What does the Bible say about calling someone an idiot?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible warns that calling someone an idiot is sinful contempt that dishonors a person made in God's image and violates love for neighbor. In Matthew 5:21-22, Jesus exposes the heart behind angry, insulting speech, showing that words can express the same hatred that leads toward murder. Proverbs 11:12 commends restraint, while Proverbs 12:18 warns that reckless words wound like a sword. Believers are called to put away abusive speech and speak only what builds others up, as Ephesians 4:29 and Colossians 3:8 teach. James 3:9-10 especially rebukes using the tongue to bless God while cursing people. When correction is needed, Christians should speak truth humbly, gently, and for restoration.
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Matthew 5:22
But I tell you, that everyone who is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment; and whoever shall say to his brother, 'Raca!' shall be in danger of the council; and whoever shall say, 'You fool!' shall be in danger of the fire of Gehenna.
- Ephesians 4:29
Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as is good for building up as the need may be, that it may give grace to those who hear.
- James 3:9-10
[9] With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who are made in the image of God. [10] Out of the same mouth comes forth blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.
- Proverbs 11:12
One who despises his neighbor is void of wisdom, But a man of understanding holds his peace.
- James 1:26
If anyone among you thinks himself to be religious while he doesn't bridle his tongue, but deceives his heart, this man's religion is worthless.
- Titus 3:2
to speak evil of no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all humility toward all men.
- Matthew 5:21-22
[21] "You have heard that it was said to the ancient ones, 'You shall not murder;' and 'Whoever shall murder shall be in danger of the judgment.' [22] But I tell you, that everyone who is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment; and whoever shall say to his brother, 'Raca!' shall be in danger of the council; and whoever shall say, 'You fool!' shall be in danger of the fire of Gehenna.
- Colossians 3:8
but now you also put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and shameful speaking out of your mouth.
- 1 Peter 2:1
Putting away therefore all wickedness, all deceit, hypocrisies, envies, and all evil speaking,
- Proverbs 12:18
There is one who speaks rashly like the piercing of a sword, But the tongue of the wise heals.
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