you get the "rod" of God's wrath.