### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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