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What does the Bible say about shame?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that shame is answered not by hiding ourselves, but by trusting in God’s mercy, forgiveness, and restoring grace through Christ. Those who look to the Lord are not put to shame, as Psalm 34:4-5 and Romans 10:11 proclaim. In Christ, believers have no condemnation, for He bore the cross and despised its shame to save His people (Romans 8:1; Hebrews 12:2). God calls the repentant to confess sin, confident that He forgives and cleanses them (1 John 1:9). He also promises to replace His people’s disgrace with honor and joy (Isaiah 61:7; Isaiah 54:4). Yet Jesus warns against being ashamed of Him and His words (Mark 8:38).

Top passages, ranked by readers

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

  • Isaiah 61:7

    Instead of your shame [you shall have] double; and instead of dishonor they shall rejoice in their portion: therefore in their land they shall possess double; everlasting joy shall be to them.

  • Isaiah 50:7

    For the Lord Yahweh will help me; therefore I have not been confounded: therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be disappointed.

  • Psalms 34:4-5

    [4] I sought Yahweh, and he answered me, And delivered me from all my fears. [5] They looked to him, and were radiant. Their faces shall never be covered with shame.

  • 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.

  • Hebrews 12:2

    looking to Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

  • Romans 10:11

    For the Scripture says, "Whoever believes in him will not be disappointed."

  • Romans 8:1

    There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who don't walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.

  • Psalms 31:17

    Let me not be disappointed, Yahweh, for I have called on you. Let the wicked be disappointed. Let them be silent in Sheol.

  • Isaiah 54:4

    Don't be afraid; for you shall not be ashamed: neither be confounded; for you shall not be disappointed: for you shall forget the shame of your youth; and the reproach of your widowhood shall you remember no more.

  • Mark 8:38

    For whoever will be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man also will be ashamed of him, when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels."

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