One might think that humour is a trivial topic that is not worth much consideration. For this project, we take humour very seriously. We agree with the doctrine of Brad Stine, and we are not joking.
We are made in the image of God. We can see that this world would be paradise, if it were not marred by sin and the curse. In a similar way we can see part of the image of God in humour that is not perverted and degraded by the ungodly. This godly humour did not come about as a result of the fall. This seems obvious, but it can also be seen in Scripture, for example, when Jesus lists joyous laughter among the blessings from God. Luke 6:21b … Blessed [are ye] that weep now: for ye shall laugh.
Even God jokes around a bit!
Matthew 23:24 [Ye] blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel.
Job 41:5a Wilt thou play with [leviathan] as [with] a bird? …
Humour is a critical part of good mental health and fitness; nutrition and exercise for the mind. It is a powerful defence against despair and pessimism. Levity is a restful break from tragedy and grave thoughts. It is therapeutic for mind, body, soul, and spirit.
Proverbs 17:22a A merry heart doeth good [like] a medicine: …
2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
From the context, who are “us” to whom God has given the spirit of a sound mind? It is those of us who are of unfeigned faith in our Saviour Jesus Christ. As Christians, we won’t shy away from humour in this project, as if it were beneath us, unspiritual, or unclean, yet we will be careful to use it tastefully, and not shamefully. Good humour is not the only ingredient for a sound mind, but it is vital.
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If you read Isaiah 44:14-17 I think you will find that not only does God recommend humor to us as Christians, but that he actually employees not just humor, but sarcasm in Scripture:
[14] He cuts down cedars, or he chooses a cypress tree or an oak and lets it grow strong among the trees of the forest. He plants a cedar and the rain nourishes it. [15] Then it becomes fuel for a man. He takes a part of it and warms himself; he kindles a fire and bakes bread. Also he makes a god and worships it; he makes it an idol and falls down before it. [16] Half of it he burns in the fire. Over the half he eats meat; he roasts it and is satisfied. Also he warms himself and says, “Aha, I am warm, I have seen the fire!” [17] And the rest of it he makes into a god, his idol, and falls down to it and worships it. He prays to it and says, “Deliver me, for you are my god!”
(Isaiah 44:14-17 ESV)
Exactly! Good point! This passage gives us a glimpse of God’s perspective, when He says He will “have them in derision,” speaking of His foes. Thanks Ethan!