What does the Bible say about bad influence?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible warns that sinful company and unchecked influences can corrupt our character, yet God calls His people to live wisely, resist temptation, and shine faithfully in the world. Proverbs 13:20 and Psalm 1:1 commend friendship with the wise rather than companionship that leads into sin, while 1 Corinthians 15:33 plainly warns that bad company corrupts good morals. Believers are not commanded to withdraw from all unbelievers, but 1 Corinthians 5:11 cautions against close fellowship that approves persistent, professed sin. Proverbs 22:24-25 urges distance from angry people, and 1 Peter 5:8 calls for vigilance against the devil. In Christ, God provides a way to endure temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13) and enables His people to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16).
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- 1 Corinthians 15:33
Don't be deceived! "Evil companionships corrupt good morals."
- Proverbs 13:20
One who walks with wise men grows wise, But a companion of fools suffers harm.
- Proverbs 6:27
Can a man scoop fire into his lap, And his clothes not be burned?
- Psalms 1:1
Blessed is the man who doesn't walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the way of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers;
- 1 Corinthians 5:11
But as it is, I wrote to you not to associate with anyone who is called a brother who is a sexual sinner, or covetous, or an idolater, or a slanderer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner. Don't even eat with such a person.
- Matthew 5:13-16
[13] "You are the salt of the earth, but if the salt has lost its flavor, with what will it be salted? It is then good for nothing, but to be cast out and trodden under the feet of men. [14] You are the light of the world. A city located on a hill can't be hidden. [15] Neither do you light a lamp, and put it under a measuring basket, but on a stand; and it shines to all who are in the house. [16] Even so, let your light shine before men; that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
- Proverbs 22:24-25
[24] Don't befriend a hot-tempered man, And don't associate with one who harbors anger: [25] Lest you learn his ways, And ensnare your soul.
- 1 Peter 5:8
Be sober and self-controlled. Be watchful. Your adversary the devil, walks around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
- 1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has taken you except what is common to man. God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able, but will with the temptation also make the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
- Matthew 18:9
If your eye causes you to stumble, pluck it out, and cast it from you. It is better for you to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into the Gehenna of fire.
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