What does the Bible say about knowing right from wrong?
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The Bible teaches that right and wrong are defined by God’s holy character and revealed will, not by human preference, and that believers grow in discernment through faith, obedience, and the renewing work of the Holy Spirit. James 4:17 shows that knowingly neglecting what is right is sin, while Mark 7:20-23 locates evil in the sinful human heart. Hebrews 5:14 calls Christians to mature discernment through practiced obedience, and Micah 6:8 summarizes God’s call to justice, mercy, and humble walking with him. Yet Scripture also offers hope: 1 John 1:9 promises forgiveness and cleansing to those who confess their sins through Christ.
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- James 4:17
To him therefore who knows to do good, and doesn't do it, to him it is sin.
- Mark 7:20-23
[20] He said, "That which proceeds out of the man, that defiles the man. [21] For from within, out of the hearts of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, sexual sins, murders, thefts, [22] covetings, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, and foolishness. [23] All these evil things come from within, and defile the man."
- 1 Corinthians 15:33
Don't be deceived! "Evil companionships corrupt good morals."
- 1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
- Matthew 26:41
Watch and pray, that you don't enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
- Hebrews 5:14
But solid food is for those who are full grown, who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern good and evil.
- Micah 6:8
He has shown you, O man, what is good. What does Yahweh require of you, but to act justly, To love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?
- 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 6:9-11
[9] Or don't you know that the unrighteous will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don't be deceived. Neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor male prostitutes, nor homosexuals, [10] nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor slanderers, nor extortioners, will inherit the Kingdom of God. [11] Such were some of you, but you were washed. But you were sanctified. But you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and in the Spirit of our God.
- Matthew 7:12
Therefore whatever you desire for men to do to you, you shall also do to them; for this is the law and the prophets.
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