What does the Bible say about good influence?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that believers should use their words, conduct, and relationships to reflect Christ, drawing others toward what is true and good. Titus 2:7 and 1 Timothy 4:12 call Christians to be examples in speech, love, faith, and purity, while Matthew 5:13-16 describes them as salt and light in the world. Good influence is not self-promotion but grateful obedience flowing from God’s grace. Ephesians 4:32 and Colossians 4:6 urge kindness, forgiveness, and gracious speech. At the same time, 1 Corinthians 15:33 warns that harmful companionship can corrupt godly character. Parents and church leaders especially should nurture and guard those entrusted to them, as Proverbs 22:6 and Acts 20:28 teach.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Titus 2:7

    in all things showing yourself an example of good works; in your teaching showing integrity, seriousness, incorruptibility,

  • 1 Timothy 4:12

    Let no man despise your youth; but be an example to those who believe, in word, in your way of life, in love, in spirit, in faith, and in purity.

  • 1 Corinthians 15:33

    Don't be deceived! "Evil companionships corrupt good morals."

  • Matthew 5:16

    Even so, let your light shine before men; that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

  • Ephesians 4:32

    And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God also in Christ forgave you.

  • Colossians 4:6

    Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.

  • 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 22:6

    Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.

  • Colossians 3:17

    Whatever you do, in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father, through him.

  • Acts 20:28

    Take heed, therefore, to yourselves, and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the assembly of the Lord and God which he purchased with his own blood.

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