The Greek word empaíktēs, represented by G1703, defines a derider or scoffer. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses. While its base meaning is one who mocks, it carries the strong implication of a false teacher whose derision is aimed at sacred truths.
In the biblical narrative, G1703 is used to identify individuals who will appear in the end times. These figures are characterized not only by their mockery but by their lifestyle. The apostles warned that in the last days, scoffers would come, "walking after their own lusts" 2 Peter 3:3. This theme is echoed in Jude, which states there would be mockers in the last time who would "walk after their own ungodly lusts" Jude 1:18.
Several related words clarify the nature of these scoffers:
- G1939 epithymía (a longing (especially for what is forbidden):--concupiscence, desire, lust (after)): This word is directly linked to the motivation of the scoffers, who are described as following their own lusts (2 Peter 3:3, Jude 1:18).
- G763 asébeia (impiety, i.e. (by implication) wickedness:--ungodly(-liness)): This specifies the nature of their desires. The mockers follow their own "ungodly lusts," rooting their actions in impiety Jude 1:18.
- G3004 légō (to "lay" forth, i.e. (figuratively) relate...say...): This word is used to frame the warning about these figures as a prophecy that was previously told to the believers, emphasizing the apostolic foresight into this form of opposition Jude 1:18.
The theological weight of G1703 lies in its function as a prophetic sign. It marks a specific kind of opposition that believers were told to expect.
- Eschatological Sign: The appearance of mockers and scoffers is explicitly tied to the "last time" and "last days," serving as a marker for the end times (Jude 1:18, 2 Peter 3:3).
- Moral Corruption: The derision of the G1703 is not an intellectual disagreement but an outflow of a corrupt character. Their mockery is the product of a life spent "walking after their own ungodly lusts" Jude 1:18.
- Rejection of Authority: These scoffers follow their own desires rather than divine instruction. This act of following their "own lusts" signifies a deliberate turning away from godly teaching and authority 2 Peter 3:3.
In summary, G1703 is not simply a label for someone who jests. It is a specific theological term identifying a type of false teacher prophesied to appear in the last days. The word connects active derision with a lifestyle of impiety and submission to forbidden desires, serving as a solemn warning about the nature of opposition to the faith.
TRV