What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion? In this comprehensive guide, we will dive deep into the concept of pure/true religion. We will explore the fundamental principles, beliefs, and practices that define true religion, highlighting the key differences between various religious systems. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of what true religion entails and how it can shape our lives.
Religion is a universal aspect of human culture, with more than 90% of the world’s population adhering to some form of religious belief. However, the sheer diversity of religions raises an important question: What is true religion? Is there a singular path that leads to spiritual fulfillment and a meaningful connection with the Divine? In this article, we will embark on a journey to explore the essence of true religion and uncover its core principles.
What the Bible Says About Pure Religion
From a Biblical Perspective
The Nature of Religion
Religion can be defined in various ways, often encompassing belief in a higher power, worship practices, a code of ethics, and a quest for salvation or enlightenment. Different religions emphasize different elements, such as rules or rituals, as the means to achieve spiritual fulfillment. For example, Islam has the Five Pillars, Buddhism follows the Eight Noble Truths, and Judaism adheres to the Law of Moses. These practices form the foundation of their respective religious systems.
The Unique Perspective of Christianity
While many religions emphasize rituals and adherence to specific rules, Christianity offers a distinct approach centered on a personal relationship with God. In Christian belief, no amount of human effort can earn salvation or reconcile a person with a perfect God. The Bible teaches that all humanity has fallen short of God’s glory and is in need of redemption (Romans 3:23). Without divine intervention, the consequences of sin lead to eternal separation from God (Romans 6:23).
The Solution: Jesus Christ
True religion, according to biblical Christianity, centers on the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus, both fully God and fully human, came to earth to offer Himself as a sacrificial substitute for humanity’s sins (Romans 5:8). The core principle of Christianity is that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ. By confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in His resurrection, individuals can experience forgiveness of sins and receive eternal life (Romans 10:9). The term “true religion” refers to the essence of a genuine relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
Relationship Over Rituals
Unlike other religions that rely heavily on rituals and rules, true religion in Christianity emphasizes a transformed heart and a personal relationship with God. While there are moral guidelines to follow, these are not the foundation of salvation but rather the result of a genuine relationship with Jesus. True religion is marked by gratitude for God’s grace and a desire to grow closer to Him.
The Manifestation of True Religion
True religion encompasses more than a set of rituals or adherence to rules. It is a way of life that reflects the transformation brought about by a relationship with Jesus Christ. James, in his epistle, provides valuable insights into the manifestation of true religion. He emphasizes the importance of compassionate service to others, particularly the marginalized and vulnerable (James 1:27).
Love and Compassion in True Religion
James highlights the significance of love and compassion in true religion. Pure religion is not confined to acts of worship or religious ceremonies but extends to practical expressions of love and care for others. Visiting the fatherless and widows in their affliction represents a tangible way to demonstrate God’s love and reflect His character. True religion is about being a vessel of God’s love and extending that love to those in need.
Freedom from Worldly Influence
Another aspect of true religion is the pursuit of holiness and freedom from the pollutions of the world. Christians are called to live in accordance with God’s principles and to resist conforming to worldly values (Romans 12:2). True religion involves striving to live a life that is unspotted by the corruption and immorality prevalent in society.
The Path to True Religion
To embark on the path of true religion, one must first acknowledge their need for a savior. Recognizing personal sin and the inability to earn salvation through works is the initial step towards embracing true religion. Accepting Jesus Christ as the Son of God who died for our sins and rose from the dead is the foundation of true faith. It is not through rituals or religious acts alone but through a personal relationship with Jesus that true religion is realized.
Conclusion: Embracing True Religion
In conclusion, true religion transcends rituals and rules. It is a dynamic relationship with the divine, centered on faith in Jesus Christ. True religion involves a transformed heart, characterized by love, compassion, and the pursuit of holiness. It is not about earning salvation through works but about receiving God’s grace and responding with a life of gratitude and service. By embracing true religion, we find purpose, fulfillment, and eternal life in a loving relationship with our Creator.
What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion?
James 1:26-27 If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless. Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.
Acts 10:35 But in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Ecclesiastes 12:13 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.
Group 1 – What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion
Isaiah 53:9 And they made his grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death, although he had done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth.
Ephesians 5:11-16 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, …
James 1:27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.
Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
Deuteronomy 10:12-13 “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the Lord, which I am commanding you today for your good?
Group 2 – What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion
Deuteronomy 18:15 “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your brothers—it is to him you shall listen—
2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!
Ephesians 4:26 Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger,
John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 8:58 Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.”
Psalm 82:6 I said, “You are gods, sons of the Most High, all of you;
Leviticus 19:31 “Do not turn to mediums or necromancers; do not seek them out, and so make yourselves unclean by them: I am the Lord your God.
Group 3 – What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion
Isaiah 58:7 Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?
Isaiah 1:17 Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.
1 Peter 3:15 But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,
Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
John 15:9-17 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. …
Group 4 – What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion
Revelation 1:1-20 The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, who bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw. Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near. John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits who are before his throne, and from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth. …
Revelation 1:1 The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John,
1 John 3:8 Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.
Group 5 – What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion
1 John 2:1-29 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: …
1 Peter 3:8-12 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. For “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
Group 6 – What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion
1 Peter 1:15 But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct,
2 Peter 1:4 By which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.
James 4:4 You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.
1 Peter 2:1-25 So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good. As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. …
Group 7 – What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion
Hebrews 13:1-25 Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body. Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” …
James 2:1-26 My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him? …
Group 8 – What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion
Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
2 Timothy 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.
Hebrews 11:6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
Colossians 3:11 Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.
Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Colossians 2:8 See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.
Group 9 – What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion
Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
John 17:3 And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.
Acts 2:44-45 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.
John 13:35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
John 3:16-17 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
Group 10 – What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion
Matthew 24:1-51 Jesus left the temple and was going away, when his disciples came to point out to him the buildings of the temple. But he answered them, “You see all these, do you not? Truly, I say to you, there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray. …
Isaiah 1:23 Your princes are rebels and companions of thieves. Everyone loves a bribe and runs after gifts. They do not bring justice to the fatherless, and the widow’s cause does not come to them.
Psalm 146:9 The Lord watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.
Deuteronomy 14:29 And the Levite, because he has no portion or inheritance with you, and the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow, who are within your towns, shall come and eat and be filled, that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands that you do.
Group 11 – What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion
Galatians 6:16 And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.
2 Thessalonians 2:10 And with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved.
Galatians 5:22-25 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.
2 Timothy 3:5 Having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.
James 1:26 If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.
2 Peter 2:20 For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first.
Group 12 – What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion
Acts 17:23-28 For as I passed along and observed the objects of your worship, I found also an altar with this inscription: ‘To the unknown god.’ What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you. The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything. And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, that they should seek God, and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us, …
John 8:32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Acts 17:10-11 The brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea, and when they arrived they went into the Jewish synagogue. Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.
Group 13 – What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion
Matthew 25:36 I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’
Matthew 28:19-20 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
John 3:1-36 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. …
Group 14 – What Does the Bible Say About Pure Religion
Isaiah 1:1-31 The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth; for the Lord has spoken: “Children have I reared and brought up, but they have rebelled against me. The ox knows its owner, and the donkey its master’s crib, but Israel does not know, my people do not understand.” Ah, sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, offspring of evildoers, children who deal corruptly! They have forsaken the Lord, they have despised the Holy One of Israel, they are utterly estranged. Why will you still be struck down? Why will you continue to rebel? The whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint. …
Psalm 82:3 Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute.
Matthew 22:37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.
Matthew 23:23 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.
Discover Bible Verses About True Religion. In this comprehensive guide, we will dive deep into the concept of true religion. We will explore the fundamental principles, beliefs, and practices that define true religion, highlighting the key differences between various religious systems. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of what true religion entails and how it can shape our lives.
Religion is a universal aspect of human culture, with more than 90% of the world’s population adhering to some form of religious belief. However, the sheer diversity of religions raises an important question: What is true religion? Is there a singular path that leads to spiritual fulfillment and a meaningful connection with the Divine? In this article, we will embark on a journey to explore the essence of true religion and uncover its core principles.
Bible Verses About True Religion
From a Biblical Perspective
The Nature of Religion
Religion can be defined in various ways, often encompassing belief in a higher power, worship practices, a code of ethics, and a quest for salvation or enlightenment. Different religions emphasize different elements, such as rules or rituals, as the means to achieve spiritual fulfillment. For example, Islam has the Five Pillars, Buddhism follows the Eight Noble Truths, and Judaism adheres to the Law of Moses. These practices form the foundation of their respective religious systems.
The Unique Perspective of Christianity
While many religions emphasize rituals and adherence to specific rules, Christianity offers a distinct approach centered on a personal relationship with God. In Christian belief, no amount of human effort can earn salvation or reconcile a person with a perfect God. The Bible teaches that all humanity has fallen short of God’s glory and is in need of redemption (Romans 3:23). Without divine intervention, the consequences of sin lead to eternal separation from God (Romans 6:23).
The Solution: Jesus Christ
True religion, according to biblical Christianity, centers on the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus, both fully God and fully human, came to earth to offer Himself as a sacrificial substitute for humanity’s sins (Romans 5:8). The core principle of Christianity is that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ. By confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in His resurrection, individuals can experience forgiveness of sins and receive eternal life (Romans 10:9). The term “true religion” refers to the essence of a genuine relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
Relationship Over Rituals
Unlike other religions that rely heavily on rituals and rules, true religion in Christianity emphasizes a transformed heart and a personal relationship with God. While there are moral guidelines to follow, these are not the foundation of salvation but rather the result of a genuine relationship with Jesus. True religion is marked by gratitude for God’s grace and a desire to grow closer to Him.
The Manifestation of True Religion
True religion encompasses more than a set of rituals or adherence to rules. It is a way of life that reflects the transformation brought about by a relationship with Jesus Christ. James, in his epistle, provides valuable insights into the manifestation of true religion. He emphasizes the importance of compassionate service to others, particularly the marginalized and vulnerable (James 1:27).
Love and Compassion in True Religion
James highlights the significance of love and compassion in true religion. Pure religion is not confined to acts of worship or religious ceremonies but extends to practical expressions of love and care for others. Visiting the fatherless and widows in their affliction represents a tangible way to demonstrate God’s love and reflect His character. True religion is about being a vessel of God’s love and extending that love to those in need.
Freedom from Worldly Influence
Another aspect of true religion is the pursuit of holiness and freedom from the pollutions of the world. Christians are called to live in accordance with God’s principles and to resist conforming to worldly values (Romans 12:2). True religion involves striving to live a life that is unspotted by the corruption and immorality prevalent in society.
The Path to True Religion
To embark on the path of true religion, one must first acknowledge their need for a savior. Recognizing personal sin and the inability to earn salvation through works is the initial step towards embracing true religion. Accepting Jesus Christ as the Son of God who died for our sins and rose from the dead is the foundation of true faith. It is not through rituals or religious acts alone but through a personal relationship with Jesus that true religion is realized.
Conclusion: Embracing True Religion
In conclusion, true religion transcends rituals and rules. It is a dynamic relationship with the divine, centered on faith in Jesus Christ. True religion involves a transformed heart, characterized by love, compassion, and the pursuit of holiness. It is not about earning salvation through works but about receiving God’s grace and responding with a life of gratitude and service. By embracing true religion, we find purpose, fulfillment, and eternal life in a loving relationship with our Creator.
Bible Verses About True Religion
James 1:26-27 If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless. Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.
Acts 10:35 But in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Ecclesiastes 12:13 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.
Group 1 – Bible Verses About True Religion
Isaiah 53:9 And they made his grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death, although he had done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth.
Ephesians 5:11-16 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, …
James 1:27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.
Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
Deuteronomy 10:12-13 “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the Lord, which I am commanding you today for your good?
Group 2 – Bible Verses About True Religion
John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 8:58 Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.”
Psalm 82:6 I said, “You are gods, sons of the Most High, all of you;
Leviticus 19:31 “Do not turn to mediums or necromancers; do not seek them out, and so make yourselves unclean by them: I am the Lord your God.
Deuteronomy 18:15 “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your brothers—it is to him you shall listen—
2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!
Ephesians 4:26 Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger,
Group 3 – Bible Verses About True Religion
Isaiah 58:7 Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?
Isaiah 1:17 Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.
1 Peter 3:15 But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,
Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
John 15:9-17 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. …
Group 4 – Bible Verses About True Religion
Revelation 1:1-20 The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, who bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw. Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near. John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits who are before his throne, and from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth. …
Revelation 1:1 The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John,
1 John 3:8 Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.
Group 5 – Bible Verses About True Religion
1 John 2:1-29 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: …
1 Peter 3:8-12 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. For “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
Group 6 – Bible Verses About True Religion
1 Peter 2:1-25 So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good. As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. …
1 Peter 1:15 But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct,
2 Peter 1:4 By which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.
James 4:4 You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.
Group 7 – Bible Verses About True Religion
Hebrews 13:1-25 Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body. Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” …
James 2:1-26 My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him? …
Group 8 – Bible Verses About True Religion
Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
2 Timothy 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.
Hebrews 11:6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
Colossians 3:11 Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.
Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Colossians 2:8 See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.
Group 9 – Bible Verses About True Religion
John 13:35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
John 3:16-17 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
John 17:3 And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.
Acts 2:44-45 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.
Group 10 – Bible Verses About True Religion
Matthew 24:1-51 Jesus left the temple and was going away, when his disciples came to point out to him the buildings of the temple. But he answered them, “You see all these, do you not? Truly, I say to you, there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray. …
Isaiah 1:23 Your princes are rebels and companions of thieves. Everyone loves a bribe and runs after gifts. They do not bring justice to the fatherless, and the widow’s cause does not come to them.
Psalm 146:9 The Lord watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.
Deuteronomy 14:29 And the Levite, because he has no portion or inheritance with you, and the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow, who are within your towns, shall come and eat and be filled, that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands that you do.
Group 11 – Bible Verses About True Religion
Galatians 6:16 And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.
2 Thessalonians 2:10 And with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved.
Galatians 5:22-25 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.
2 Timothy 3:5 Having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.
James 1:26 If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.
2 Peter 2:20 For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first.
Group 12 – Bible Verses About True Religion
John 8:32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Acts 17:10-11 The brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea, and when they arrived they went into the Jewish synagogue. Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.
Acts 17:23-28 For as I passed along and observed the objects of your worship, I found also an altar with this inscription: ‘To the unknown god.’ What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you. The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything. And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, that they should seek God, and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us, …
Group 13 – Bible Verses About True Religion
Matthew 25:36 I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’
Matthew 28:19-20 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
John 3:1-36 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. …
Group 14 – Bible Verses About True Religion
Psalm 82:3 Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute.
Matthew 22:37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.
Matthew 23:23 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.
Isaiah 1:1-31 The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth; for the Lord has spoken: “Children have I reared and brought up, but they have rebelled against me. The ox knows its owner, and the donkey its master’s crib, but Israel does not know, my people do not understand.” Ah, sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, offspring of evildoers, children who deal corruptly! They have forsaken the Lord, they have despised the Holy One of Israel, they are utterly estranged. Why will you still be struck down? Why will you continue to rebel? The whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint. …
What is True Religion? In this comprehensive guide, we will dive deep into the concept of true religion. We will explore the fundamental principles, beliefs, and practices that define true religion, highlighting the key differences between various religious systems. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of what true religion entails and how it can shape our lives.
Religion is a universal aspect of human culture, with more than 90% of the world’s population adhering to some form of religious belief. However, the sheer diversity of religions raises an important question: What is true religion? Is there a singular path that leads to spiritual fulfillment and a meaningful connection with the Divine? In this article, we will embark on a journey to explore the essence of true religion and uncover its core principles.
True Religion
From a Biblical Perspective
The Nature of Religion
Religion can be defined in various ways, often encompassing belief in a higher power, worship practices, a code of ethics, and a quest for salvation or enlightenment. Different religions emphasize different elements, such as rules or rituals, as the means to achieve spiritual fulfillment. For example, Islam has the Five Pillars, Buddhism follows the Eight Noble Truths, and Judaism adheres to the Law of Moses. These practices form the foundation of their respective religious systems.
The Unique Perspective of Christianity
While many religions emphasize rituals and adherence to specific rules, Christianity offers a distinct approach centered on a personal relationship with God. In Christian belief, no amount of human effort can earn salvation or reconcile a person with a perfect God. The Bible teaches that all humanity has fallen short of God’s glory and is in need of redemption (Romans 3:23). Without divine intervention, the consequences of sin lead to eternal separation from God (Romans 6:23).
The Solution: Jesus Christ
True religion, according to biblical Christianity, centers on the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus, both fully God and fully human, came to earth to offer Himself as a sacrificial substitute for humanity’s sins (Romans 5:8). The core principle of Christianity is that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ. By confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in His resurrection, individuals can experience forgiveness of sins and receive eternal life (Romans 10:9). The term “true religion” refers to the essence of a genuine relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
Relationship Over Rituals
Unlike other religions that rely heavily on rituals and rules, true religion in Christianity emphasizes a transformed heart and a personal relationship with God. While there are moral guidelines to follow, these are not the foundation of salvation but rather the result of a genuine relationship with Jesus. True religion is marked by gratitude for God’s grace and a desire to grow closer to Him.
The Manifestation of True Religion
True religion encompasses more than a set of rituals or adherence to rules. It is a way of life that reflects the transformation brought about by a relationship with Jesus Christ. James, in his epistle, provides valuable insights into the manifestation of true religion. He emphasizes the importance of compassionate service to others, particularly the marginalized and vulnerable (James 1:27).
Love and Compassion in True Religion
James highlights the significance of love and compassion in true religion. Pure religion is not confined to acts of worship or religious ceremonies but extends to practical expressions of love and care for others. Visiting the fatherless and widows in their affliction represents a tangible way to demonstrate God’s love and reflect His character. True religion is about being a vessel of God’s love and extending that love to those in need.
Freedom from Worldly Influence
Another aspect of true religion is the pursuit of holiness and freedom from the pollutions of the world. Christians are called to live in accordance with God’s principles and to resist conforming to worldly values (Romans 12:2). True religion involves striving to live a life that is unspotted by the corruption and immorality prevalent in society.
The Path to True Religion
To embark on the path of true religion, one must first acknowledge their need for a savior. Recognizing personal sin and the inability to earn salvation through works is the initial step towards embracing true religion. Accepting Jesus Christ as the Son of God who died for our sins and rose from the dead is the foundation of true faith. It is not through rituals or religious acts alone but through a personal relationship with Jesus that true religion is realized.
Conclusion: Embracing True Religion
In conclusion, true religion transcends rituals and rules. It is a dynamic relationship with the divine, centered on faith in Jesus Christ. True religion involves a transformed heart, characterized by love, compassion, and the pursuit of holiness. It is not about earning salvation through works but about receiving God’s grace and responding with a life of gratitude and service. By embracing true religion, we find purpose, fulfillment, and eternal life in a loving relationship with our Creator.
What is True Religion?
James 1:26-27 If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless. Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.
Acts 10:35 But in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Ecclesiastes 12:13 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.
Group 1 – What is True Religion
James 1:27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.
Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
Deuteronomy 10:12-13 “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the Lord, which I am commanding you today for your good?
Isaiah 53:9 And they made his grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death, although he had done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth.
Ephesians 5:11-16 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, …
Group 2 – What is True Religion
John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 8:58 Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.”
Psalm 82:6 I said, “You are gods, sons of the Most High, all of you;
Leviticus 19:31 “Do not turn to mediums or necromancers; do not seek them out, and so make yourselves unclean by them: I am the Lord your God.
Deuteronomy 18:15 “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your brothers—it is to him you shall listen—
2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!
Ephesians 4:26 Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger,
Group 3 – What is True Religion
Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
John 15:9-17 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. …
Isaiah 58:7 Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?
Isaiah 1:17 Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.
1 Peter 3:15 But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,
Group 4 – What is True Religion
Revelation 1:1 The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John,
1 John 3:8 Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.
Revelation 1:1-20 The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, who bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw. Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near. John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits who are before his throne, and from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth. …
Group 5 – What is True Religion
1 John 2:1-29 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: …
1 Peter 3:8-12 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. For “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
Group 6 – What is True Religion
1 Peter 1:15 But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct,
2 Peter 1:4 By which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.
James 4:4 You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.
1 Peter 2:1-25 So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good. As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. …
Group 7 – What is True Religion
James 2:1-26 My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him? …
Hebrews 13:1-25 Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body. Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” …
Group 8 – What is True Religion
Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
2 Timothy 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.
Hebrews 11:6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
Colossians 3:11 Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.
Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Colossians 2:8 See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.
Group 9 – What is True Religion
Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
John 17:3 And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.
Acts 2:44-45 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.
John 13:35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
John 3:16-17 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
Group 10 – What is True Religion
Isaiah 1:23 Your princes are rebels and companions of thieves. Everyone loves a bribe and runs after gifts. They do not bring justice to the fatherless, and the widow’s cause does not come to them.
Psalm 146:9 The Lord watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.
Deuteronomy 14:29 And the Levite, because he has no portion or inheritance with you, and the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow, who are within your towns, shall come and eat and be filled, that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands that you do.
Matthew 24:1-51 Jesus left the temple and was going away, when his disciples came to point out to him the buildings of the temple. But he answered them, “You see all these, do you not? Truly, I say to you, there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray. …
Group 11 – What is True Religion
2 Timothy 3:5 Having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.
James 1:26 If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.
2 Peter 2:20 For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first.
Galatians 6:16 And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.
2 Thessalonians 2:10 And with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved.
Galatians 5:22-25 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.
Group 12 – What is True Religion
John 8:32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Acts 17:10-11 The brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea, and when they arrived they went into the Jewish synagogue. Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.
Acts 17:23-28 For as I passed along and observed the objects of your worship, I found also an altar with this inscription: ‘To the unknown god.’ What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you. The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything. And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, that they should seek God, and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us, …
Group 13 – What is True Religion
Matthew 25:36 I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’
Matthew 28:19-20 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
John 3:1-36 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. …
Group 14 – What is True Religion
Psalm 82:3 Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute.
Matthew 22:37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.
Matthew 23:23 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.
Isaiah 1:1-31 The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth; for the Lord has spoken: “Children have I reared and brought up, but they have rebelled against me. The ox knows its owner, and the donkey its master’s crib, but Israel does not know, my people do not understand.” Ah, sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, offspring of evildoers, children who deal corruptly! They have forsaken the Lord, they have despised the Holy One of Israel, they are utterly estranged. Why will you still be struck down? Why will you continue to rebel? The whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint. …
Discover Bible Verses About Impiety. In our quest for understanding the concept of impiety and its implications, it is essential to turn to the ultimate source of wisdom and guidance—the Bible. The Scriptures offer profound insights into the nature of impiety, its consequences, and the path to redemption. Let us explore what the Bible says about impiety and what it truly means to be impious.
Bible Verses About Impiety
From a Biblical Perspective
The Definition of Impiety
Impiety, as described in the Bible, refers to a lack of reverence and faithlessness concerning the things of God. It is the opposite of piety, which entails having deep respect and devotion to spiritual matters. When the Bible speaks of ungodliness or wickedness, it is essentially referring to impiety. This concept is present throughout the New Testament Epistles, often translated as “ungodliness” or “wickedness” in different versions of the Bible.
The Origin of Impiety
The roots of impiety can be traced back to the fallen nature of humanity. From the moment of the fall in the Garden of Eden, mankind has been prone to descending into wickedness and irreverence towards God. The first instances of impiety can be seen in the stories of Cain and Lamech in the book of Genesis. Cain displayed impiety by offering an unacceptable sacrifice to the Lord and demanding acceptance. Lamech, a few generations later, committed an impious act by boasting about killing a man. These early examples highlight the innate tendency towards impiety in human nature.
The Pervasiveness of Impiety
Throughout history, impiety has continued to grow and permeate societies. The Bible paints a bleak picture of the state of humanity in Noah’s time, where “every intention of the thoughts of [man’s] heart was only evil continually” (Genesis 6:5). This widespread impiety eventually led to the great flood as a divine response to humanity’s wickedness. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of unchecked impiety and its destructive impact on individuals and societies.
Impiety as Violation of God’s Commands
Impiety is not limited to individual acts but encompasses the violation of all the commands of God, summarized in the greatest commandments to love God and others (Matthew 22:37-40). It is a rebellion against the very nature and character of God. The Bible warns of the wrath of God against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness (Romans 1:18). Impiety encompasses all crimes committed against God and against one another, reflecting a disregard for the moral principles established by God.
The Consequences of Impiety
The Bible affirms that all individuals, being sinners, are guilty before God of impiety and deserving of His wrath. Impiety separates us from the presence of God and hinders our relationship with Him. However, the Scriptures also reveal the profound love and grace of God, who provided a means for humanity to escape His wrath.
God’s Love and Grace
God, in His love and grace, sent His Son Jesus Christ as the ultimate sacrifice for our impiety. Jesus, the Holy One of God, died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins, even though He Himself was without sin. Through faith in Christ, we can be declared righteous, as God exchanges our sin for the righteousness of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21). This act of sacrificial love demonstrates God’s desire to redeem impious humanity and restore our relationship with Him.
Escaping Impiety through Faith
Through the grace of God, we are empowered to reject impiety and live a life characterized by true piety, reverence, and devotion to God. Those who accept the sacrifice of Jesus Christ by faith are no longer subject to the wrath of God but have the blessed hope of eternal life in His presence (1 Thessalonians 5:9). The indwelling of the Holy Spirit enables believers to live in a godly manner and resist the temptations of impiety (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Living a Godly Life
Saved by grace, we are called to live sober, righteous, and godly lives in the present age, eagerly anticipating the glorious return of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ (Titus 2:11-12). As followers of Christ, we are to reject all forms of impiety and align our lives with God’s nature and commands. The presence of the Spirit within us empowers us to live in a manner that reflects true piety and brings glory to God.
Conclusion
Impiety, the lack of reverence and faithlessness towards God, is a pervasive problem in human nature. However, the Bible offers hope and redemption through the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. Through faith in Him, we can escape the wrath of God and live a life characterized by true piety, reverence, and devotion. Let us strive to reject all forms of impiety and embrace a godly life, empowered by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Bible Verses About Impiety
Romans 1:18-32 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, …
John 6:53 So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.
2 Corinthians 4:2 But we have renounced disgraceful, underhanded ways. We refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God’s word, but by the open statement of the truth we would commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God.
Romans 5:12 Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned—
Group 1 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Exodus 20:13 “You shall not murder.
Revelation 21:27 But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s book of life.
John 3:16-17 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
Isaiah 1:1-31 The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth; for the Lord has spoken: “Children have I reared and brought up, but they have rebelled against me. The ox knows its owner, and the donkey its master’s crib, but Israel does not know, my people do not understand.” Ah, sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, offspring of evildoers, children who deal corruptly! They have forsaken the Lord, they have despised the Holy One of Israel, they are utterly estranged. Why will you still be struck down? Why will you continue to rebel? The whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint. …
Group 2 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Revelation 14:1-20 Then I looked, and behold, on Mount Zion stood the Lamb, and with him 144,000 who had his name and his Father’s name written on their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven like the roar of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder. The voice I heard was like the sound of harpists playing on their harps, and they were singing a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and before the elders. No one could learn that song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth. It is these who have not defiled themselves with women, for they are virgins. It is these who follow the Lamb wherever he goes. These have been redeemed from mankind as firstfruits for God and the Lamb, and in their mouth no lie was found, for they are blameless. …
Revelation 21:8 But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.”
Genesis 3:19 By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
Revelation 19:18 To eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of captains, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and their riders, and the flesh of all men, both free and slave, both small and great.”
Group 3 – Bible Verses About Impiety
1 John 5:1-21 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father loves whoever has been born of him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome. For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? …
Jude 1:7 Just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.
Revelation 17:16 And the ten horns that you saw, they and the beast will hate the prostitute. They will make her desolate and naked, and devour her flesh and burn her up with fire,
1 John 4:17-18 By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.
Group 4 – Bible Verses About Impiety
2 Peter 2:1-22 But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed. And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep. For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to chains of gloomy darkness to be kept until the judgment; if he did not spare the ancient world, but preserved Noah, a herald of righteousness, with seven others, when he brought a flood upon the world of the ungodly; …
1 Peter 2:11 Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.
1 John 2:6 Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
2 Peter 1:4 By which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.
Group 5 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Hebrews 13:4 Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.
Hebrews 9:1 Now even the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly place of holiness.
Titus 2:12 Training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age,
James 1:27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.
James 1:14-15 But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.
Hebrews 13:21 Equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Group 6 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Galatians 1:4 Who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father,
Galatians 5:19-21 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Titus 1:16 They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work.
1 Thessalonians 4:7 For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness.
Galatians 5:24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
Galatians 5:15 But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another.
2 Corinthians 7:1 Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God.
Group 7 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Romans 14:2 One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables.
Romans 11:26 And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written, “The Deliverer will come from Zion, he will banish ungodliness from Jacob”;
Acts 2:38 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
1 Corinthians 6:12 “All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything.
2 Corinthians 5:1 For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
1 Corinthians 15:32 What do I gain if, humanly speaking, I fought with beasts at Ephesus? If the dead are not raised, “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.”
Group 8 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Romans 6:1-23 What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. …
Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.
Romans 6:19 I am speaking in human terms, because of your natural limitations. For just as you once presented your members as slaves to impurity and to lawlessness leading to more lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness leading to sanctification.
Acts 3:26 God, having raised up his servant, sent him to you first, to bless you by turning every one of you from your wickedness.”
Group 9 – Bible Verses About Impiety
John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
John 6:58 This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like the bread the fathers ate, and died. Whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.”
Luke 9:23 And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.
John 6:57 As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever feeds on me, he also will live because of me.
Romans 1:18-16:27 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, …
Group 10 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Luke 16:1-31 He also said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his possessions. And he called him and said to him, ‘What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your management, for you can no longer be manager.’ And the manager said to himself, ‘What shall I do, since my master is taking the management away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. I have decided what to do, so that when I am removed from management, people may receive me into their houses.’ So, summoning his master’s debtors one by one, he said to the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ …
John 6:54 Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.
Luke 10:25-37 And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” He said to him, “What is written in the Law? How do you read it?” And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” And he said to him, “You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live.” But he, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” …
Group 11 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Mark 10:17-31 And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother.’” And he said to him, “Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth.” And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” …
Mark 8:34-38 And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul? For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.”
Group 12 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Matthew 13:1-58 That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat down. And the whole crowd stood on the beach. And he told them many things in parables, saying: “A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and immediately they sprang up, since they had no depth of soil, …
John 1:3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.
Matthew 25:31-46 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, …
Group 13 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Matthew 7:13-23 “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. …
Matthew 19:17 And he said to him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments.”
Matthew 19:14 But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.”
Habakkuk 3:14 You pierced with his own arrows the heads of his warriors, who came like a whirlwind to scatter me, rejoicing as if to devour the poor in secret.
Matthew 12:36-37 I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”
Group 14 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Lamentations 2:20 Look, O Lord, and see! With whom have you dealt thus? Should women eat the fruit of their womb, the children of their tender care? Should priest and prophet be killed in the sanctuary of the Lord?
Ezekiel 33:25 Therefore say to them, Thus says the Lord God: You eat flesh with the blood and lift up your eyes to your idols and shed blood; shall you then possess the land?
Ezekiel 18:31 Cast away from you all the transgressions that you have committed, and make yourselves a new heart and a new spirit! Why will you die, O house of Israel?
Ezekiel 39:19 And you shall eat fat till you are filled, and drink blood till you are drunk, at the sacrificial feast that I am preparing for you.
Ezekiel 39:18 You shall eat the flesh of the mighty, and drink the blood of the princes of the earth—of rams, of lambs, and of he-goats, of bulls, all of them fat beasts of Bashan.
Matthew 1:21 She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”
Ezekiel 39:4 You shall fall on the mountains of Israel, you and all your hordes and the peoples who are with you. I will give you to birds of prey of every sort and to the beasts of the field to be devoured.
Group 15 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Jeremiah 34:20 And I will give them into the hand of their enemies and into the hand of those who seek their lives. Their dead bodies shall be food for the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth.
Jeremiah 29:11-13 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.
Ezekiel 12:19 And say to the people of the land, Thus says the Lord God concerning the inhabitants of Jerusalem in the land of Israel: They shall eat their bread with anxiety, and drink water in dismay. In this way her land will be stripped of all it contains, on account of the violence of all those who dwell in it.
Ezekiel 5:10 Therefore fathers shall eat their sons in your midst, and sons shall eat their fathers. And I will execute judgments on you, and any of you who survive I will scatter to all the winds.
Group 16 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Jeremiah 15:3 I will appoint over them four kinds of destroyers, declares the Lord: the sword to kill, the dogs to tear, and the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth to devour and destroy.
Jeremiah 7:33 And the dead bodies of this people will be food for the birds of the air, and for the beasts of the earth, and none will frighten them away.
Isaiah 49:5 And now the Lord says, he who formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob back to him; and that Israel might be gathered to him— for I am honored in the eyes of the Lord, and my God has become my strength—
Jeremiah 16:4 They shall die of deadly diseases. They shall not be lamented, nor shall they be buried. They shall be as dung on the surface of the ground. They shall perish by the sword and by famine, and their dead bodies shall be food for the birds of the air and for the beasts of the earth.
Isaiah 65:25 The wolf and the lamb shall graze together; the lion shall eat straw like the ox, and dust shall be the serpent’s food. They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain,” says the Lord.
Group 17 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Isaiah 36:12 But the Rabshakeh said, “Has my master sent me to speak these words to your master and to you, and not to the men sitting on the wall, who are doomed with you to eat their own dung and drink their own urine?”
Isaiah 9:20 They slice meat on the right, but are still hungry, and they devour on the left, but are not satisfied; each devours the flesh of his own arm,
Proverbs 30:14 There are those whose teeth are swords, whose fangs are knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, the needy from among mankind.
Isaiah 49:1 Listen to me, O coastlands, and give attention, you peoples from afar. The Lord called me from the womb, from the body of my mother he named my name.
Isaiah 44:2 Thus says the Lord who made you, who formed you from the womb and will help you: Fear not, O Jacob my servant, Jeshurun whom I have chosen.
Ecclesiastes 11:9 Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes. But know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment.
Proverbs 23:6 Do not eat the bread of a man who is stingy; do not desire his delicacies,
Group 18 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Psalm 53:4 Have those who work evil no knowledge, who eat up my people as they eat bread, and do not call upon God?
Psalm 23:1-6 A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. …
Proverbs 13:25 The righteous has enough to satisfy his appetite, but the belly of the wicked suffers want.
Proverbs 4:1-27 Hear, O sons, a father’s instruction, and be attentive, that you may gain insight, for I give you good precepts; do not forsake my teaching. When I was a son with my father, tender, the only one in the sight of my mother, he taught me and said to me, “Let your heart hold fast my words; keep my commandments, and live. Get wisdom; get insight; do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of my mouth. …
Group 19 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Deuteronomy 32:42 I will make my arrows drunk with blood, and my sword shall devour flesh— with the blood of the slain and the captives, from the long-haired heads of the enemy.’
Deuteronomy 28:53 And you shall eat the fruit of your womb, the flesh of your sons and daughters, whom the Lord your God has given you, in the siege and in the distress with which your enemies shall distress you.
Numbers 24:8 God brings him out of Egypt and is for him like the horns of the wild ox; he shall eat up the nations, his adversaries, and shall break their bones in pieces and pierce them through with his arrows.
Psalm 27:2 When evildoers assail me to eat up my flesh, my adversaries and foes, it is they who stumble and fall.
Job 12:10 In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind.
Job 3:17 There the wicked cease from troubling, and there the weary are at rest.
2 Kings 18:27 But the Rabshakeh said to them, “Has my master sent me to speak these words to your master and to you, and not to the men sitting on the wall, who are doomed with you to eat their own dung and to drink their own urine?”
Group 20 – Bible Verses About Impiety
Leviticus 26:29 You shall eat the flesh of your sons, and you shall eat the flesh of your daughters.
Leviticus 17:14 For the life of every creature is its blood: its blood is its life. Therefore I have said to the people of Israel, You shall not eat the blood of any creature, for the life of every creature is its blood. Whoever eats it shall be cut off.
Leviticus 20:13 If a man lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination; they shall surely be put to death; their blood is upon them.
Deuteronomy 12:23 Only be sure that you do not eat the blood, for the blood is the life, and you shall not eat the life with the flesh.
Numbers 23:24 Behold, a people! As a lioness it rises up and as a lion it lifts itself; it does not lie down until it has devoured the prey and drunk the blood of the slain.”
What is the Role of the Holy Spirit? The presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives is an incredible gift from God. The Holy Spirit serves various roles and functions that are vital to our spiritual growth and relationship with God. In this article, we will explore the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives today, understanding who the Holy Spirit is, and why we need Him. The identity of the Holy Spirit has been a subject of much discussion and contemplation throughout history. From misconceptions about the Holy Spirit being a mystical force to an impersonal power, it is important to turn to the Bible for a clear understanding of who the Holy Spirit truly is. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the biblical teachings on the identity of the Holy Spirit and unravel the profound role this divine person plays in the lives of believers.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity, along with God the Father and Jesus Christ the Son. He is not merely a force or an abstract concept, but a personal being. The Holy Spirit is often described as our Helper, Comforter, Guide, and Teacher. He is the one who convicts us of sin, leads us into truth, empowers us, and enables us to live a life that glorifies God.
One of the primary roles of the Holy Spirit is to convict us of sin. In John 16:8, Jesus said, “And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” The Holy Spirit reveals to us the truth about our sinful nature and shows us our need for a Savior. Through His conviction, we are led to repentance and salvation in Jesus Christ.
Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the Helper or Comforter. In John 14:16, He said, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever.” The Holy Spirit comes alongside us, providing guidance, support, and encouragement in our daily lives. He is our source of strength and comfort in times of difficulty, guiding us through challenges and helping us to overcome.
The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth who guides us into all truth. In John 16:13, Jesus said, “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” Through the Holy Spirit, we gain understanding and insight into God’s Word, the Bible. He illuminates scripture, helping us to grasp its meaning and apply it to our lives. The Holy Spirit reveals the truth about God, Jesus, and the ways of righteousness.
Understanding the Divine Presence and Power
The Holy Spirit as God: A Divine Being with Mind, Emotions, and Will
The Bible unequivocally declares that the Holy Spirit is God Himself. Acts 5:3-4 provides a clear illustration of this truth, as Peter confronts Ananias for lying to the Holy Spirit and equates this act to lying to God. The Holy Spirit possesses the characteristics of God, such as omnipresence and omniscience. In Psalm 139:7-8, we see the Holy Spirit’s omnipresence, as it is stated, “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?” Similarly, 1 Corinthians 2:10-11 reveals the Holy Spirit’s omniscience, as it says, “The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.” These passages affirm that the Holy Spirit is not merely a force or power but a divine person with a mind and knowledge.
The Holy Spirit as a Helper and Teacher
Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the Helper or Counselor, who would come to guide and teach His followers. In John 14:26, Jesus said, “the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” The Greek word “Parakletos” used here signifies a “legal counsel” or advocate. The Holy Spirit serves as a wise counselor, helping believers understand and apply the teachings of Jesus in their lives.
The Holy Spirit’s Role in Convicting Sin
One of the Holy Spirit’s essential functions is to convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. Jesus spoke about this in John 16:7-8, stating, “And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” The Holy Spirit acts as a convicting force, revealing the truth about sin and the need for a Savior. Through the Holy Spirit’s work of conviction, individuals recognize their need for repentance and salvation.
The Holy Spirit’s Indwelling and Filling of Believers
The Holy Spirit not only convicts but also dwells within believers. 1 Corinthians 3:16 affirms this truth, saying, “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” This indwelling of the Holy Spirit is an intimate presence of God within believers, empowering them to live a life that honors Him. Additionally, believers are encouraged to ask the Holy Spirit to fill them continually, seeking His strength and guidance in their daily lives (Ephesians 5:18).
The Holy Spirit as a Source of Revelation and Power
Through the Holy Spirit, believers gain access to divine revelation, wisdom, and power. In 1 Corinthians 2:10-11, it is stated, “These are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.” The Holy Spirit opens believers’ eyes to spiritual truths and imparts wisdom and understanding. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit empowers believers for the fulfillment of their calling, as Jesus promised in Acts 1:8, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” This power enables believers to boldly proclaim the gospel and live a life that reflects the character of Christ.
The Holy Spirit’s Guidance and Revelation of Future Events
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding believers into all truth and revealing what is yet to come. In John 16:13, Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the “Spirit of truth” who would guide believers into all truth. The Holy Spirit communicates the thoughts and intentions of God, making known to believers what is yet to happen. This guidance and revelation provide believers with a deeper understanding of God’s plans and purposes.
The Holy Spirit’s Empowerment and Spiritual Gifts
Another significant aspect of the Holy Spirit’s work is the empowerment of believers and the distribution of spiritual gifts. The Holy Spirit equips believers with various gifts, such as wisdom, knowledge, and power, for the edification of the body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 provides a comprehensive list of these gifts. These gifts are not meant for personal gain but are to be used for the benefit of others and the advancement of God’s kingdom.
The Holy Spirit’s Role in Sanctification and Transformation
The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in the process of sanctification, transforming believers into the image of Christ. Through the Holy Spirit’s work, believers are renewed, sanctified, and empowered to live a life that is pleasing to God. Romans 8:10-11 affirms this transformative work, stating, “But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.“
The Holy Spirit as a Seal and Intercessor
The Holy Spirit acts as a seal of ownership and a guarantee of our inheritance as children of God. Ephesians 1:13-14 states, “In him, you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.” The Holy Spirit provides assurance and security in our relationship with God. Additionally, the Holy Spirit intercedes for believers in their weakness, helping them in their prayers and aligning them with the will of God (Romans 8:26-27).
The Holy Spirit’s Fruit and the Transformation of Character
The Holy Spirit produces fruit in the lives of believers, enabling them to display the character of Christ. Galatians 5:22-23 outlines the fruit of the Spirit as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities reflect the inner transformation that occurs through the presence and work of the Holy Spirit. As believers yield to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, their lives bear witness to the transformative power of God.
The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in the lives of believers today. He convicts us of sin, comforts us, guides us into truth, empowers us, produces fruit in our lives, seals us, and assures us of our salvation. As we yield to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to work in us, we experience transformation and grow in our relationship with God. Let us embrace the presence and work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, relying on Him for guidance, empowerment, and spiritual growth.
In conclusion, the Holy Spirit is not merely a force or a power but a divine person who is God Himself. The Holy Spirit works in the lives of believers as a helper, teacher, convictor, indweller, revealer, guide, and empowerer. Through the Holy Spirit, believers experience the presence and power of God, enabling them to live a life that honors Him. As we seek to understand who the Holy Spirit is and embrace His work in our lives, we can truly experience the abundant life that Christ has promised.
What is the Role of the Holy Spirit?
John 14:26 – “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
2 Corinthians 3:17 – “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
Romans 5:5 – “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”
Acts 2:3-4 – “They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.”
John 14:16 – “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever.”
Group 1 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
1 Corinthians 2:11 – “For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.”
Jude 1:20-21 – “But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.”
Ephesians 4:30 – “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”
Acts 2:38 – Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Acts 4:31 – “After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.”
1 Corinthians 3:16 – “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?“
Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Luke 11:13 – “If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
Group 2 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Acts 13:2 – “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.””
John 15:26 – “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me.”
Acts 5:32 – “We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”
Mark 13:11 – “Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.”
Luke 3:21-22 – “When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.””
2 Peter 1:21 – “For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”
Acts 19:5-6 – “On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.”
Group 3 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Psalm 143:10 – “Teach me to do your will,for you are my God;may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.”
Psalm 139:7-8 – “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.”
Genesis 1:1-2 – “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.”
Ezekiel 36:27 – “And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.”
Matthew 1:20 – “But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.”“
2 Corinthians 13:14 – “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”
John 1:33 – “And I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’”
Group 4 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
1 Corinthians 6:19 – “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,”
Romans 8:26 – “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.“
Galatians 5:22-23 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
John 14:26 – “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”
Group 5 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Matthew 12:32 – “Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.”
Titus 3:5 – “He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.”
Zechariah 4:6 – So he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.”
Acts 10:47 – “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.”
Luke 11:13 – “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Isaiah 11:2 – “And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.”
Group 6 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Ezekiel 36:26-27 – “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.”
Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”
2 Corinthians 3:17 – “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
John 16:12-15 – “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.”
Ephesians 1:13 – “In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,”
Group 7 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Luke 4:1 – “And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness.”
John 15:26 – “But when the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness about me.“
Acts 5:32 – “And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”
Ephesians 4:30 – “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”
Acts 2:4 – “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
Acts 10:38 – “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.”
Romans 5:5 – “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”
Romans 8:9 – “You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.”
Group 8 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Matthew 28:19 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,”
Genesis 1:2 – “The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.”
Psalm 51:11 – “Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me.“
Matthew 5:6 – “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”
1 Corinthians 3:16-17 – “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.”
Acts 2:1-47 – “When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting, And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. …”
Group 9 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Zechariah 4:6 – “Then he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.”
Romans 5:3-5 – “More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”
Acts 2:17-18 – “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy.”
Titus 3:5-6 – “He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,”
John 16:7-8 – “Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment:”
Group 10 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Isaiah 63:10 – “But they rebelled and grieved his Holy Spirit; therefore he turned to be their enemy, and himself fought against them.”
Romans 8:14 – “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.”
Matthew 10:20 – “For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.”
Luke 1:35 – And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God.”
Psalm 104:30 – “When you send forth your Spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the ground.”
1 Corinthians 12:13 – “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.”
Galatians 4:6 – “And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!”“
John 14:16 – “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever,”
Matthew 1:18 – “Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.”
Ephesians 5:18 – “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,”
Group 11 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Romans 8:11 – “If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.”
Romans 8:26-27 – “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.”
Galatians 5:22 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,”
Job 33:4 – “The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life.”
Acts 7:51 – “You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit. As your fathers did, so do you.”
1 Corinthians 2:14 – “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.”
Ephesians 1:13-14 – “In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.”
Group 12 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
John 3:8 – “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
John 7:37-39 – “On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.”
1 Corinthians 6:11 – “And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.”
Nehemiah 9:20 – “You gave your good Spirit to instruct them and did not withhold your manna from their mouth and gave them water for their thirst.”
1 Timothy 4:1 – “Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons,”
2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
2 Corinthians 13:14 – “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”
Group 13 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
1 John 2:27 – “But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him.”
John 20:21-23 – Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.”
John 20:22 –And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
Ephesians 3:16 – “That according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being,”
John 3:5-8 – Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
Group 14 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Hebrews 10:29 – “How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has spurned the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace?”
Hebrews 9:14 – “How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.”
Romans 8:16 – “The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,”
2 Corinthians 3:6 – “Who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”
Galatians 5:1-26 – “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you. I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace. For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. …”
2 Corinthians 5:5 – “He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the Spirit as a guarantee.”
Group 15 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Titus 3:5 – “He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,”
Acts 19:1-6 – “And it happened that while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the inland country and came to Ephesus. There he found some disciples. And he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” And they said, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” And he said, “Into what then were you baptized?” They said, “Into John’s baptism.” ...”
1 Corinthians 2:11 – “For who knows a person’s thoughts except the spirit of that person, which is in him? So also no one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.”
Genesis 6:3 – Then the Lord said, “My Spirit shall not abide in man forever, for he is flesh: his days shall be 120 years.”
Romans 8:15 – “For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!””
Galatians 5:16 – “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Group 16 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Matthew 3:16-17 – “And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.””
Matthew 3:16 – “And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him;”
1 Peter 4:14 – “If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.”
Acts 2:17 – “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams;”
1 Thessalonians 1:6 – “And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit,“
Luke 24:49 – “And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”
Group 17 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
John 7:38-39 – “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.”
Zechariah 12:10 – “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and pleas for mercy, so that, when they look on me, on him whom they have pierced, they shall mourn for him, as one mourns for an only child, and weep bitterly over him, as one weeps over a firstborn.”
1 Corinthians 2:10 – “These things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.”
Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.”
Romans 8:1-2 – “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.”
1 Corinthians 3:16 – “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?”
Group 18 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Luke 2:25 – “Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.”
2 Timothy 3:16-17 – “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.”
John 8:32 – “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
1 Thessalonians 5:19 – “Do not quench the Spirit.”
Joel 2:28-29 – “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit.”
Group 19 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Luke 4:18 – “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed,“
Genesis 1:1-2 – “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.”
2 Corinthians 3:18 – “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”
Matthew 3:11 – “I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.“
Group 20 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
John 16:7-15– “Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged. …“
John 14:16-17 – “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.“
John 16:13 – “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.”
Group 21 – What is the Role of the Holy Spirit
Isaiah 61:1 – “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.“
Matthew 28:19-20 – “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
John 14:15-17 – “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.”
Acts 2:38 – “And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Is the Holy Spirit God? The identity of the Holy Spirit has been a subject of much discussion and contemplation throughout history. From misconceptions about the Holy Spirit being a mystical force to an impersonal power, it is important to turn to the Bible for a clear understanding of who the Holy Spirit truly is. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the biblical teachings on the identity of the Holy Spirit and unravel the profound role this divine person plays in the lives of believers.
The Holy Spirit is God
Understanding the Divine Presence and Power
The Holy Spirit as God: A Divine Being with Mind, Emotions, and Will
The Bible unequivocally declares that the Holy Spirit is God Himself. Acts 5:3-4 provides a clear illustration of this truth, as Peter confronts Ananias for lying to the Holy Spirit and equates this act to lying to God. The Holy Spirit possesses the characteristics of God, such as omnipresence and omniscience. In Psalm 139:7-8, we see the Holy Spirit’s omnipresence, as it is stated, “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?” Similarly, 1 Corinthians 2:10-11 reveals the Holy Spirit’s omniscience, as it says, “The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.” These passages affirm that the Holy Spirit is not merely a force or power but a divine person with a mind and knowledge.
The Holy Spirit as a Helper and Teacher
Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the Helper or Counselor, who would come to guide and teach His followers. In John 14:26, Jesus said, “the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” The Greek word “Parakletos” used here signifies a “legal counsel” or advocate. The Holy Spirit serves as a wise counselor, helping believers understand and apply the teachings of Jesus in their lives.
The Holy Spirit’s Role in Convicting Sin
One of the Holy Spirit’s essential functions is to convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. Jesus spoke about this in John 16:7-8, stating, “And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” The Holy Spirit acts as a convicting force, revealing the truth about sin and the need for a Savior. Through the Holy Spirit’s work of conviction, individuals recognize their need for repentance and salvation.
The Holy Spirit’s Indwelling and Filling of Believers
The Holy Spirit not only convicts but also dwells within believers. 1 Corinthians 3:16 affirms this truth, saying, “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” This indwelling of the Holy Spirit is an intimate presence of God within believers, empowering them to live a life that honors Him. Additionally, believers are encouraged to ask the Holy Spirit to fill them continually, seeking His strength and guidance in their daily lives (Ephesians 5:18).
The Holy Spirit as a Source of Revelation and Power
Through the Holy Spirit, believers gain access to divine revelation, wisdom, and power. In 1 Corinthians 2:10-11, it is stated, “These are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.” The Holy Spirit opens believers’ eyes to spiritual truths and imparts wisdom and understanding. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit empowers believers for the fulfillment of their calling, as Jesus promised in Acts 1:8, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” This power enables believers to boldly proclaim the gospel and live a life that reflects the character of Christ.
The Holy Spirit’s Guidance and Revelation of Future Events
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding believers into all truth and revealing what is yet to come. In John 16:13, Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the “Spirit of truth” who would guide believers into all truth. The Holy Spirit communicates the thoughts and intentions of God, making known to believers what is yet to happen. This guidance and revelation provide believers with a deeper understanding of God’s plans and purposes.
The Holy Spirit’s Empowerment and Spiritual Gifts
Another significant aspect of the Holy Spirit’s work is the empowerment of believers and the distribution of spiritual gifts. The Holy Spirit equips believers with various gifts, such as wisdom, knowledge, and power, for the edification of the body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 provides a comprehensive list of these gifts. These gifts are not meant for personal gain but are to be used for the benefit of others and the advancement of God’s kingdom.
The Holy Spirit’s Role in Sanctification and Transformation
The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in the process of sanctification, transforming believers into the image of Christ. Through the Holy Spirit’s work, believers are renewed, sanctified, and empowered to live a life that is pleasing to God. Romans 8:10-11 affirms this transformative work, stating, “But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.“
The Holy Spirit as a Seal and Intercessor
The Holy Spirit acts as a seal of ownership and a guarantee of our inheritance as children of God. Ephesians 1:13-14 states, “In him, you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.” The Holy Spirit provides assurance and security in our relationship with God. Additionally, the Holy Spirit intercedes for believers in their weakness, helping them in their prayers and aligning them with the will of God (Romans 8:26-27).
The Holy Spirit’s Fruit and the Transformation of Character
The Holy Spirit produces fruit in the lives of believers, enabling them to display the character of Christ. Galatians 5:22-23 outlines the fruit of the Spirit as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities reflect the inner transformation that occurs through the presence and work of the Holy Spirit. As believers yield to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, their lives bear witness to the transformative power of God.
In conclusion, the Holy Spirit is not merely a force or a power but a divine person who is God Himself. The Holy Spirit works in the lives of believers as a helper, teacher, convictor, indweller, revealer, guide, and empowerer. Through the Holy Spirit, believers experience the presence and power of God, enabling them to live a life that honors Him. As we seek to understand who the Holy Spirit is and embrace His work in our lives, we can truly experience the abundant life that Christ has promised.
Is the Holy Spirit God?
John 14:26 – “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
2 Corinthians 3:17 – “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
Romans 5:5 – “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”
Acts 2:3-4 – “They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.”
John 14:16 – “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever.”
Group 1 – Is the Holy Spirit God
Acts 4:31 – “After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.”
1 Corinthians 3:16 – “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?“
Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Luke 11:13 – “If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
1 Corinthians 2:11 – “For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.”
Jude 1:20-21 – “But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.”
Ephesians 4:30 – “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”
Acts 2:38 – Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Group 2 – Is the Holy Spirit God
Acts 13:2 – “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.””
John 15:26 – “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me.”
Acts 5:32 – “We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”
Mark 13:11 – “Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.”
Luke 3:21-22 – “When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.””
2 Peter 1:21 – “For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”
Acts 19:5-6 – “On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.”
Group 3 – Is the Holy Spirit God
Ezekiel 36:27 – “And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.”
Matthew 1:20 – “But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.”“
2 Corinthians 13:14 – “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”
John 1:33 – “And I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’”
Psalm 143:10 – “Teach me to do your will,for you are my God;may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.”
Psalm 139:7-8 – “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.”
Genesis 1:1-2 – “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.”
Group 4 – Is the Holy Spirit God
1 Corinthians 6:19 – “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,”
Romans 8:26 – “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.“
Galatians 5:22-23 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
John 14:26 – “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”
Group 5 – Is the Holy Spirit God
Matthew 12:32 – “Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.”
Titus 3:5 – “He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.”
Zechariah 4:6 – So he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.”
Acts 10:47 – “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.”
Luke 11:13 – “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Isaiah 11:2 – “And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.”
Group 6 – Is the Holy Spirit God
Ezekiel 36:26-27 – “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.”
Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”
2 Corinthians 3:17 – “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
John 16:12-15 – “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.”
Ephesians 1:13 – “In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,”
Group 7 – Is the Holy Spirit God
Luke 4:1 – “And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness.”
John 15:26 – “But when the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness about me.“
Acts 5:32 – “And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”
Ephesians 4:30 – “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”
Acts 2:4 – “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
Acts 10:38 – “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.”
Romans 5:5 – “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”
Romans 8:9 – “You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.”
Group 8 – Is the Holy Spirit God
1 Corinthians 3:16-17 – “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.”
Acts 2:1-47 – “When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting, And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. …”
Matthew 28:19 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,”
Genesis 1:2 – “The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.”
Psalm 51:11 – “Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me.“
Matthew 5:6 – “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”
Group 9 – Is the Holy Spirit God
Zechariah 4:6 – “Then he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.”
Romans 5:3-5 – “More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”
Acts 2:17-18 – “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy.”
Titus 3:5-6 – “He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,”
John 16:7-8 – “Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment:”
Group 10 – Is the Holy Spirit God
Isaiah 63:10 – “But they rebelled and grieved his Holy Spirit; therefore he turned to be their enemy, and himself fought against them.”
Romans 8:14 – “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.”
Matthew 10:20 – “For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.”
Luke 1:35 – And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God.”
Psalm 104:30 – “When you send forth your Spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the ground.”
1 Corinthians 12:13 – “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.”
Galatians 4:6 – “And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!”“
John 14:16 – “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever,”
Matthew 1:18 – “Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.”
Ephesians 5:18 – “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,”
Group 11 – Is the Holy Spirit God
Acts 7:51 – “You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit. As your fathers did, so do you.”
1 Corinthians 2:14 – “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.”
Ephesians 1:13-14 – “In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.”
Romans 8:11 – “If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.”
Romans 8:26-27 – “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.”
Galatians 5:22 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,”
Job 33:4 – “The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life.”
Group 12 – Is the Holy Spirit God
Nehemiah 9:20 – “You gave your good Spirit to instruct them and did not withhold your manna from their mouth and gave them water for their thirst.”
1 Timothy 4:1 – “Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons,”
2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
2 Corinthians 13:14 – “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”
John 3:8 – “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
John 7:37-39 – “On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.”
1 Corinthians 6:11 – “And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.”
Group 13 – Is the Holy Spirit God
1 John 2:27 – “But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him.”
John 20:21-23 – Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.”
John 20:22 –And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
Ephesians 3:16 – “That according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being,”
John 3:5-8 – Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
Group 14 – Is the Holy Spirit God
Hebrews 10:29 – “How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has spurned the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace?”
Hebrews 9:14 – “How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.”
Romans 8:16 – “The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,”
2 Corinthians 3:6 – “Who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”
Galatians 5:1-26 – “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you. I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace. For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. …”
2 Corinthians 5:5 – “He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the Spirit as a guarantee.”
Group 15 – Is the Holy Spirit God
1 Corinthians 2:11 – “For who knows a person’s thoughts except the spirit of that person, which is in him? So also no one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.”
Genesis 6:3 – Then the Lord said, “My Spirit shall not abide in man forever, for he is flesh: his days shall be 120 years.”
Romans 8:15 – “For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!””
Galatians 5:16 – “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Titus 3:5 – “He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,”
Acts 19:1-6 – “And it happened that while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the inland country and came to Ephesus. There he found some disciples. And he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” And they said, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” And he said, “Into what then were you baptized?” They said, “Into John’s baptism.” ...”
Group 16 – Is the Holy Spirit God
Matthew 3:16-17 – “And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.””
Matthew 3:16 – “And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him;”
1 Peter 4:14 – “If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.”
Acts 2:17 – “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams;”
1 Thessalonians 1:6 – “And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit,“
Luke 24:49 – “And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”
Group 17 – Is the Holy Spirit God
1 Corinthians 2:10 – “These things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.”
Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.”
Romans 8:1-2 – “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.”
1 Corinthians 3:16 – “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?”
John 7:38-39 – “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.”
Zechariah 12:10 – “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and pleas for mercy, so that, when they look on me, on him whom they have pierced, they shall mourn for him, as one mourns for an only child, and weep bitterly over him, as one weeps over a firstborn.”
Group 18 – Is the Holy Spirit God
Luke 2:25 – “Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.”
2 Timothy 3:16-17 – “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.”
John 8:32 – “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
1 Thessalonians 5:19 – “Do not quench the Spirit.”
Joel 2:28-29 – “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit.”
Group 19 – Is the Holy Spirit God
Luke 4:18 – “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed,“
Genesis 1:1-2 – “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.”
2 Corinthians 3:18 – “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”
Matthew 3:11 – “I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.“
Group 20 – Is the Holy Spirit God
John 16:7-15– “Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged. …“
John 14:16-17 – “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.“
John 16:13 – “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.”
Group 21 – Is the Holy Spirit God
John 14:15-17 – “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.”
Acts 2:38 – “And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Isaiah 61:1 – “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.“
Matthew 28:19-20 – “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do? The identity of the Holy Spirit has been a subject of much discussion and contemplation throughout history. From misconceptions about the Holy Spirit being a mystical force to an impersonal power, it is important to turn to the Bible for a clear understanding of who the Holy Spirit truly is. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the biblical teachings on the identity of the Holy Spirit and unravel the profound role this divine person plays in the lives of believers.
Who the Holy Spirit is and What He Does
Understanding the Divine Presence and Power
The Holy Spirit as God: A Divine Being with Mind, Emotions, and Will
The Bible unequivocally declares that the Holy Spirit is God Himself. Acts 5:3-4 provides a clear illustration of this truth, as Peter confronts Ananias for lying to the Holy Spirit and equates this act to lying to God. The Holy Spirit possesses the characteristics of God, such as omnipresence and omniscience. In Psalm 139:7-8, we see the Holy Spirit’s omnipresence, as it is stated, “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?” Similarly, 1 Corinthians 2:10-11 reveals the Holy Spirit’s omniscience, as it says, “The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.” These passages affirm that the Holy Spirit is not merely a force or power but a divine person with a mind and knowledge.
The Holy Spirit as a Helper and Teacher
Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the Helper or Counselor, who would come to guide and teach His followers. In John 14:26, Jesus said, “the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” The Greek word “Parakletos” used here signifies a “legal counsel” or advocate. The Holy Spirit serves as a wise counselor, helping believers understand and apply the teachings of Jesus in their lives.
The Holy Spirit’s Role in Convicting Sin
One of the Holy Spirit’s essential functions is to convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. Jesus spoke about this in John 16:7-8, stating, “And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” The Holy Spirit acts as a convicting force, revealing the truth about sin and the need for a Savior. Through the Holy Spirit’s work of conviction, individuals recognize their need for repentance and salvation.
The Holy Spirit’s Indwelling and Filling of Believers
The Holy Spirit not only convicts but also dwells within believers. 1 Corinthians 3:16 affirms this truth, saying, “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” This indwelling of the Holy Spirit is an intimate presence of God within believers, empowering them to live a life that honors Him. Additionally, believers are encouraged to ask the Holy Spirit to fill them continually, seeking His strength and guidance in their daily lives (Ephesians 5:18).
The Holy Spirit as a Source of Revelation and Power
Through the Holy Spirit, believers gain access to divine revelation, wisdom, and power. In 1 Corinthians 2:10-11, it is stated, “These are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.” The Holy Spirit opens believers’ eyes to spiritual truths and imparts wisdom and understanding. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit empowers believers for the fulfillment of their calling, as Jesus promised in Acts 1:8, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” This power enables believers to boldly proclaim the gospel and live a life that reflects the character of Christ.
The Holy Spirit’s Guidance and Revelation of Future Events
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding believers into all truth and revealing what is yet to come. In John 16:13, Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the “Spirit of truth” who would guide believers into all truth. The Holy Spirit communicates the thoughts and intentions of God, making known to believers what is yet to happen. This guidance and revelation provide believers with a deeper understanding of God’s plans and purposes.
The Holy Spirit’s Empowerment and Spiritual Gifts
Another significant aspect of the Holy Spirit’s work is the empowerment of believers and the distribution of spiritual gifts. The Holy Spirit equips believers with various gifts, such as wisdom, knowledge, and power, for the edification of the body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 provides a comprehensive list of these gifts. These gifts are not meant for personal gain but are to be used for the benefit of others and the advancement of God’s kingdom.
The Holy Spirit’s Role in Sanctification and Transformation
The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in the process of sanctification, transforming believers into the image of Christ. Through the Holy Spirit’s work, believers are renewed, sanctified, and empowered to live a life that is pleasing to God. Romans 8:10-11 affirms this transformative work, stating, “But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.“
The Holy Spirit as a Seal and Intercessor
The Holy Spirit acts as a seal of ownership and a guarantee of our inheritance as children of God. Ephesians 1:13-14 states, “In him, you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.” The Holy Spirit provides assurance and security in our relationship with God. Additionally, the Holy Spirit intercedes for believers in their weakness, helping them in their prayers and aligning them with the will of God (Romans 8:26-27).
The Holy Spirit’s Fruit and the Transformation of Character
The Holy Spirit produces fruit in the lives of believers, enabling them to display the character of Christ. Galatians 5:22-23 outlines the fruit of the Spirit as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities reflect the inner transformation that occurs through the presence and work of the Holy Spirit. As believers yield to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, their lives bear witness to the transformative power of God.
In conclusion, the Holy Spirit is not merely a force or a power but a divine person who is God Himself. The Holy Spirit works in the lives of believers as a helper, teacher, convictor, indweller, revealer, guide, and empowerer. Through the Holy Spirit, believers experience the presence and power of God, enabling them to live a life that honors Him. As we seek to understand who the Holy Spirit is and embrace His work in our lives, we can truly experience the abundant life that Christ has promised.
Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do?
John 14:26 – “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
2 Corinthians 3:17 – “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
Romans 5:5 – “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”
Acts 2:3-4 – “They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.”
John 14:16 – “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever.”
Group 1 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
Acts 4:31 – “After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.”
1 Corinthians 3:16 – “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?“
Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Luke 11:13 – “If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
1 Corinthians 2:11 – “For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.”
Jude 1:20-21 – “But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.”
Ephesians 4:30 – “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”
Acts 2:38 – Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Group 2 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
Luke 3:21-22 – “When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.””
2 Peter 1:21 – “For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”
Acts 19:5-6 – “On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.”
Acts 13:2 – “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.””
John 15:26 – “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me.”
Acts 5:32 – “We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”
Mark 13:11 – “Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.”
Group 3 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
Ezekiel 36:27 – “And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.”
Matthew 1:20 – “But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.”“
2 Corinthians 13:14 – “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”
John 1:33 – “And I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’”
Psalm 143:10 – “Teach me to do your will,for you are my God;may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.”
Psalm 139:7-8 – “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.”
Genesis 1:1-2 – “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.”
Group 4 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
1 Corinthians 6:19 – “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,”
Romans 8:26 – “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.“
Galatians 5:22-23 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
John 14:26 – “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”
Group 5 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
Luke 11:13 – “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Isaiah 11:2 – “And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.”
Matthew 12:32 – “Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.”
Titus 3:5 – “He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.”
Zechariah 4:6 – So he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.”
Acts 10:47 – “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.”
Group 6 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
Ezekiel 36:26-27 – “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.”
Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”
2 Corinthians 3:17 – “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
John 16:12-15 – “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.”
Ephesians 1:13 – “In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,”
Group 7 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
Luke 4:1 – “And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness.”
John 15:26 – “But when the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness about me.“
Acts 5:32 – “And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”
Ephesians 4:30 – “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”
Acts 2:4 – “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
Acts 10:38 – “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.”
Romans 5:5 – “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”
Romans 8:9 – “You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.”
Group 8 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
1 Corinthians 3:16-17 – “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.”
Acts 2:1-47 – “When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting, And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. …”
Matthew 28:19 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,”
Genesis 1:2 – “The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.”
Psalm 51:11 – “Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me.“
Matthew 5:6 – “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”
Group 9 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
Zechariah 4:6 – “Then he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.”
Romans 5:3-5 – “More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”
Acts 2:17-18 – “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy.”
Titus 3:5-6 – “He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,”
John 16:7-8 – “Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment:”
Group 10 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
Psalm 104:30 – “When you send forth your Spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the ground.”
1 Corinthians 12:13 – “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.”
Galatians 4:6 – “And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!”“
John 14:16 – “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever,”
Matthew 1:18 – “Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.”
Ephesians 5:18 – “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,”
Isaiah 63:10 – “But they rebelled and grieved his Holy Spirit; therefore he turned to be their enemy, and himself fought against them.”
Romans 8:14 – “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.”
Matthew 10:20 – “For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.”
Luke 1:35 – And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God.”
Group 11 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
Acts 7:51 – “You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit. As your fathers did, so do you.”
1 Corinthians 2:14 – “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.”
Ephesians 1:13-14 – “In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.”
Romans 8:11 – “If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.”
Romans 8:26-27 – “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.”
Galatians 5:22 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,”
Job 33:4 – “The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life.”
Group 12 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
Nehemiah 9:20 – “You gave your good Spirit to instruct them and did not withhold your manna from their mouth and gave them water for their thirst.”
1 Timothy 4:1 – “Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons,”
2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
2 Corinthians 13:14 – “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”
John 3:8 – “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
John 7:37-39 – “On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.”
1 Corinthians 6:11 – “And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.”
Group 13 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
1 John 2:27 – “But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him.”
John 20:21-23 – Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.”
John 20:22 –And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
Ephesians 3:16 – “That according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being,”
John 3:5-8 – Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
Group 14 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
Galatians 5:1-26 – “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you. I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace. For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. …”
2 Corinthians 5:5 – “He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the Spirit as a guarantee.”
Hebrews 10:29 – “How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has spurned the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace?”
Hebrews 9:14 – “How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.”
Romans 8:16 – “The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,”
2 Corinthians 3:6 – “Who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”
Group 15 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
1 Corinthians 2:11 – “For who knows a person’s thoughts except the spirit of that person, which is in him? So also no one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.”
Genesis 6:3 – Then the Lord said, “My Spirit shall not abide in man forever, for he is flesh: his days shall be 120 years.”
Romans 8:15 – “For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!””
Galatians 5:16 – “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Titus 3:5 – “He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,”
Acts 19:1-6 – “And it happened that while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the inland country and came to Ephesus. There he found some disciples. And he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” And they said, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” And he said, “Into what then were you baptized?” They said, “Into John’s baptism.” ...”
Group 16 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
Matthew 3:16-17 – “And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.””
Matthew 3:16 – “And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him;”
1 Peter 4:14 – “If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.”
Acts 2:17 – “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams;”
1 Thessalonians 1:6 – “And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit,“
Luke 24:49 – “And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”
Group 17 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
1 Corinthians 2:10 – “These things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.”
Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.”
Romans 8:1-2 – “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.”
1 Corinthians 3:16 – “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?”
John 7:38-39 – “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.”
Zechariah 12:10 – “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and pleas for mercy, so that, when they look on me, on him whom they have pierced, they shall mourn for him, as one mourns for an only child, and weep bitterly over him, as one weeps over a firstborn.”
Group 18 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
John 8:32 – “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
1 Thessalonians 5:19 – “Do not quench the Spirit.”
Joel 2:28-29 – “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit.”
Luke 2:25 – “Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.”
2 Timothy 3:16-17 – “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.”
Group 19 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
Luke 4:18 – “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed,“
Genesis 1:1-2 – “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.”
2 Corinthians 3:18 – “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”
Matthew 3:11 – “I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.“
Group 20 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
John 14:16-17 – “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.“
John 16:13 – “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.”
John 16:7-15– “Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged. …“
Group 21 – Who is the Holy Spirit and What Does He Do
John 14:15-17 – “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.”
Acts 2:38 – “And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Isaiah 61:1 – “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.“
Matthew 28:19-20 – “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Is Suicide a Sin?Can a Christian Commit Suicide? Suicide is a deeply tragic and complex issue that affects individuals from all walks of life, including Christians. It raises profound questions about faith, salvation, and the eternal destiny of those who take their own lives. While there are varying beliefs within Christian communities, it is crucial to approach this topic with compassion, understanding, and a commitment to biblical truth. In this article, we will explore the question: If a Christian commits suicide, is he/she still saved? We will examine the perspectives and insights from a Biblical point of view to shed light on this sensitive subject.
Suicide is the act of causing one’s own death intentionally; or it is the act of killing one’s self intentionally. In life, we often face hardship, difficulties, and challenges that lead to much despair. When grappling with such profound despair, many people turn to their faith for guidance and solace. For Christians, the Bible serves as a source of wisdom, encouragement, and insight on various aspects of life, including suicide. In this article, we will explore what the Bible says about suicide, examining different perspectives and passages that shed light on this sensitive issue.
Is Suicide a Sin?
Analysis from a Biblical Perspective
Suicide is a grave sin, as it involves the intentional taking of one’s own life. The Bible clearly states, “You must not murder” (Exodus 20:13), and Jesus reaffirmed this commandment (Matthew 19:18). By ending their own life, a person rejects God’s gift of life and assumes authority over matters of life and death that belong solely to God. Suicide is a tragic act that leaves behind immense pain and suffering for the person’s loved ones.
However, it is essential to recognize that salvation is not contingent upon our works, including the act of suicide. Our salvation rests solely on the grace and mercy of God through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:1-10; Titus 3:5). No sin, including suicide, can separate a true believer from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39). Salvation is not earned by our actions but received by faith in Christ’s atoning sacrifice.
Understanding Suicide in Biblical Context
To comprehend the Bible’s stance on suicide, we must consider the broader context of its teachings. From the very beginning, the Bible emphasizes the sanctity of life. In the Ten Commandments, God commands, “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13). This commandment establishes the inherent value of human life and condemns the taking of another person’s life. It’s equally clear that suicide is murder of yourself, an act which is biblically condemned. Behold, no one is to stop their own life. The Lord God Almighty decides when we are going to be born, He is the giver of life and He numbers our days. Life is a precious gift from God.
In the Bible, we read of about 5 different people that took their own life. Also, there are around 5 people in the Bible that despaired to the point of death but did not take their own life, one of those being Jesus. Jonah said, “it is better for me to die than to live”. Solomon said, “I hated life”. Paul said he was burdened beyond his strength and despaired of life itself. A close look reveals that the difference between these people and the biblical people who executed themselves seems to have been their relationship with God. When going through desperate moments in life, pray and seek God for comfort.
I Corinthians 10:13 says, The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
Suicide as Sin?
Brethren, suicide is “self-murder,” and as such it is a sin since murder is a sin. Aside from the “do not commit murder” command given by God to His people, suicide is also a sin for the following theological and practical reasons: (1) it is God and God alone who has the right to determine life and death, and (2) suicide reveals a belief that God is not powerful enough to help you solve your problems. Beloved, irrespective of what you are going through, God is willing and ready to help you. Do not lose hope but trust in God for strength, love, and guidance. As Christians, we know that in Christ there is hope. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 says, “Our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father loved us and through grace gave us eternal comfort and a good hope. May he encourage your hearts and give you strength in every good thing you do or say.”
Suicide (Self-Murder)
When contemplating suicide, it is crucial to realize that, from a biblical perspective, it is considered self-murder. Just as God is the only one who has the authority to determine the timing and manner of our deaths, suicide rejects His gift of life. By taking one’s own life, a person assumes God’s authority, which is a grave sin in the eyes of the Bible.
Examples of Suicide in the Bible
Throughout the Bible, there are accounts of individuals who took their own lives. While these stories provide insights into the consequences and complexities surrounding suicide, it is essential to approach them with sensitivity and compassion.
1. King Saul (1 Samuel 31:3-4)
The Philistines were in war with Israel, and the Israelites fled before the Philistines and fell slain on Mount Gilboa. It was then that the Philistines overtook king Saul and his sons. The Philistines killed Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchi-shua, the sons of king Saul. The battle pressed hard against king Saul, and the archers shot arrows at him, and he was badly wounded. Then king Saul said to his armor-bearer “Draw your sword, and thrust me through with it, lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and mistreat me.” But his armor-bearer could not because he was afraid to do so. Therefore, king Saul took his own sword and fell upon it and he died.
2. Saul’s Armor-bearer (1 Samuel 31:5)
When king Saul’s armor-bearer saw that king Saul had fallen on his sword to kill himself and he was dead, he equally drew his sword and fell upon it and died with him. And as such, Saul and his armor-bearer committed suicide on the same day.
3. Ahithophel
Ahithophel, once a close companion of David and the grandfather of Bathsheba, sided with Absalom in a rebellion against David. When his counsel was not heeded, Ahithophel, out of fear, rejection, or hopelessness, chose to hang himself (2 Samuel 17:23). His decision highlights the devastation that can arise from a sense of betrayal and despair.
4) Zimri (1 Kings 16:15-20)
In the 27th year of Asa King of Judah, Zimri reigned seven days in Tirzah. The troops of Israel were encamped against the Philistine town of Gibbethon. In their encampment, they heard that Zimri had conspired, and he had killed the king. As a result, all Israel made Omri, the commander of the army, king over Israel that day in the camp. Omri went up from Gibbethon, and all Israel with him, and they besieged Tirzah. When King Zimri saw that the city was taken, he went into the citadel of the king’s house and burned the king’s house over him with fire and died.
5) Judas Iscariot (Matthew 27:3-5)
When Judas, the betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the 30 pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, and said, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” And they also replied, “What is that to us? See to it yourself.” And throwing down the 30 pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself.
Suicide and the Question of Salvation
One of the most pressing concerns for Christians grappling with suicide is its impact on salvation. The Bible assures believers that their salvation is secure in Christ, and nothing can separate them from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39). However, when it comes to suicide, there are differing interpretations and perspectives.
The Forgiveness of Sins
The Bible teaches that forgiveness is available for all sins, including suicide. Through the mercy and merits of Jesus Christ, believers are granted forgiveness for their past, present, and future transgressions (Colossians 2:13-14). As such, and knowing that Jesus died for all our sins (1 John 2:2), some Biblical scholars believe and teach that if a true Christian were to commit suicide amidst a moment of spiritual attack and extreme weakness, his or her sin is still covered by the blood of Jesus Christ.
Faith and Salvation
While suicide can be forgiven, some question the faith of those who contemplate or commit this act. The Bible describes God’s children as those who have hope and purpose in life (Acts 24:15; Romans 5:2-5, 8:24; 2 Corinthians 1:10). Those who consider suicide often experience a profound lack of hope and purpose. It is important to encourage individuals facing such thoughts to examine their relationship with God and seek the support of their faith community.
The Assurance of Salvation for Believers in Christ
Once a person genuinely accepts Christ as their Savior, they are eternally secure in their salvation. The Bible offers numerous assurances of this truth. In 1 Peter 1:3-5, it declares that our inheritance in heaven is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. It is kept safe by the power of God, and nothing can snatch us out of His hand (John 10:28). The Holy Spirit is given as a seal, guaranteeing our redemption until the day of Christ’s return (Ephesians 1:13-14, 4:30).
These promises reveal that our salvation is not dependent on our own efforts or ability to maintain our faith. It is grounded in the finished work of Christ and secured by the faithfulness of God. Even in moments of despair or weakness, when a person may contemplate suicide, the grip of God’s grace remains steadfast.
The Reality of Mental Health and Despair
It is essential to approach the topic of suicide with sensitivity and understanding, particularly when considering the mental health challenges that individuals may face. Depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses can cloud a person’s judgment, distort their perception of reality, and intensify feelings of hopelessness. Christians are not immune to these struggles.
The Bible acknowledges the reality of human suffering and the depths of despair. Many biblical figures, such as Job, Jeremiah, and Jonah, experienced profound anguish and wrestled with thoughts of death. Their stories highlight the complexities of human emotions and the need for compassion and support within the Christian community.
God’s Compassion and Understanding
In times of darkness and despair, it is crucial for Christians to extend compassion, love, and hope to those who are struggling. Just as Jesus showed great compassion towards the broken and hurting, we are called to do the same. Rather than passing judgment or making assumptions about a person’s eternal destiny, we should seek to understand their pain and offer support.
God’s love and mercy extend far beyond our human understanding. He is intimately acquainted with our sorrows and weaknesses (Isaiah 53:3). The psalmist David, who experienced deep despair at various points in his life, cried out to God for deliverance and found comfort in His presence (Psalm 34:17-18, 42:11). God is not indifferent to the plight of those who suffer but offers comfort, healing, and hope.
Seeking Help and Support
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it is crucial to seek help immediately. Reach out to local authorities, crisis hotlines, or mental health professionals who can provide the necessary support and resources. Suicide is a serious matter that requires professional intervention and care.
The Christian community should also play a vital role in supporting individuals who are facing mental health challenges. We must create safe spaces where people can openly share their struggles without fear of judgment or condemnation. By offering love, understanding, and practical assistance, we can help individuals find hope, healing, and the support they need to navigate their difficult circumstances.
The Mystery of God’s Judgment
While the Bible provides clear guidance on the sanctity of life and the consequences of sin, it does not specifically address the eternal destiny of individuals who die by suicide. It is not our place to make definitive judgments about a person’s salvation, as only God knows the depths of one’s heart and the intricacies of their relationship with Him (1 Samuel 16:7).
God’s justice and mercy extend beyond our limited understanding. He alone is the righteous judge who weighs the motives, intentions, and circumstances of each individual. It is not for us to determine the eternal destiny of someone who has taken their own life. Instead, we should entrust them to the loving and just judgment of God.
The Call to Hope and Restoration
As followers of Christ, we are called to be instruments of hope and restoration in a broken world. We must proclaim the message of God’s love, forgiveness, and redemption to all who are suffering, including those contemplating suicide. Our role is to offer a glimmer of hope in the midst of despair and to point individuals towards the transformative power of Christ’s love and grace.
By demonstrating Christ’s compassion, actively listening, and providing practical support, we can help individuals find the strength to overcome their struggles and discover the hope that lies in a personal relationship with Jesus. Let us be a beacon of light in the darkness and extend God’s love to all who are hurting.
The Heart and the Lordship of Christ
Repeated contemplation of suicide can be viewed as practicing sin in one’s heart (Proverbs 23:7). The Bible states that those who are born of God do not practice sin (1 John 3:9). Additionally, suicide can be seen as an act of rejecting the lordship of Jesus Christ, as it involves taking one’s life into one’s own hands instead of submitting to God’s will. It is crucial to approach these theological considerations with compassion and understanding, recognizing the complexities of mental and emotional anguish.
Providing Hope and Support
When confronted with the reality of suicide, it is vital to extend love, empathy, and support to individuals struggling with despair. Rather than engaging in debates about the eternal fate of those who have taken their own lives, the focus should be on offering comfort and assistance to those who are still living. The Bible reminds us that God can bring purpose and redemption out of even the most painful circumstances (Romans 8:28). By embodying God’s love and extending a helping hand, we can offer hope to those who feel trapped in darkness.
Seeking Help and Community of Believers
In times of deep despair, it is essential to reach out for help. God has provided His children with means of support and healing through His Word, the Holy Spirit, and the community of believers. By engaging in prayer, studying Scripture, and seeking guidance from trusted individuals, individuals can find solace and strength in their faith journey. It is also important to encourage open and honest conversations about mental health within the church, fostering an environment of understanding and compassion.
Conclusion
As Christians, we should not commit suicide. The Bible addresses the topic of suicide with a mix of compassion, caution, and theological considerations. While suicide is viewed as a grave/mortal sin, the Bible also emphasizes God’s forgiveness for all sins through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. As Christians, we are called to offer hope, support, and understanding to those struggling with thoughts of suicide. By embodying the love and grace of God, we can help individuals find solace, healing, and renewed purpose in their lives. Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately.
The question of whether a Christian who commits suicide can still be saved is complex and deeply personal. While suicide is a grave sin that rejects God’s gift of life, salvation is ultimately determined by God’s grace and not our works. We should approach this topic with compassion, recognizing the complexities of mental health struggles and the need for support and understanding within the Christian community.
As we navigate this sensitive issue, let us remember the assurance of our salvation in Christ, the reality of human suffering, and the importance of extending love and hope to those who are struggling. By offering support, seeking professional help, and pointing others to the transformative power of God’s love, we can be agents of healing and restoration in a broken world. Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately.
Is Suicide a Sin?
Exodus 20:13 You shall not murder.
1 Corinthians 3:16-17 Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.
Ecclesiastes 7:17 Be not overly wicked, neither be a fool. Why should you die before your time?
Proverbs 11:21 Be assured, an evil person will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will be delivered.
Isaiah 13:11 I will punish the world for its evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; I will put an end to the pomp of the arrogant, and lay low the pompous pride of the ruthless.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:38-39 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Matthew 10:28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
Group 1 – Is Suicide a Sin
Psalm 147:3 He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
John 10:28-29 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.
1 Corinthians 6:20 For you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
1 Corinthians 3:17 If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.
Psalm 13:2-4 How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in my heart all the day? How long shall my enemy be exalted over me? Consider and answer me, O Lord my God; light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death, lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed over him,” lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken.
Group 2 – Is Suicide a Sin
John 12:25 Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.
Romans 8:38-39 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
2 Samuel 17:23 When Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled his donkey and went off home to his own city. He set his house in order and hanged himself, and he died and was buried in the tomb of his father.
1 John 3:15 Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
Romans 10:13 For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
John 10:28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.
Deuteronomy 30:19 I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live,
Group 3 – Is Suicide a Sin
Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Romans 5:2-8 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. …
Isaiah 41:10 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Mark 16:16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
Revelation 9:6 And in those days people will seek death and will not find it. They will long to die, but death will flee from them.
Group 4 – Is Suicide a Sin
2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.
Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;
Jeremiah 20:14-18 Cursed be the day on which I was born! The day when my mother bore me, let it not be blessed! Cursed be the man who brought the news to my father, “A son is born to you,” making him very glad. Let that man be like the cities that the Lord overthrew without pity; let him hear a cry in the morning and an alarm at noon, because he did not kill me in the womb; so my mother would have been my grave, and her womb forever great. Why did I come out from the womb to see toil and sorrow, and spend my days in shame?
Group 5 – Is Suicide a Sin
Psalm 118:17 I shall not die, but I shall live, and recount the deeds of the Lord.
John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Job 7:15-16 So that I would choose strangling and death rather than my bones. I loathe my life; I would not live forever. Leave me alone, for my days are a breath.
1 Kings 16:15-20 In the twenty-seventh year of Asa king of Judah, Zimri reigned seven days in Tirzah. Now the troops were encamped against Gibbethon, which belonged to the Philistines, and the troops who were encamped heard it said, “Zimri has conspired, and he has killed the king.” Therefore all Israel made Omri, the commander of the army, king over Israel that day in the camp. So Omri went up from Gibbethon, and all Israel with him, and they besieged Tirzah. And when Zimri saw that the city was taken, he went into the citadel of the king’s house and burned the king’s house over him with fire and died, because of his sins that he committed, doing evil in the sight of the Lord, walking in the way of Jeroboam, and for his sin which he committed, making Israel to sin. …
Group 6 – Is Suicide a Sin
Proverbs 11:17 A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.
Matthew 27:3-5 Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, saying, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” They said, “What is that to us? See to it yourself.” And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself.
Job 1:21 And he said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.”
Jonah 4:3 Therefore now, O Lord, please take my life from me, for it is better for me to die than to live.”
1 John 4:4 Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.
Group 7 – Is Suicide a Sin
Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Hebrews 9:27 And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment,
John 14:1 “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.
Judges 16:25-30 And when their hearts were merry, they said, “Call Samson, that he may entertain us.” So they called Samson out of the prison, and he entertained them. They made him stand between the pillars. And Samson said to the young man who held him by the hand, “Let me feel the pillars on which the house rests, that I may lean against them.” Now the house was full of men and women. All the lords of the Philistines were there, and on the roof there were about 3,000 men and women, who looked on while Samson entertained. Then Samson called to the Lord and said, “O Lord God, please remember me and please strengthen me only this once, O God, that I may be avenged on the Philistines for my two eyes.” …
Group 8 – Is Suicide a Sin
Isaiah 40:31 But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Hebrews 13:5-6 Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?”
1 Peter 5:6-7 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.
Judges 9:50-55 Then Abimelech went to Thebez and encamped against Thebez and captured it. But there was a strong tower within the city, and all the men and women and all the leaders of the city fled to it and shut themselves in, and they went up to the roof of the tower. And Abimelech came to the tower and fought against it and drew near to the door of the tower to burn it with fire. And a certain woman threw an upper millstone on Abimelech’s head and crushed his skull. Then he called quickly to the young man his armor-bearer and said to him, “Draw your sword and kill me, lest they say of me, ‘A woman killed him.’” And his young man thrust him through, and he died. …
Group 9 – Is Suicide a Sin
Ephesians 5:29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church,
Romans 8:1-2 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.
Hebrews 10:35-36 Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.
Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
2 Corinthians 1:10 He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again.
Psalm 23:1-6 A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. …
Group 10 – Is Suicide a Sin
1 John 3:15 Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
Revelation 21:4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Romans 8:28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
1 Kings 19:1-21 Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, “So may the gods do to me and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by this time tomorrow.” Then he was afraid, and he arose and ran for his life and came to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there. But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he asked that he might die, saying, “It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers.” …
Group 11 – Is Suicide a Sin
Job 10:12 You have granted me life and steadfast love, and your care has preserved my spirit.
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
1 Samuel 31:3-5 The battle pressed hard against Saul, and the archers found him, and he was badly wounded by the archers. Then Saul said to his armor-bearer, “Draw your sword, and thrust me through with it, lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and mistreat me.” But his armor-bearer would not, for he feared greatly. Therefore Saul took his own sword and fell upon it. And when his armor-bearer saw that Saul was dead, he also fell upon his sword and died with him.
Hebrews 11:1-40 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation. By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he was commended as righteous, God commending him by accepting his gifts. And through his faith, though he died, he still speaks. By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God. …
Group 12 – Is Suicide a Sin
John 5:24 Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.
Psalm 30:8-12 To you, O Lord, I cry, and to the Lord I plead for mercy: “What profit is there in my death, if I go down to the pit? Will the dust praise you? Will it tell of your faithfulness? Hear, O Lord, and be merciful to me! O Lord, be my helper!” You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, that my glory may sing your praise and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever!
Philippians 1:6 And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Psalm 42:5 Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation
Job 30:23 For I know that you will bring me to death and to the house appointed for all living.
Deuteronomy 32:39 “‘See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god beside me; I kill and I make alive; I wound and I heal; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand.
Genesis 2:7 Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.
Group 13 – Is Suicide a Sin
Joshua 2:24 And they said to Joshua, “Truly the Lord has given all the land into our hands. And also, all the inhabitants of the land melt away because of us.”
Colossians 2:13-14 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.
Luke 1:37 For nothing will be impossible with God.”
Colossians 1:1-29 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father. We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, …
Group 14 – Is Suicide a Sin
Exodus 33:14 And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
1 Peter 4:6-5:10 For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does. The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: …
Genesis 28:15 Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land. For I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”
Psalm 94:1-23 O Lord, God of vengeance, O God of vengeance, shine forth! Rise up, O judge of the earth; repay to the proud what they deserve! O Lord, how long shall the wicked, how long shall the wicked exult? They pour out their arrogant words; all the evildoers boast. They crush your people, O Lord, and afflict your heritage. …
Group 15 – Is Suicide a Sin
Isaiah 55:6-11 “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, …
Psalm 138:7-139:24 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand delivers me. The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands. To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. …
Group 16 – Is Suicide a Sin
2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!
Job 18:4-19:29 You who tear yourself in your anger, shall the earth be forsaken for you, or the rock be removed out of its place? “Indeed, the light of the wicked is put out, and the flame of his fire does not shine. The light is dark in his tent, and his lamp above him is put out. His strong steps are shortened, and his own schemes throw him down. For he is cast into a net by his own feet, and he walks on its mesh. …
Psalm 71:9-20 Do not cast me off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength is spent. For my enemies speak concerning me; those who watch for my life consult together and say, “God has forsaken him; pursue and seize him, for there is none to deliver him.” O God, be not far from me; O my God, make haste to help me! May my accusers be put to shame and consumed; with scorn and disgrace may they be covered who seek my hurt. …
Group 17 – Is Suicide a Sin
Proverbs 23:1-35 When you sit down to eat with a ruler, observe carefully what is before you, and put a knife to your throat if you are given to appetite. Do not desire his delicacies, for they are deceptive food. Do not toil to acquire wealth; be discerning enough to desist. When your eyes light on it, it is gone, for suddenly it sprouts wings, flying like an eagle toward heaven. …
Proverbs 8:32-36 “And now, O sons, listen to me: blessed are those who keep my ways. Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it. Blessed is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors. For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord, but he who fails to find me injures himself; all who hate me love death.”
James 1:2-12 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. …
Group 18 – Is Suicide a Sin
Psalm 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
Psalm 34:1-35:28 Of David, when he changed his behavior before Abimelech, so that he drove him out, and he went away. I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together! I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed. …
2 Peter 2:9-12 Then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment, and especially those who indulge in the lust of defiling passion and despise authority. Bold and willful, they do not tremble as they blaspheme the glorious ones, whereas angels, though greater in might and power, do not pronounce a blasphemous judgment against them before the Lord. But these, like irrational animals, creatures of instinct, born to be caught and destroyed, blaspheming about matters of which they are ignorant, will also be destroyed in their destruction,
Group 19 – Is Suicide a Sin
Job 10:1-11:20 “I loathe my life; I will give free utterance to my complaint; I will speak in the bitterness of my soul. I will say to God, Do not condemn me; let me know why you contend against me. Does it seem good to you to oppress, to despise the work of your hands and favor the designs of the wicked? Have you eyes of flesh? Do you see as man sees? Are your days as the days of man, or your years as a man’s years, …
Psalm 34:17-20 When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all. He keeps all his bones; not one of them is broken.
Hebrews 2:1-3:19 Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard, while God also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will. For it was not to angels that God subjected the world to come, of which we are speaking. …
Group 20 – Is Suicide a Sin
Ephesians 1:4-5 Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will,
Philippians 1:21-27 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, …
Romans 10:3-12:1 For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. For Moses writes about the righteousness that is based on the law, that the person who does the commandments shall live by them. But the righteousness based on faith says, “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’” (that is, to bring Christ down) “or ‘Who will descend into the abyss?’” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). …
Group 21 – Is Suicide a Sin
Acts 16:20-31 And when they had brought them to the magistrates, they said, “These men are Jews, and they are disturbing our city. They advocate customs that are not lawful for us as Romans to accept or practice.” The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods. And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them safely. Having received this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. …
Isaiah 51:7-52:7 “Listen to me, you who know righteousness, the people in whose heart is my law; fear not the reproach of man, nor be dismayed at their revilings. For the moth will eat them up like a garment, and the worm will eat them like wool, but my righteousness will be forever, and my salvation to all generations.” Awake, awake, put on strength, O arm of the Lord; awake, as in days of old, the generations of long ago. Was it not you who cut Rahab in pieces, who pierced the dragon? Was it not you who dried up the sea, the waters of the great deep, who made the depths of the sea a way for the redeemed to pass over? And the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; …
Group 22 – Is Suicide a Sin
Isaiah 28:15-22 Because you have said, “We have made a covenant with death, and with Sheol we have an agreement, when the overwhelming whip passes through it will not come to us, for we have made lies our refuge, and in falsehood we have taken shelter”; therefore thus says the Lord God, “Behold, I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation: ‘Whoever believes will not be in haste.’ And I will make justice the line, and righteousness the plumb line; and hail will sweep away the refuge of lies, and waters will overwhelm the shelter.” Then your covenant with death will be annulled, and your agreement with Sheol will not stand; when the overwhelming scourge passes through, you will be beaten down by it. …
Luke 17:33-18:1 Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will keep it. I tell you, in that night there will be two in one bed. One will be taken and the other left. There will be two women grinding together. One will be taken and the other left.” And they said to him, “Where, Lord?” He said to them, “Where the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.” And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.
Group 23 – Is Suicide a Sin
Proverbs 10:18-11:8 The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever utters slander is a fool. When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver; the heart of the wicked is of little worth. The lips of the righteous feed many, but fools die for lack of sense. The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it. …
Job 28:13-29:2 Man does not know its worth, and it is not found in the land of the living. The deep says, ‘It is not in me,’ and the sea says, ‘It is not with me.’ It cannot be bought for gold, and silver cannot be weighed as its price. It cannot be valued in the gold of Ophir, in precious onyx or sapphire. Gold and glass cannot equal it, nor can it be exchanged for jewels of fine gold. …
Proverbs 1:19-2:22 Such are the ways of everyone who is greedy for unjust gain; it takes away the life of its possessors. Wisdom cries aloud in the street, in the markets she raises her voice; at the head of the noisy streets she cries out; at the entrance of the city gates she speaks: “How long, O simple ones, will you love being simple? How long will scoffers delight in their scoffing and fools hate knowledge? If you turn at my reproof, behold, I will pour out my spirit to you; I will make my words known to you. …
If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved? Suicide is a deeply tragic and complex issue that affects individuals from all walks of life, including Christians. It raises profound questions about faith, salvation, and the eternal destiny of those who take their own lives. While there are varying beliefs within Christian communities, it is crucial to approach this topic with compassion, understanding, and a commitment to biblical truth. In this article, we will explore the question: If a Christian commits suicide, is he/she still saved? We will examine the perspectives and insights from a Biblical point of view to shed light on this sensitive subject.
Suicide is the act of causing one’s own death intentionally; or it is the act of killing one’s self intentionally. In life, we often face hardship, difficulties, and challenges that lead to much despair. When grappling with such profound despair, many people turn to their faith for guidance and solace. For Christians, the Bible serves as a source of wisdom, encouragement, and insight on various aspects of life, including suicide. In this article, we will explore what the Bible says about suicide, examining different perspectives and passages that shed light on this sensitive issue.
If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved?
Analysis from a Biblical Perspective
Suicide is a grave sin, as it involves the intentional taking of one’s own life. The Bible clearly states, “You must not murder” (Exodus 20:13), and Jesus reaffirmed this commandment (Matthew 19:18). By ending their own life, a person rejects God’s gift of life and assumes authority over matters of life and death that belong solely to God. Suicide is a tragic act that leaves behind immense pain and suffering for the person’s loved ones.
However, it is essential to recognize that salvation is not contingent upon our works, including the act of suicide. Our salvation rests solely on the grace and mercy of God through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:1-10; Titus 3:5). No sin, including suicide, can separate a true believer from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39). Salvation is not earned by our actions but received by faith in Christ’s atoning sacrifice.
Understanding Suicide in Biblical Context
To comprehend the Bible’s stance on suicide, we must consider the broader context of its teachings. From the very beginning, the Bible emphasizes the sanctity of life. In the Ten Commandments, God commands, “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13). This commandment establishes the inherent value of human life and condemns the taking of another person’s life. It’s equally clear that suicide is murder of yourself, an act which is biblically condemned. Behold, no one is to stop their own life. The Lord God Almighty decides when we are going to be born, He is the giver of life and He numbers our days. Life is a precious gift from God.
In the Bible, we read of about 5 different people that took their own life. Also, there are around 5 people in the Bible that despaired to the point of death but did not take their own life, one of those being Jesus. Jonah said, “it is better for me to die than to live”. Solomon said, “I hated life”. Paul said he was burdened beyond his strength and despaired of life itself. A close look reveals that the difference between these people and the biblical people who executed themselves seems to have been their relationship with God. When going through desperate moments in life, pray and seek God for comfort.
I Corinthians 10:13 says, The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
Is Suicide a Sin?
Brethren, suicide is “self-murder,” and as such it is a sin since murder is a sin. Aside from the “do not commit murder” command given by God to His people, suicide is also a sin for the following theological and practical reasons: (1) it is God and God alone who has the right to determine life and death, and (2) suicide reveals a belief that God is not powerful enough to help you solve your problems. Beloved, irrespective of what you are going through, God is willing and ready to help you. Do not lose hope but trust in God for strength, love, and guidance. As Christians, we know that in Christ there is hope. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 says, “Our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father loved us and through grace gave us eternal comfort and a good hope. May he encourage your hearts and give you strength in every good thing you do or say.”
Suicide as Self-Murder
When contemplating suicide, it is crucial to realize that, from a biblical perspective, it is considered self-murder. Just as God is the only one who has the authority to determine the timing and manner of our deaths, suicide rejects His gift of life. By taking one’s own life, a person assumes God’s authority, which is a grave sin in the eyes of the Bible.
Examples of Suicide in the Bible
Throughout the Bible, there are accounts of individuals who took their own lives. While these stories provide insights into the consequences and complexities surrounding suicide, it is essential to approach them with sensitivity and compassion.
1. King Saul (1 Samuel 31:3-4)
The Philistines were in war with Israel, and the Israelites fled before the Philistines and fell slain on Mount Gilboa. It was then that the Philistines overtook king Saul and his sons. The Philistines killed Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchi-shua, the sons of king Saul. The battle pressed hard against king Saul, and the archers shot arrows at him, and he was badly wounded. Then king Saul said to his armor-bearer “Draw your sword, and thrust me through with it, lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and mistreat me.” But his armor-bearer could not because he was afraid to do so. Therefore, king Saul took his own sword and fell upon it and he died.
2. Saul’s Armor-bearer (1 Samuel 31:5)
When king Saul’s armor-bearer saw that king Saul had fallen on his sword to kill himself and he was dead, he equally drew his sword and fell upon it and died with him. And as such, Saul and his armor-bearer committed suicide on the same day.
3. Ahithophel
Ahithophel, once a close companion of David and the grandfather of Bathsheba, sided with Absalom in a rebellion against David. When his counsel was not heeded, Ahithophel, out of fear, rejection, or hopelessness, chose to hang himself (2 Samuel 17:23). His decision highlights the devastation that can arise from a sense of betrayal and despair.
4) Zimri (1 Kings 16:15-20)
In the 27th year of Asa King of Judah, Zimri reigned seven days in Tirzah. The troops of Israel were encamped against the Philistine town of Gibbethon. In their encampment, they heard that Zimri had conspired, and he had killed the king. As a result, all Israel made Omri, the commander of the army, king over Israel that day in the camp. Omri went up from Gibbethon, and all Israel with him, and they besieged Tirzah. When King Zimri saw that the city was taken, he went into the citadel of the king’s house and burned the king’s house over him with fire and died.
5) Judas Iscariot (Matthew 27:3-5)
When Judas, the betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the 30 pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, and said, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” And they also replied, “What is that to us? See to it yourself.” And throwing down the 30 pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself.
Suicide and the Question of Salvation
One of the most pressing concerns for Christians grappling with suicide is its impact on salvation. The Bible assures believers that their salvation is secure in Christ, and nothing can separate them from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39). However, when it comes to suicide, there are differing interpretations and perspectives.
The Forgiveness of Sins
The Bible teaches that forgiveness is available for all sins, including suicide. Through the mercy and merits of Jesus Christ, believers are granted forgiveness for their past, present, and future transgressions (Colossians 2:13-14). As such, and knowing that Jesus died for all our sins (1 John 2:2), some Biblical scholars believe and teach that if a true Christian were to commit suicide amidst a moment of spiritual attack and extreme weakness, his or her sin is still covered by the blood of Jesus Christ.
Faith and Salvation
While suicide can be forgiven, some question the faith of those who contemplate or commit this act. The Bible describes God’s children as those who have hope and purpose in life (Acts 24:15; Romans 5:2-5, 8:24; 2 Corinthians 1:10). Those who consider suicide often experience a profound lack of hope and purpose. It is important to encourage individuals facing such thoughts to examine their relationship with God and seek the support of their faith community.
The Assurance of Salvation for Believers in Christ
Once a person genuinely accepts Christ as their Savior, they are eternally secure in their salvation. The Bible offers numerous assurances of this truth. In 1 Peter 1:3-5, it declares that our inheritance in heaven is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. It is kept safe by the power of God, and nothing can snatch us out of His hand (John 10:28). The Holy Spirit is given as a seal, guaranteeing our redemption until the day of Christ’s return (Ephesians 1:13-14, 4:30).
These promises reveal that our salvation is not dependent on our own efforts or ability to maintain our faith. It is grounded in the finished work of Christ and secured by the faithfulness of God. Even in moments of despair or weakness, when a person may contemplate suicide, the grip of God’s grace remains steadfast.
The Reality of Mental Health and Despair
It is essential to approach the topic of suicide with sensitivity and understanding, particularly when considering the mental health challenges that individuals may face. Depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses can cloud a person’s judgment, distort their perception of reality, and intensify feelings of hopelessness. Christians are not immune to these struggles.
The Bible acknowledges the reality of human suffering and the depths of despair. Many biblical figures, such as Job, Jeremiah, and Jonah, experienced profound anguish and wrestled with thoughts of death. Their stories highlight the complexities of human emotions and the need for compassion and support within the Christian community.
God’s Compassion and Understanding
In times of darkness and despair, it is crucial for Christians to extend compassion, love, and hope to those who are struggling. Just as Jesus showed great compassion towards the broken and hurting, we are called to do the same. Rather than passing judgment or making assumptions about a person’s eternal destiny, we should seek to understand their pain and offer support.
God’s love and mercy extend far beyond our human understanding. He is intimately acquainted with our sorrows and weaknesses (Isaiah 53:3). The psalmist David, who experienced deep despair at various points in his life, cried out to God for deliverance and found comfort in His presence (Psalm 34:17-18, 42:11). God is not indifferent to the plight of those who suffer but offers comfort, healing, and hope.
Seeking Help and Support
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it is crucial to seek help immediately. Reach out to local authorities, crisis hotlines, or mental health professionals who can provide the necessary support and resources. Suicide is a serious matter that requires professional intervention and care.
The Christian community should also play a vital role in supporting individuals who are facing mental health challenges. We must create safe spaces where people can openly share their struggles without fear of judgment or condemnation. By offering love, understanding, and practical assistance, we can help individuals find hope, healing, and the support they need to navigate their difficult circumstances.
The Mystery of God’s Judgment
While the Bible provides clear guidance on the sanctity of life and the consequences of sin, it does not specifically address the eternal destiny of individuals who die by suicide. It is not our place to make definitive judgments about a person’s salvation, as only God knows the depths of one’s heart and the intricacies of their relationship with Him (1 Samuel 16:7).
God’s justice and mercy extend beyond our limited understanding. He alone is the righteous judge who weighs the motives, intentions, and circumstances of each individual. It is not for us to determine the eternal destiny of someone who has taken their own life. Instead, we should entrust them to the loving and just judgment of God.
The Call to Hope and Restoration
As followers of Christ, we are called to be instruments of hope and restoration in a broken world. We must proclaim the message of God’s love, forgiveness, and redemption to all who are suffering, including those contemplating suicide. Our role is to offer a glimmer of hope in the midst of despair and to point individuals towards the transformative power of Christ’s love and grace.
By demonstrating Christ’s compassion, actively listening, and providing practical support, we can help individuals find the strength to overcome their struggles and discover the hope that lies in a personal relationship with Jesus. Let us be a beacon of light in the darkness and extend God’s love to all who are hurting.
The Heart and the Lordship of Christ
Repeated contemplation of suicide can be viewed as practicing sin in one’s heart (Proverbs 23:7). The Bible states that those who are born of God do not practice sin (1 John 3:9). Additionally, suicide can be seen as an act of rejecting the lordship of Jesus Christ, as it involves taking one’s life into one’s own hands instead of submitting to God’s will. It is crucial to approach these theological considerations with compassion and understanding, recognizing the complexities of mental and emotional anguish.
Providing Hope and Support
When confronted with the reality of suicide, it is vital to extend love, empathy, and support to individuals struggling with despair. Rather than engaging in debates about the eternal fate of those who have taken their own lives, the focus should be on offering comfort and assistance to those who are still living. The Bible reminds us that God can bring purpose and redemption out of even the most painful circumstances (Romans 8:28). By embodying God’s love and extending a helping hand, we can offer hope to those who feel trapped in darkness.
Seeking Help and Community of Believers
In times of deep despair, it is essential to reach out for help. God has provided His children with means of support and healing through His Word, the Holy Spirit, and the community of believers. By engaging in prayer, studying Scripture, and seeking guidance from trusted individuals, individuals can find solace and strength in their faith journey. It is also important to encourage open and honest conversations about mental health within the church, fostering an environment of understanding and compassion.
Conclusion
As Christians, we should not commit suicide. The Bible addresses the topic of suicide with a mix of compassion, caution, and theological considerations. While suicide is viewed as a grave/mortal sin, the Bible also emphasizes God’s forgiveness for all sins through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. As Christians, we are called to offer hope, support, and understanding to those struggling with thoughts of suicide. By embodying the love and grace of God, we can help individuals find solace, healing, and renewed purpose in their lives. Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately.
The question of whether a Christian who commits suicide can still be saved is complex and deeply personal. While suicide is a grave sin that rejects God’s gift of life, salvation is ultimately determined by God’s grace and not our works. We should approach this topic with compassion, recognizing the complexities of mental health struggles and the need for support and understanding within the Christian community.
As we navigate this sensitive issue, let us remember the assurance of our salvation in Christ, the reality of human suffering, and the importance of extending love and hope to those who are struggling. By offering support, seeking professional help, and pointing others to the transformative power of God’s love, we can be agents of healing and restoration in a broken world. Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately.
If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved?
Exodus 20:13 You shall not murder.
1 Corinthians 3:16-17 Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.
Ecclesiastes 7:17 Be not overly wicked, neither be a fool. Why should you die before your time?
Proverbs 11:21 Be assured, an evil person will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will be delivered.
Isaiah 13:11 I will punish the world for its evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; I will put an end to the pomp of the arrogant, and lay low the pompous pride of the ruthless.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:38-39 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Matthew 10:28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
Group 1 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
John 10:28-29 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.
1 Corinthians 6:20 For you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
1 Corinthians 3:17 If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.
Psalm 13:2-4 How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in my heart all the day? How long shall my enemy be exalted over me? Consider and answer me, O Lord my God; light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death, lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed over him,” lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken.
Psalm 147:3 He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
Group 2 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
John 12:25 Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.
Romans 8:38-39 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
2 Samuel 17:23 When Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled his donkey and went off home to his own city. He set his house in order and hanged himself, and he died and was buried in the tomb of his father.
1 John 3:15 Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
Romans 10:13 For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
John 10:28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.
Deuteronomy 30:19 I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live,
Group 3 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Romans 5:2-8 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. …
Isaiah 41:10 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Mark 16:16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
Revelation 9:6 And in those days people will seek death and will not find it. They will long to die, but death will flee from them.
Group 4 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;
Jeremiah 20:14-18 Cursed be the day on which I was born! The day when my mother bore me, let it not be blessed! Cursed be the man who brought the news to my father, “A son is born to you,” making him very glad. Let that man be like the cities that the Lord overthrew without pity; let him hear a cry in the morning and an alarm at noon, because he did not kill me in the womb; so my mother would have been my grave, and her womb forever great. Why did I come out from the womb to see toil and sorrow, and spend my days in shame?
2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.
Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Group 5 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Psalm 118:17 I shall not die, but I shall live, and recount the deeds of the Lord.
John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Job 7:15-16 So that I would choose strangling and death rather than my bones. I loathe my life; I would not live forever. Leave me alone, for my days are a breath.
1 Kings 16:15-20 In the twenty-seventh year of Asa king of Judah, Zimri reigned seven days in Tirzah. Now the troops were encamped against Gibbethon, which belonged to the Philistines, and the troops who were encamped heard it said, “Zimri has conspired, and he has killed the king.” Therefore all Israel made Omri, the commander of the army, king over Israel that day in the camp. So Omri went up from Gibbethon, and all Israel with him, and they besieged Tirzah. And when Zimri saw that the city was taken, he went into the citadel of the king’s house and burned the king’s house over him with fire and died, because of his sins that he committed, doing evil in the sight of the Lord, walking in the way of Jeroboam, and for his sin which he committed, making Israel to sin. …
Group 6 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Proverbs 11:17 A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.
Matthew 27:3-5 Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, saying, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” They said, “What is that to us? See to it yourself.” And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself.
Job 1:21 And he said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.”
Jonah 4:3 Therefore now, O Lord, please take my life from me, for it is better for me to die than to live.”
1 John 4:4 Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.
Group 7 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Judges 16:25-30 And when their hearts were merry, they said, “Call Samson, that he may entertain us.” So they called Samson out of the prison, and he entertained them. They made him stand between the pillars. And Samson said to the young man who held him by the hand, “Let me feel the pillars on which the house rests, that I may lean against them.” Now the house was full of men and women. All the lords of the Philistines were there, and on the roof there were about 3,000 men and women, who looked on while Samson entertained. Then Samson called to the Lord and said, “O Lord God, please remember me and please strengthen me only this once, O God, that I may be avenged on the Philistines for my two eyes.” …
Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Hebrews 9:27 And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment,
John 14:1 “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.
Group 8 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Isaiah 40:31 But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Hebrews 13:5-6 Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?”
1 Peter 5:6-7 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.
Judges 9:50-55 Then Abimelech went to Thebez and encamped against Thebez and captured it. But there was a strong tower within the city, and all the men and women and all the leaders of the city fled to it and shut themselves in, and they went up to the roof of the tower. And Abimelech came to the tower and fought against it and drew near to the door of the tower to burn it with fire. And a certain woman threw an upper millstone on Abimelech’s head and crushed his skull. Then he called quickly to the young man his armor-bearer and said to him, “Draw your sword and kill me, lest they say of me, ‘A woman killed him.’” And his young man thrust him through, and he died. …
Group 9 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Ephesians 5:29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church,
Romans 8:1-2 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.
Hebrews 10:35-36 Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.
Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
2 Corinthians 1:10 He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again.
Psalm 23:1-6 A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. …
Group 10 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
1 Kings 19:1-21 Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, “So may the gods do to me and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by this time tomorrow.” Then he was afraid, and he arose and ran for his life and came to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there. But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he asked that he might die, saying, “It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers.” …
1 John 3:15 Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
Revelation 21:4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Romans 8:28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Group 11 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Job 10:12 You have granted me life and steadfast love, and your care has preserved my spirit.
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
1 Samuel 31:3-5 The battle pressed hard against Saul, and the archers found him, and he was badly wounded by the archers. Then Saul said to his armor-bearer, “Draw your sword, and thrust me through with it, lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and mistreat me.” But his armor-bearer would not, for he feared greatly. Therefore Saul took his own sword and fell upon it. And when his armor-bearer saw that Saul was dead, he also fell upon his sword and died with him.
Hebrews 11:1-40 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation. By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he was commended as righteous, God commending him by accepting his gifts. And through his faith, though he died, he still speaks. By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God. …
Group 12 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
John 5:24 Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.
Psalm 30:8-12 To you, O Lord, I cry, and to the Lord I plead for mercy: “What profit is there in my death, if I go down to the pit? Will the dust praise you? Will it tell of your faithfulness? Hear, O Lord, and be merciful to me! O Lord, be my helper!” You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, that my glory may sing your praise and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever!
Philippians 1:6 And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Psalm 42:5 Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation
Job 30:23 For I know that you will bring me to death and to the house appointed for all living.
Deuteronomy 32:39 “‘See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god beside me; I kill and I make alive; I wound and I heal; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand.
Genesis 2:7 Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.
Group 13 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Joshua 2:24 And they said to Joshua, “Truly the Lord has given all the land into our hands. And also, all the inhabitants of the land melt away because of us.”
Colossians 2:13-14 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.
Luke 1:37 For nothing will be impossible with God.”
Colossians 1:1-29 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father. We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, …
Group 14 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Genesis 28:15 Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land. For I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”
Psalm 94:1-23 O Lord, God of vengeance, O God of vengeance, shine forth! Rise up, O judge of the earth; repay to the proud what they deserve! O Lord, how long shall the wicked, how long shall the wicked exult? They pour out their arrogant words; all the evildoers boast. They crush your people, O Lord, and afflict your heritage. …
Exodus 33:14 And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
1 Peter 4:6-5:10 For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does. The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: …
Group 15 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Isaiah 55:6-11 “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, …
Psalm 138:7-139:24 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand delivers me. The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands. To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. …
Group 16 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!
Job 18:4-19:29 You who tear yourself in your anger, shall the earth be forsaken for you, or the rock be removed out of its place? “Indeed, the light of the wicked is put out, and the flame of his fire does not shine. The light is dark in his tent, and his lamp above him is put out. His strong steps are shortened, and his own schemes throw him down. For he is cast into a net by his own feet, and he walks on its mesh. …
Psalm 71:9-20 Do not cast me off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength is spent. For my enemies speak concerning me; those who watch for my life consult together and say, “God has forsaken him; pursue and seize him, for there is none to deliver him.” O God, be not far from me; O my God, make haste to help me! May my accusers be put to shame and consumed; with scorn and disgrace may they be covered who seek my hurt. …
Group 17 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
James 1:2-12 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. …
Proverbs 23:1-35 When you sit down to eat with a ruler, observe carefully what is before you, and put a knife to your throat if you are given to appetite. Do not desire his delicacies, for they are deceptive food. Do not toil to acquire wealth; be discerning enough to desist. When your eyes light on it, it is gone, for suddenly it sprouts wings, flying like an eagle toward heaven. …
Proverbs 8:32-36 “And now, O sons, listen to me: blessed are those who keep my ways. Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it. Blessed is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors. For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord, but he who fails to find me injures himself; all who hate me love death.”
Group 18 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Psalm 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
Psalm 34:1-35:28 Of David, when he changed his behavior before Abimelech, so that he drove him out, and he went away. I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together! I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed. …
2 Peter 2:9-12 Then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment, and especially those who indulge in the lust of defiling passion and despise authority. Bold and willful, they do not tremble as they blaspheme the glorious ones, whereas angels, though greater in might and power, do not pronounce a blasphemous judgment against them before the Lord. But these, like irrational animals, creatures of instinct, born to be caught and destroyed, blaspheming about matters of which they are ignorant, will also be destroyed in their destruction,
Group 19 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Job 10:1-11:20 “I loathe my life; I will give free utterance to my complaint; I will speak in the bitterness of my soul. I will say to God, Do not condemn me; let me know why you contend against me. Does it seem good to you to oppress, to despise the work of your hands and favor the designs of the wicked? Have you eyes of flesh? Do you see as man sees? Are your days as the days of man, or your years as a man’s years, …
Psalm 34:17-20 When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all. He keeps all his bones; not one of them is broken.
Hebrews 2:1-3:19 Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard, while God also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will. For it was not to angels that God subjected the world to come, of which we are speaking. …
Group 20 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Ephesians 1:4-5 Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will,
Philippians 1:21-27 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, …
Romans 10:3-12:1 For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. For Moses writes about the righteousness that is based on the law, that the person who does the commandments shall live by them. But the righteousness based on faith says, “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’” (that is, to bring Christ down) “or ‘Who will descend into the abyss?’” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). …
Group 21 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Isaiah 51:7-52:7 “Listen to me, you who know righteousness, the people in whose heart is my law; fear not the reproach of man, nor be dismayed at their revilings. For the moth will eat them up like a garment, and the worm will eat them like wool, but my righteousness will be forever, and my salvation to all generations.” Awake, awake, put on strength, O arm of the Lord; awake, as in days of old, the generations of long ago. Was it not you who cut Rahab in pieces, who pierced the dragon? Was it not you who dried up the sea, the waters of the great deep, who made the depths of the sea a way for the redeemed to pass over? And the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; …
Acts 16:20-31 And when they had brought them to the magistrates, they said, “These men are Jews, and they are disturbing our city. They advocate customs that are not lawful for us as Romans to accept or practice.” The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods. And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them safely. Having received this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. …
Group 22 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Isaiah 28:15-22 Because you have said, “We have made a covenant with death, and with Sheol we have an agreement, when the overwhelming whip passes through it will not come to us, for we have made lies our refuge, and in falsehood we have taken shelter”; therefore thus says the Lord God, “Behold, I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation: ‘Whoever believes will not be in haste.’ And I will make justice the line, and righteousness the plumb line; and hail will sweep away the refuge of lies, and waters will overwhelm the shelter.” Then your covenant with death will be annulled, and your agreement with Sheol will not stand; when the overwhelming scourge passes through, you will be beaten down by it. …
Luke 17:33-18:1 Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will keep it. I tell you, in that night there will be two in one bed. One will be taken and the other left. There will be two women grinding together. One will be taken and the other left.” And they said to him, “Where, Lord?” He said to them, “Where the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.” And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.
Group 23 – If a Christian Commits Suicide, is He/She Still Saved
Proverbs 1:19-2:22 Such are the ways of everyone who is greedy for unjust gain; it takes away the life of its possessors. Wisdom cries aloud in the street, in the markets she raises her voice; at the head of the noisy streets she cries out; at the entrance of the city gates she speaks: “How long, O simple ones, will you love being simple? How long will scoffers delight in their scoffing and fools hate knowledge? If you turn at my reproof, behold, I will pour out my spirit to you; I will make my words known to you. …
Proverbs 10:18-11:8 The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever utters slander is a fool. When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver; the heart of the wicked is of little worth. The lips of the righteous feed many, but fools die for lack of sense. The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it. …
Job 28:13-29:2 Man does not know its worth, and it is not found in the land of the living. The deep says, ‘It is not in me,’ and the sea says, ‘It is not with me.’ It cannot be bought for gold, and silver cannot be weighed as its price. It cannot be valued in the gold of Ophir, in precious onyx or sapphire. Gold and glass cannot equal it, nor can it be exchanged for jewels of fine gold. …
Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible? Suicide is a deeply complex and tragic topic that has affected individuals throughout history. Suicide is the act of causing one’s own death intentionally; or it is the act of killing one’s self intentionally. In life, we often face hardship, difficulties, and challenges that lead to much despair. When grappling with such profound despair, many people turn to their faith for guidance and solace. For Christians, the Bible serves as a source of wisdom, encouragement, and insight on various aspects of life, including suicide. In this article, we will explore what the Bible says about suicide, examining different perspectives and passages that shed light on this sensitive issue.
Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible?
Analysis from a Biblical Perspective
Understanding Suicide in Biblical Context
To comprehend the Bible’s stance on suicide, we must consider the broader context of its teachings. From the very beginning, the Bible emphasizes the sanctity of life. In the Ten Commandments, God commands, “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13). This commandment establishes the inherent value of human life and condemns the taking of another person’s life. It’s equally clear that suicide is murder of yourself, an act which is biblically condemned. Behold, no one is to stop their own life. The Lord God Almighty decides when we are going to be born, He is the giver of life and He numbers our days. Life is a precious gift from God.
In the Bible, we read of about 5 different people that took their own life. Also, there are around 5 people in the Bible that despaired to the point of death but did not take their own life, one of those being Jesus. Jonah said, “it is better for me to die than to live”. Solomon said, “I hated life”. Paul said he was burdened beyond his strength and despaired of life itself. A close look reveals that the difference between these people and the biblical people who executed themselves seems to have been their relationship with God. When going through desperate moments in life, pray and seek God for comfort.
I Corinthians 10:13 says, The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
Is Suicide a Sin?
Brethren, suicide is “self-murder,” and as such it is a sin since murder is a sin. Aside from the “do not commit murder” command given by God to His people, suicide is also a sin for the following theological and practical reasons: (1) it is God and God alone who has the right to determine life and death, and (2) suicide reveals a belief that God is not powerful enough to help you solve your problems. Beloved, irrespective of what you are going through, God is willing and ready to help you. Do not lose hope but trust in God for strength, love, and guidance. As Christians, we know that in Christ there is hope. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 says, “Our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father loved us and through grace gave us eternal comfort and a good hope. May he encourage your hearts and give you strength in every good thing you do or say.”
Suicide as Self-Murder
When contemplating suicide, it is crucial to realize that, from a biblical perspective, it is considered self-murder. Just as God is the only one who has the authority to determine the timing and manner of our deaths, suicide rejects His gift of life. By taking one’s own life, a person assumes God’s authority, which is a grave sin in the eyes of the Bible.
Examples of Suicide in the Bible
Throughout the Bible, there are accounts of individuals who took their own lives. While these stories provide insights into the consequences and complexities surrounding suicide, it is essential to approach them with sensitivity and compassion.
1. King Saul (1 Samuel 31:3-4)
The Philistines were in war with Israel, and the Israelites fled before the Philistines and fell slain on Mount Gilboa. It was then that the Philistines overtook king Saul and his sons. The Philistines killed Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchi-shua, the sons of king Saul. The battle pressed hard against king Saul, and the archers shot arrows at him, and he was badly wounded. Then king Saul said to his armor-bearer “Draw your sword, and thrust me through with it, lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and mistreat me.” But his armor-bearer could not because he was afraid to do so. Therefore, king Saul took his own sword and fell upon it and he died.
2. Saul’s Armor-bearer (1 Samuel 31:5)
When king Saul’s armor-bearer saw that king Saul had fallen on his sword to kill himself and he was dead, he equally drew his sword and fell upon it and died with him. And as such, Saul and his armor-bearer committed suicide on the same day.
3. Ahithophel
Ahithophel, once a close companion of David and the grandfather of Bathsheba, sided with Absalom in a rebellion against David. When his counsel was not heeded, Ahithophel, out of fear, rejection, or hopelessness, chose to hang himself (2 Samuel 17:23). His decision highlights the devastation that can arise from a sense of betrayal and despair.
4) Zimri (1 Kings 16:15-20)
In the 27th year of Asa King of Judah, Zimri reigned seven days in Tirzah. The troops of Israel were encamped against the Philistine town of Gibbethon. In their encampment, they heard that Zimri had conspired, and he had killed the king. As a result, all Israel made Omri, the commander of the army, king over Israel that day in the camp. Omri went up from Gibbethon, and all Israel with him, and they besieged Tirzah. When King Zimri saw that the city was taken, he went into the citadel of the king’s house and burned the king’s house over him with fire and died.
5) Judas Iscariot (Matthew 27:3-5)
When Judas, the betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the 30 pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, and said, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” And they also replied, “What is that to us? See to it yourself.” And throwing down the 30 pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself.
Suicide and the Question of Salvation
One of the most pressing concerns for Christians grappling with suicide is its impact on salvation. The Bible assures believers that their salvation is secure in Christ, and nothing can separate them from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39). However, when it comes to suicide, there are differing interpretations and perspectives.
The Forgiveness of Sins
The Bible teaches that forgiveness is available for all sins, including suicide. Through the mercy and merits of Jesus Christ, believers are granted forgiveness for their past, present, and future transgressions (Colossians 2:13-14). As such, and knowing that Jesus died for all our sins (1 John 2:2), some Biblical scholars believe and teach that if a true Christian were to commit suicide amidst a moment of spiritual attack and extreme weakness, his or her sin is still covered by the blood of Jesus Christ.
Faith and Salvation
While suicide can be forgiven, some question the faith of those who contemplate or commit this act. The Bible describes God’s children as those who have hope and purpose in life (Acts 24:15; Romans 5:2-5, 8:24; 2 Corinthians 1:10). Those who consider suicide often experience a profound lack of hope and purpose. It is important to encourage individuals facing such thoughts to examine their relationship with God and seek the support of their faith community.
The Heart and the Lordship of Christ
Repeated contemplation of suicide can be viewed as practicing sin in one’s heart (Proverbs 23:7). The Bible states that those who are born of God do not practice sin (1 John 3:9). Additionally, suicide can be seen as an act of rejecting the lordship of Jesus Christ, as it involves taking one’s life into one’s own hands instead of submitting to God’s will. It is crucial to approach these theological considerations with compassion and understanding, recognizing the complexities of mental and emotional anguish.
Providing Hope and Support
When confronted with the reality of suicide, it is vital to extend love, empathy, and support to individuals struggling with despair. Rather than engaging in debates about the eternal fate of those who have taken their own lives, the focus should be on offering comfort and assistance to those who are still living. The Bible reminds us that God can bring purpose and redemption out of even the most painful circumstances (Romans 8:28). By embodying God’s love and extending a helping hand, we can offer hope to those who feel trapped in darkness.
Seeking Help and Community of Believers
In times of deep despair, it is essential to reach out for help. God has provided His children with means of support and healing through His Word, the Holy Spirit, and the community of believers. By engaging in prayer, studying Scripture, and seeking guidance from trusted individuals, individuals can find solace and strength in their faith journey. It is also important to encourage open and honest conversations about mental health within the church, fostering an environment of understanding and compassion.
Conclusion
As Christians, we should not commit suicide. The Bible addresses the topic of suicide with a mix of compassion, caution, and theological considerations. While suicide is viewed as a grave/mortal sin, the Bible also emphasizes God’s forgiveness for all sins through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. As Christians, we are called to offer hope, support, and understanding to those struggling with thoughts of suicide. By embodying the love and grace of God, we can help individuals find solace, healing, and renewed purpose in their lives. Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately.
Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible?
Exodus 20:13 You shall not murder.
1 Corinthians 3:16-17 Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.
Ecclesiastes 7:17 Be not overly wicked, neither be a fool. Why should you die before your time?
Proverbs 11:21 Be assured, an evil person will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will be delivered.
Isaiah 13:11 I will punish the world for its evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; I will put an end to the pomp of the arrogant, and lay low the pompous pride of the ruthless.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:38-39 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Matthew 10:28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
Group 1 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
John 10:28-29 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.
1 Corinthians 6:20 For you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
1 Corinthians 3:17 If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.
Psalm 13:2-4 How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in my heart all the day? How long shall my enemy be exalted over me? Consider and answer me, O Lord my God; light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death, lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed over him,” lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken.
Psalm 147:3 He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
Group 2 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
1 John 3:15 Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
Romans 10:13 For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
John 10:28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.
Deuteronomy 30:19 I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live,
John 12:25 Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.
Romans 8:38-39 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
2 Samuel 17:23 When Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled his donkey and went off home to his own city. He set his house in order and hanged himself, and he died and was buried in the tomb of his father.
Group 3 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Romans 5:2-8 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. …
Isaiah 41:10 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Mark 16:16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
Revelation 9:6 And in those days people will seek death and will not find it. They will long to die, but death will flee from them.
Group 4 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.
Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;
Jeremiah 20:14-18 Cursed be the day on which I was born! The day when my mother bore me, let it not be blessed! Cursed be the man who brought the news to my father, “A son is born to you,” making him very glad. Let that man be like the cities that the Lord overthrew without pity; let him hear a cry in the morning and an alarm at noon, because he did not kill me in the womb; so my mother would have been my grave, and her womb forever great. Why did I come out from the womb to see toil and sorrow, and spend my days in shame?
Group 5 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Psalm 118:17 I shall not die, but I shall live, and recount the deeds of the Lord.
John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Job 7:15-16 So that I would choose strangling and death rather than my bones. I loathe my life; I would not live forever. Leave me alone, for my days are a breath.
1 Kings 16:15-20 In the twenty-seventh year of Asa king of Judah, Zimri reigned seven days in Tirzah. Now the troops were encamped against Gibbethon, which belonged to the Philistines, and the troops who were encamped heard it said, “Zimri has conspired, and he has killed the king.” Therefore all Israel made Omri, the commander of the army, king over Israel that day in the camp. So Omri went up from Gibbethon, and all Israel with him, and they besieged Tirzah. And when Zimri saw that the city was taken, he went into the citadel of the king’s house and burned the king’s house over him with fire and died, because of his sins that he committed, doing evil in the sight of the Lord, walking in the way of Jeroboam, and for his sin which he committed, making Israel to sin. …
Group 6 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Proverbs 11:17 A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.
Matthew 27:3-5 Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, saying, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” They said, “What is that to us? See to it yourself.” And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself.
Job 1:21 And he said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.”
Jonah 4:3 Therefore now, O Lord, please take my life from me, for it is better for me to die than to live.”
1 John 4:4 Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.
Group 7 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Hebrews 9:27 And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment,
John 14:1 “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.
Judges 16:25-30 And when their hearts were merry, they said, “Call Samson, that he may entertain us.” So they called Samson out of the prison, and he entertained them. They made him stand between the pillars. And Samson said to the young man who held him by the hand, “Let me feel the pillars on which the house rests, that I may lean against them.” Now the house was full of men and women. All the lords of the Philistines were there, and on the roof there were about 3,000 men and women, who looked on while Samson entertained. Then Samson called to the Lord and said, “O Lord God, please remember me and please strengthen me only this once, O God, that I may be avenged on the Philistines for my two eyes.” …
Group 8 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Isaiah 40:31 But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Hebrews 13:5-6 Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?”
1 Peter 5:6-7 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.
Judges 9:50-55 Then Abimelech went to Thebez and encamped against Thebez and captured it. But there was a strong tower within the city, and all the men and women and all the leaders of the city fled to it and shut themselves in, and they went up to the roof of the tower. And Abimelech came to the tower and fought against it and drew near to the door of the tower to burn it with fire. And a certain woman threw an upper millstone on Abimelech’s head and crushed his skull. Then he called quickly to the young man his armor-bearer and said to him, “Draw your sword and kill me, lest they say of me, ‘A woman killed him.’” And his young man thrust him through, and he died. …
Group 9 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Ephesians 5:29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church,
Romans 8:1-2 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.
Hebrews 10:35-36 Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.
Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
2 Corinthians 1:10 He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again.
Psalm 23:1-6 A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. …
Group 10 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
1 Kings 19:1-21 Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, “So may the gods do to me and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by this time tomorrow.” Then he was afraid, and he arose and ran for his life and came to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there. But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he asked that he might die, saying, “It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers.” …
1 John 3:15 Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
Revelation 21:4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Romans 8:28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Group 11 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Hebrews 11:1-40 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation. By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he was commended as righteous, God commending him by accepting his gifts. And through his faith, though he died, he still speaks. By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God. …
Job 10:12 You have granted me life and steadfast love, and your care has preserved my spirit.
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
1 Samuel 31:3-5 The battle pressed hard against Saul, and the archers found him, and he was badly wounded by the archers. Then Saul said to his armor-bearer, “Draw your sword, and thrust me through with it, lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and mistreat me.” But his armor-bearer would not, for he feared greatly. Therefore Saul took his own sword and fell upon it. And when his armor-bearer saw that Saul was dead, he also fell upon his sword and died with him.
Group 12 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
John 5:24 Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.
Psalm 30:8-12 To you, O Lord, I cry, and to the Lord I plead for mercy: “What profit is there in my death, if I go down to the pit? Will the dust praise you? Will it tell of your faithfulness? Hear, O Lord, and be merciful to me! O Lord, be my helper!” You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, that my glory may sing your praise and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever!
Philippians 1:6 And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Psalm 42:5 Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation
Job 30:23 For I know that you will bring me to death and to the house appointed for all living.
Deuteronomy 32:39 “‘See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god beside me; I kill and I make alive; I wound and I heal; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand.
Genesis 2:7 Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.
Group 13 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Joshua 2:24 And they said to Joshua, “Truly the Lord has given all the land into our hands. And also, all the inhabitants of the land melt away because of us.”
Colossians 2:13-14 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.
Luke 1:37 For nothing will be impossible with God.”
Colossians 1:1-29 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father. We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, …
Group 14 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Genesis 28:15 Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land. For I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”
Psalm 94:1-23 O Lord, God of vengeance, O God of vengeance, shine forth! Rise up, O judge of the earth; repay to the proud what they deserve! O Lord, how long shall the wicked, how long shall the wicked exult? They pour out their arrogant words; all the evildoers boast. They crush your people, O Lord, and afflict your heritage. …
Exodus 33:14 And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
1 Peter 4:6-5:10 For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does. The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: …
Group 15 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Psalm 138:7-139:24 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand delivers me. The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands. To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. …
Isaiah 55:6-11 “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, …
Group 16 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!
Job 18:4-19:29 You who tear yourself in your anger, shall the earth be forsaken for you, or the rock be removed out of its place? “Indeed, the light of the wicked is put out, and the flame of his fire does not shine. The light is dark in his tent, and his lamp above him is put out. His strong steps are shortened, and his own schemes throw him down. For he is cast into a net by his own feet, and he walks on its mesh. …
Psalm 71:9-20 Do not cast me off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength is spent. For my enemies speak concerning me; those who watch for my life consult together and say, “God has forsaken him; pursue and seize him, for there is none to deliver him.” O God, be not far from me; O my God, make haste to help me! May my accusers be put to shame and consumed; with scorn and disgrace may they be covered who seek my hurt. …
Group 17 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
James 1:2-12 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. …
Proverbs 23:1-35 When you sit down to eat with a ruler, observe carefully what is before you, and put a knife to your throat if you are given to appetite. Do not desire his delicacies, for they are deceptive food. Do not toil to acquire wealth; be discerning enough to desist. When your eyes light on it, it is gone, for suddenly it sprouts wings, flying like an eagle toward heaven. …
Proverbs 8:32-36 “And now, O sons, listen to me: blessed are those who keep my ways. Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it. Blessed is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors. For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord, but he who fails to find me injures himself; all who hate me love death.”
Group 18 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
2 Peter 2:9-12 Then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment, and especially those who indulge in the lust of defiling passion and despise authority. Bold and willful, they do not tremble as they blaspheme the glorious ones, whereas angels, though greater in might and power, do not pronounce a blasphemous judgment against them before the Lord. But these, like irrational animals, creatures of instinct, born to be caught and destroyed, blaspheming about matters of which they are ignorant, will also be destroyed in their destruction,
Psalm 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
Psalm 34:1-35:28 Of David, when he changed his behavior before Abimelech, so that he drove him out, and he went away. I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together! I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed. …
Group 19 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Job 10:1-11:20 “I loathe my life; I will give free utterance to my complaint; I will speak in the bitterness of my soul. I will say to God, Do not condemn me; let me know why you contend against me. Does it seem good to you to oppress, to despise the work of your hands and favor the designs of the wicked? Have you eyes of flesh? Do you see as man sees? Are your days as the days of man, or your years as a man’s years, …
Psalm 34:17-20 When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all. He keeps all his bones; not one of them is broken.
Hebrews 2:1-3:19 Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard, while God also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will. For it was not to angels that God subjected the world to come, of which we are speaking. …
Group 20 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Ephesians 1:4-5 Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will,
Philippians 1:21-27 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, …
Romans 10:3-12:1 For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. For Moses writes about the righteousness that is based on the law, that the person who does the commandments shall live by them. But the righteousness based on faith says, “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’” (that is, to bring Christ down) “or ‘Who will descend into the abyss?’” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). …
Group 21 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Acts 16:20-31 And when they had brought them to the magistrates, they said, “These men are Jews, and they are disturbing our city. They advocate customs that are not lawful for us as Romans to accept or practice.” The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods. And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them safely. Having received this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. …
Isaiah 51:7-52:7 “Listen to me, you who know righteousness, the people in whose heart is my law; fear not the reproach of man, nor be dismayed at their revilings. For the moth will eat them up like a garment, and the worm will eat them like wool, but my righteousness will be forever, and my salvation to all generations.” Awake, awake, put on strength, O arm of the Lord; awake, as in days of old, the generations of long ago. Was it not you who cut Rahab in pieces, who pierced the dragon? Was it not you who dried up the sea, the waters of the great deep, who made the depths of the sea a way for the redeemed to pass over? And the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; …
Group 22 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Isaiah 28:15-22 Because you have said, “We have made a covenant with death, and with Sheol we have an agreement, when the overwhelming whip passes through it will not come to us, for we have made lies our refuge, and in falsehood we have taken shelter”; therefore thus says the Lord God, “Behold, I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation: ‘Whoever believes will not be in haste.’ And I will make justice the line, and righteousness the plumb line; and hail will sweep away the refuge of lies, and waters will overwhelm the shelter.” Then your covenant with death will be annulled, and your agreement with Sheol will not stand; when the overwhelming scourge passes through, you will be beaten down by it. …
Luke 17:33-18:1 Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will keep it. I tell you, in that night there will be two in one bed. One will be taken and the other left. There will be two women grinding together. One will be taken and the other left.” And they said to him, “Where, Lord?” He said to them, “Where the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.” And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.
Group 23 – Why Should I Not Commit Suicide According to the Bible
Proverbs 10:18-11:8 The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever utters slander is a fool. When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver; the heart of the wicked is of little worth. The lips of the righteous feed many, but fools die for lack of sense. The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it. …
Job 28:13-29:2 Man does not know its worth, and it is not found in the land of the living. The deep says, ‘It is not in me,’ and the sea says, ‘It is not with me.’ It cannot be bought for gold, and silver cannot be weighed as its price. It cannot be valued in the gold of Ophir, in precious onyx or sapphire. Gold and glass cannot equal it, nor can it be exchanged for jewels of fine gold. …
Proverbs 1:19-2:22 Such are the ways of everyone who is greedy for unjust gain; it takes away the life of its possessors. Wisdom cries aloud in the street, in the markets she raises her voice; at the head of the noisy streets she cries out; at the entrance of the city gates she speaks: “How long, O simple ones, will you love being simple? How long will scoffers delight in their scoffing and fools hate knowledge? If you turn at my reproof, behold, I will pour out my spirit to you; I will make my words known to you. …
Bestofchristianity.com is a Global Media Ministry. As a Christian Website and Online Evangelical Ministry, Best Of Christianity focuses on the teachings of Jesus Christ, the power of the Holy spirit, and above all the Love of God. It uses the Bible as the foundation to knowing and obeying God. It steps in at the command of Jesus Christ to take the holy gospel to the four corners of the world so that those who believe in him can have eternal life. Under the authority of Jesus Christ, we are Apostolic and Prophetic sons and daughters of God sent out to set the captives free, heal the sick, bring deliverance, give sight to the blind, strengthen the lame to walk and above all lead souls to heaven. It is in the Christian light that we analyze topics like Prosperity, Wealth, Debt free, Credits, Finance, and Money in the Bible.
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