Words have power, and as Christians, we are called to speak with love, kindness, and wisdom. The Bible warns against name-calling, slander, and hurtful speech, teaching us to build one another up rather than tear each other down. Below are key Bible verses addressing the dangers of name-calling and the call to godly speech.
Also Read: Bible Verses About God’s Name
The Power of Words
The Bible reminds us that our words have the power to bring life or destruction. Name-calling and insults can wound deeply, but words spoken with love can heal and uplift. As followers of Christ, we are encouraged to use our speech for good, reflecting God’s grace in our interactions.
Proverbs 18:21
“The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.”
James 3:6
“And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness,
corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.”
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.”
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.”
Ephesians 4:29
“Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.”
The Sin of Slander and Gossip
Slander and gossip often come in the form of name-calling, spreading falsehoods, or damaging someone’s reputation. The Bible warns against such behavior, calling us to speak with truth and love rather than malice.
Proverbs 10:18
“Hiding hatred makes you a liar; slandering others makes you a fool.”
Leviticus 19:16
“Do not spread slanderous gossip among your people. Do not stand idly by when your neighbor’s life is threatened. I am the Lord.”
Psalm 101:5
“I will not tolerate people who slander their neighbors. I will not endure conceit and pride.”
Titus 3:2
“They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.”
James 4:11
“Don’t speak evil against each other, dear brothers and sisters. If you criticize and judge each other, then you are criticizing and judging God’s law. But your job is to obey the law, not to judge whether it applies to you.”
Speaking with Love and Kindness
As Christians, we are commanded to love one another and to use our words to encourage and build each other up. Kind words reflect Christ’s love and bring unity among believers.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.”
Colossians 3:8
“But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language.”
Proverbs 16:24
“Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.”
Matthew 12:36
“And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak.”
Ephesians 5:4
“Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God.”
God’s Judgment on Careless Words
God sees and hears every word we speak. The Bible warns that we will be held accountable for our words, urging us to speak with wisdom and righteousness.
Proverbs 21:23
“Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.”
Matthew 12:37
“The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.”
Proverbs 6:16-19
“There are six things the Lord hates—no, seven things he detests: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that kill the innocent, a heart that plots evil, feet that race to do wrong, a false witness who pours out lies, a person who sows discord in a family.”
Ecclesiastes 10:12
“Wise words bring approval, but fools are destroyed by their own words.”
Romans 14:12
“Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God.”
Also Read: Bible Verses About Controlling Your Tongue
Following Christ’s Example
Jesus set the perfect example of how to speak with grace, truth, and wisdom. He never used words to tear others down but instead spoke life, encouragement, and correction with love. As His followers, we are called to imitate His way of speaking.
1 Peter 2:23
“He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly.”
Luke 6:45
“A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart.”
John 8:11
“No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.”
Matthew 5:22
“But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell.”
Colossians 3:12
“Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”
Responding to Name-Calling
The Bible instructs us not to repay evil for evil. When we are insulted or called names, our response should reflect God’s wisdom and patience. Instead of retaliating, we should seek peace, trust in God’s justice, and respond with grace.
Romans 12:17
“Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable.”
Proverbs 26:4
“Don’t answer the foolish arguments of fools, or you will become as foolish as they are.”
1 Peter 3:9
“Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will grant you his blessing.”
Matthew 5:44
“But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!”
Proverbs 15:18
“A hot-tempered person starts fights; a cool-tempered person stops them.”
God’s Promise to the Righteous
For those who follow God’s commands and use their words to honor Him, there is great reward. He promises protection, peace, and ultimate justice. While the world may use words to tear down, God lifts up those who trust in Him.
Psalm 34:13
“Then keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies!”
Isaiah 54:17
“But in that coming day no weapon turned against you will succeed. You will silence every voice raised up to accuse you. These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the Lord; their vindication will come from me. I, the Lord, have spoken!”
Matthew 12:35
“A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart.”
Proverbs 11:9
“With their words, the godless destroy their friends, but knowledge will rescue the righteous.”
James 1:26
“If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless.”