What does the Bible say about anger and forgiveness?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that anger must be governed by faith and love, while forgiveness reflects the mercy God has shown us in Christ. Ephesians 4:26-27 warns believers not to let anger linger or give the devil an opening, and James 1:19-20 calls us to be slow to anger because human wrath does not produce God’s righteousness. We are to put away bitterness and malice, forgiving one another as God forgave us in Christ (Ephesians 4:31-32). A gentle answer can turn away wrath (Proverbs 15:1), and prayer brings God’s peace amid offense and conflict (Philippians 4:6-7). When wronged, believers should seek humble reconciliation and forgive from the heart.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Ephesians 4:26-27 9 votes
“Be angry, and don’t sin.” Don’t let the sun go down on your wrath, and don’t give place to the devil.
- James 1:19-20 7 votes
So, then, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger; for the anger of man doesn’t produce the righteousness of God.
- Ephesians 4:32 6 votes
And be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving each other, just as God also in Christ forgave you.
- Ephesians 4:31-32 6 votes
Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, outcry, and slander be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving each other, just as God also in Christ forgave you.
- Philippians 4:6-7 4 votes
In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.
- Proverbs 15:1 4 votes
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
- Psalms 37:8 4 votes
Cease from anger, and forsake wrath. Don’t fret; it leads only to evildoing.
- Proverbs 16:32 4 votes
One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty; one who rules his spirit, than he who takes a city.
- Matthew 18:15 3 votes
“If your brother sins against you, go, show him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained back your brother.
- Mark 11:25 3 votes
Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone; so that your Father, who is in heaven, may also forgive you your transgressions.
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