30+ Important Bible Verses About Wickedness (Explained)

Psalm 10:4

“In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.”

Psalm 10:4 portrays the essence of wickedness as rooted in pride and a rejection of God. The wicked person, consumed by their own self-importance, neglects to seek God and excludes Him from their thoughts and actions. This verse highlights the fundamental nature of wickedness as a departure from God’s presence, leading to self-centeredness and moral corruption. It serves as a reminder of the dangers of pride and the importance of humility in cultivating a righteous life.

Proverbs 6:16-19

“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.”

Proverbs 6:16-19 provides a comprehensive list of behaviors that the Lord hates, illustrating the various manifestations of wickedness. From haughtiness and deceit to violence and discord, these verses depict the depravity of the human heart when it strays from God’s righteous path. Each aspect listed serves as a cautionary tale, warning against the destructive consequences of embracing wickedness in its manifold forms. This passage invites reflection on the nature of sin and its detrimental effects on individuals and communities, urging readers to pursue righteousness and avoid the pitfalls of wickedness.

Isaiah 32:6

“For fools speak folly, their hearts are bent on evil: They practice ungodliness and spread error concerning the Lord; the hungry they leave empty and from the thirsty they withhold water.”

Isaiah 32:6 condemns the actions of the wicked, characterized by folly, evil intent, and a disregard for the needs of others. The wicked, driven by selfish desires and a rejection of God’s ways, engage in ungodly practices and propagate falsehoods about the Lord. Their actions result in deprivation and suffering for the vulnerable, as they selfishly withhold assistance from those in need. This verse serves as a stark reminder of the destructive impact of wickedness on both individuals and society, highlighting the importance of pursuing righteousness and compassion in all aspects of life.

Romans 3:10-12

“As it is written: ‘There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God. All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one.'”

Romans 3:10-12 underscores the universal reality of human wickedness, emphasizing the pervasive nature of sin and moral depravity. This passage quotes from the Old Testament to affirm the fallen state of humanity, highlighting the absence of righteousness, understanding, and genuine seeking after God among individuals. It paints a bleak picture of the human condition, where all have turned away from God and become ensnared in the grip of sin. This verse serves as a sobering reminder of the innate propensity towards wickedness within every human heart, underscoring the universal need for redemption and renewal through the grace of God.

Ephesians 6:12

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Ephesians 6:12 sheds light on the spiritual dimension of wickedness, highlighting the existence of malevolent spiritual forces that perpetrate evil in the world. This verse emphasizes that the ultimate battle against wickedness is not merely physical or human-centered but spiritual in nature. It points to the reality of spiritual warfare and the ongoing struggle against the dark forces aligned against God’s kingdom. By acknowledging the presence of these spiritual adversaries, this passage calls believers to be vigilant and equipped with the spiritual armor described in the preceding verses, standing firm in the face of wickedness and advancing the cause of righteousness through prayer and faith.

1 John 3:15

“Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him.”

1 John 3:15 equates hatred with the act of murder, revealing the deep-seated nature of wickedness in harboring animosity towards others. This verse emphasizes the seriousness of harboring hatred and ill will towards fellow human beings, as it reflects a heart devoid of love and compassion. Such attitudes and actions are antithetical to the life of righteousness and love that characterizes those who abide in Christ. By equating hatred with the ultimate act of murder, this passage underscores the need for believers to cultivate a spirit of love, forgiveness, and reconciliation, rejecting the ways of wickedness and embracing the transformative power of Christ’s love in their lives.

Genesis 6:5

“The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time.”

In Genesis 6:5, the narrative unfolds a sobering picture of pervasive human wickedness, prompting God’s response with the flood. This verse encapsulates a dire state where every thought and inclination of the human heart is immersed in evil. It serves as a historical reminder of the consequences of unchecked wickedness, leading to divine intervention for the sake of restoring righteousness. The verse invites reflection on the enduring struggle against the corruption of human nature and the need for God’s redemptive intervention.

Jeremiah 17:9

“The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?”

Jeremiah 17:9 delves into the core of human nature, portraying the heart as deceitful and incurable. This verse echoes the pervasive theme of the deceitfulness of the human heart, contributing to the manifestation of wickedness. It emphasizes the profound need for divine intervention and transformation, acknowledging the inherent limitations of human understanding and the necessity of relying on God for the healing and purification of the heart.

Micah 2:1

“Woe to those who plan iniquity, to those who plot evil on their beds! At morning’s light, they carry it out because it is in their power to do it.”

Micah 2:1 condemns those who actively scheme and plot evil, portraying a deliberate engagement in wickedness. The verse captures the intentionality behind certain acts of wickedness, emphasizing the moral responsibility of individuals who devise and carry out evil plans. It serves as a cautionary message against the abuse of power and the conscious pursuit of iniquity, urging readers to choose righteousness over the allure of destructive schemes.

Matthew 15:19-20

“For out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what defile a person; but eating with unwashed hands does not defile them.”

In Matthew 15:19-20, Jesus elucidates the origin of wickedness by asserting that it emanates from the heart. This passage provides a comprehensive list of the evil manifestations rooted in the heart, demonstrating the profound connection between internal disposition and external actions. By prioritizing matters of the heart over external rituals, Jesus emphasizes the transformative power needed within individuals to overcome wickedness. This verse prompts self-reflection on the condition of one’s heart and the necessity of a heart aligned with the principles of righteousness.

Acts 8:22

“Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord in the hope that he may forgive you for having such a thought in your heart.”

In Acts 8:22, Peter calls for repentance from wickedness, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and turning away from sinful thoughts and intentions. This verse underscores the accessibility of divine forgiveness through repentance, reinforcing the transformative aspect of turning away from wickedness. It serves as a reminder that, through genuine repentance and prayer, individuals can experience the cleansing and renewal of their hearts, aligning them with God’s redemptive purposes.

2 Peter 2:9

“If this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials and to hold the unrighteous for punishment on the day of judgment.”

In 2 Peter 2:9, the apostle speaks about the ultimate judgment for the unrighteous, reinforcing the biblical principle that wickedness will face divine accountability. This verse provides assurance to the godly, affirming that the Lord is fully aware and capable of delivering the righteous from trials. It serves as a foundational belief in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the justice of God in addressing wickedness and rewarding the righteous, both in the present and on the day of judgment.

Romans 1:29-31

“They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents.”

Romans 1:29-31 provides a comprehensive list of wicked behaviors, illustrating the depth of human depravity apart from God. This passage outlines various manifestations of wickedness, from envy and deceit to disobedience and inventing new ways of doing evil. It serves as a stark reminder of the multifaceted nature of sin and the desperate need for redemption. Paul’s description underscores the urgency of turning to God for transformation, highlighting the destructive consequences of unchecked wickedness.

Ephesians 5:5-6

“For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient.”

In Ephesians 5:5-6, Paul warns against the entanglement of wickedness in the lives of believers. This passage explicitly states that those engaging in immoral and impure practices, including greed, jeopardize their inheritance in the kingdom of Christ. It emphasizes the incompatibility of wicked behavior with the principles of God’s kingdom and urges believers to be vigilant against deception that could lead them astray. The gravity of God’s wrath against disobedience serves as a powerful incentive for believers to pursue righteousness and avoid the pitfalls of wickedness.

2 Timothy 3:1-5

“But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—having a form of godliness but denying its power.”

In 2 Timothy 3:1-5, Paul provides a prophetic insight into the prevalence of wickedness in the last days. This passage delineates a vivid portrait of the moral decay and spiritual degradation that will characterize humanity. The extensive list of vices, from arrogance to treachery, reflects the diverse ways wickedness can manifest. The warning serves as a call to discernment and spiritual vigilance, urging believers to uphold true godliness amidst a world increasingly prone to deny the transformative power of God.

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Revelation 21:8

“But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”

Revelation 21:8 offers a glimpse into the eternal consequences for those entrenched in wickedness. The verse presents a solemn list of individuals who will face judgment, emphasizing the severity of their deeds. The reference to the fiery lake of burning sulfur underscores the gravity of eternal separation from God. This passage serves as a powerful motivator for believers to live in accordance with God’s righteousness, steering clear of the destructive pathways of wickedness that lead to spiritual death.

Galatians 5:19-21

“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

In Galatians 5:19-21, Paul delineates the acts of the flesh, exposing the various facets of wickedness that oppose the kingdom of God. This passage underscores the stark contrast between the works of the flesh and the fruits of the Spirit. The warning against those who persist in such behavior not inheriting the kingdom of God emphasizes the eternal consequences of embracing a lifestyle contrary to God’s righteous standards. It calls believers to a life marked by the transformative power of the Spirit, steering away from the destructive paths of wickedness.

1 Corinthians 5:11

“But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people.”

In 1 Corinthians 5:11, Paul instructs believers to distance themselves from those within the community who persist in wicked behaviors. This verse reinforces the biblical principle of maintaining the purity of the Christian community by avoiding association with individuals engaged in unrepentant wickedness. It serves as a practical guide for believers to uphold the standards of righteousness within the body of Christ, fostering an environment that promotes spiritual growth and accountability while safeguarding against the corrupting influence of persistent wickedness.

Matthew 5:43-45

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”

In Matthew 5:43-45, Jesus challenges conventional wisdom by urging love even towards enemies. This teaching confronts the natural inclination to harbor resentment or hatred, countering the tendencies associated with wickedness. The call to love and pray for enemies highlights the transformative power of Christ’s teachings in overcoming the divisive impulses that often accompany wicked thoughts and actions. It presents a radical vision of righteousness that transcends the boundaries of conventional morality.

Colossians 3:5-6

“Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming.”

Colossians 3:5-6 instructs believers to put to death the sinful elements associated with wickedness. The passage identifies specific behaviors rooted in earthly nature and warns of the impending wrath of God for those who persist in them. This call to eradicate sinful desires emphasizes the transformative aspect of Christian living, urging believers to actively discard behaviors that align with wickedness and instead embrace a life centered on the pursuit of godliness.

Jude 1:4

“For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord.”

Jude 1:4 addresses the infiltration of ungodly individuals who distort the concept of grace to justify immoral behavior. This verse highlights the danger of perverting God’s grace into a license for wickedness, denying the lordship of Jesus Christ. Jude’s warning serves as a reminder to discern the motives of those within the community who may exploit grace for unrighteous ends. It underscores the importance of upholding the true understanding of grace while resisting attempts to manipulate it for self-serving purposes.

1 Thessalonians 5:22

“Reject every kind of evil.”

In 1 Thessalonians 5:22, Paul delivers a concise command to reject every form of evil. This straightforward admonition encapsulates the proactive stance believers should take against wickedness in all its manifestations. The verse serves as a succinct guide for maintaining moral integrity and avoiding the pitfalls of compromise or complacency in the face of evil. It underscores the necessity of discernment and decisive action in upholding righteousness within the lives of believers.

Psalm 37:1-2

“Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass, they will soon wither, like green plants, they will soon die away.”

Psalm 37:1-2 provides a comforting perspective for those tempted to envy the wicked. The verses counsel against fretting over the apparent prosperity of evildoers, assuring that their success is temporary. The imagery of withering grass and fading green plants conveys the transient nature of the wicked’s apparent success. This Psalm encourages believers to maintain trust in God’s justice, recognizing that the ultimate outcome for the wicked is perishable, while the righteous endure in the eternal promises of God.

Proverbs 28:1

“The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.”

Proverbs 28:1 contrasts the demeanor of the wicked and the righteous. The verse paints a vivid picture of the guilty conscience of the wicked, causing them to flee even when no one pursues them. In contrast, the righteous stand bold and fearless, reflecting their commitment to righteousness and truth. This proverb highlights the internal turmoil that often accompanies wickedness and the confident assurance that accompanies a life lived in accordance with God’s principles.

Psalm 94:23

“He will repay them for their sins and destroy them for their wickedness; the Lord our God will destroy them.”

Psalm 94:23 declares the certainty of God’s judgment against the wicked. This verse expresses confidence in the divine retribution for the sins and wickedness perpetrated by those who oppose God’s righteousness. It serves as a reassurance for the righteous, affirming God’s commitment to justice and the eventual accountability of those who persist in wicked behavior.

Proverbs 10:29

“The way of the Lord is a refuge for the blameless, but it is the ruin of those who do evil.”

Proverbs 10:29 draws a sharp contrast between the outcome of the blameless and those who engage in evil. This verse presents the way of the Lord as a refuge for the blameless, offering protection and security. In contrast, it identifies the way of the Lord as a path leading to ruin for those who persist in wickedness. The verse underscores the divergent destinies that await those who choose righteousness and those who embrace a life marked by evil.

James 4:17

“If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.”

James 4:17 provides insight into the nature of sin, emphasizing the responsibility individuals bear in knowing and doing what is good. This verse broadens the perspective on wickedness, extending beyond overtly sinful actions to include the failure to do the good that one is aware of. It highlights the moral accountability individuals have in actively pursuing righteousness and refraining from neglecting the good they are called to do.

Proverbs 24:1-2

“Do not envy the wicked, do not desire their company; for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about making trouble.”

Proverbs 24:1-2 provides a cautionary admonition against envying or associating with the wicked. The verses emphasize the danger of aligning oneself with those who harbor violent intentions and engage in troublemaking. The imagery of plotting violence underscores the destructive nature of wickedness, urging readers to guard their hearts and resist the allure of paths that lead to harm and mischief.

1 Peter 3:10-11

“For, ‘Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech. They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it.'”

In 1 Peter 3:10-11, the apostle Peter echoes the words of Psalm 34, offering practical guidance for those who desire a life marked by goodness and peace. This passage emphasizes the role of speech and conduct in avoiding evil and deceit, directing believers to actively turn away from wickedness and pursue a lifestyle characterized by goodness and the pursuit of peace. It underscores the connection between righteous living and the experience of a fulfilling and purposeful life.

Zechariah 8:17

“Do not plot evil against each other, and do not love to swear falsely. I hate all this,’ declares the Lord.”

Zechariah 8:17 provides a direct admonition against plotting evil and engaging in deceitful practices. The Lord’s declaration reflects a profound aversion to the behaviors associated with wickedness. This verse serves as a reminder of God’s disdain for falsehood and deceit and calls believers to align their lives with principles of honesty, integrity, and genuine concern for others.

Romans 12:21

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

Romans 12:21 presents a powerful exhortation to believers, urging them not to succumb to the influence of evil but, instead, to overcome evil with acts of goodness. This verse encapsulates the transformative power of choosing righteousness over wickedness, emphasizing the potential for believers to impact their surroundings positively through acts of kindness, compassion, and love. It serves as an inspirational call to actively counter the negative forces of wickedness with the transformative force of God’s goodness.

What does The Old Testament say about Wickedness

The Nature of Wickedness in the Old Testament

Throughout the Old Testament, wickedness is depicted as a deliberate departure from God’s moral standards. It encompasses a wide range of sinful behaviors, including idolatry, deceit, violence, oppression of the vulnerable, and disregard for justice and righteousness. Wickedness is often characterized by a rejection of God’s authority and a pursuit of selfish desires, leading to moral decay and societal corruption. The Old Testament narratives vividly portray the destructive consequences of wickedness, both on individuals and nations, as they face divine judgment for their rebellion against God.

Consequences of Wickedness in the Old Testament

The Old Testament emphasizes the inevitable consequences of wickedness, both in the immediate and ultimate sense. Individuals and nations who persist in wicked behavior face divine judgment, often resulting in calamity, exile, and destruction. The narratives of characters such as Pharaoh, Ahab, and Jezebel illustrate the dire outcomes of embracing wickedness, as they experience divine retribution for their defiance of God’s commands. Additionally, the Old Testament prophets repeatedly warn of the consequences of wickedness, urging repentance and a return to God’s ways to avoid impending judgment.

God’s Response to Wickedness in the Old Testament

In the Old Testament, God’s response to wickedness is characterized by both judgment and mercy. While God is portrayed as a just and righteous judge who punishes the wicked, He also extends opportunities for repentance and forgiveness. The narratives of individuals such as Jonah and Nineveh demonstrate God’s willingness to show mercy to those who turn from their wicked ways. However, God’s patience with the wicked is not indefinite, and ultimately, divine judgment is executed on those who persist in rebellion against Him.

The Call to Righteousness Amidst Wickedness in the Old Testament

Despite the prevalence of wickedness depicted in the Old Testament, there is a consistent call to righteousness and faithfulness to God’s commands. The narratives of righteous individuals such as Noah, Abraham, and David serve as examples of those who choose to walk in obedience to God amidst a culture characterized by wickedness. The Old Testament prophets also call the people of Israel to repentance and a return to covenant fidelity, urging them to reject wickedness and embrace righteousness. Ultimately, the Old Testament presents a nuanced portrayal of wickedness, highlighting the tension between human disobedience and God’s desire for His people to walk in righteousness and obedience.

What does The New Testament say about Wickedness