What does the Bible say about bullying?

I. Definition and Nature of Bullying

Bullying is a form of mistreatment that uses dominance, intimidation, and aggression—whether verbal, physical, or psychological. This behavior demeans others’ dignity, often resulting in fear, shame, or isolation. Scripture addresses all manner of oppression and warns against any conduct that devalues or harms another person.

II. Biblical Principles Against Harmful Behavior

Throughout the Bible, believers are urged to cultivate humility, kindness, and respect. In Proverbs 6:16–19, one finds a list of behaviors detested by God, including prideful attitudes and actions that harm others. The text states, “There are six things the LORD hates...a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.” This condemnation underscores that hurtful treatment, akin to bullying, runs contrary to God’s character.

In Ephesians 4:29, Christians are called to use words that “build others up and meet their needs.” Malicious or degrading speech violates this command. Likewise, Colossians 3:12 tells believers to “clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” Such qualities are the opposite of bullying.

III. Scriptural Highlights on Oppression and Injustice

1. Old Testament Insights

- Psalm 72:4 describes a righteous ruler who “defends the afflicted and saves the children of the needy,” reminding us that God’s people are to protect the vulnerable, not oppress them.

- James 2:6 in the New Testament also highlights how dishonoring the poor is sinful, reflecting a consistent biblical theme of safeguarding those easily targeted by mistreatment.

2. New Testament Teaching

- In 1 Peter 3:8–9, the faithful are urged to be “harmonious, sympathetic, loving, compassionate, and humble” and not to “repay evil with evil or insult with insult.” Bullying is a direct violation of these instructions.

- Galatians 5:14 counsels that “the entire law is fulfilled in a single decree: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Love excludes behaviors of coercion or intimidation.

IV. The Heart Behind Bullying

The Bible points to pride and jealousy as root motivations that can lead to cruelty (Proverbs 13:10). Cain’s enmity with Abel (Genesis 4:3–8) exemplifies how jealousy and pride produced violent consequences. Bullying likewise commonly arises from a heart that seeks to assert superiority or control.

V. Consequences of Bullying

1. Spiritual Effects

Bullying sets individuals at odds with God’s command to love. As 1 John 4:8 states, “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” Repeated patterns of bullying reveal a disregard for divine standards of care and respect.

2. Societal Effects

Communities suffer when hostility and intimidation flourish. Scripture repeatedly warns that sin affects entire communities (Joshua 7:1–5; Proverbs 14:34). Bullying can degrade social bonds and create an environment of fear.

VI. Responding to Bullying

1. Gentleness and Self-Control

Matthew 5:44 instructs, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” This directive does not imply submission to harm; rather, it guides the believer to maintain a courageous yet loving stance.

2. Confrontation and Accountability

Believers are also called to confront sin lovingly (Matthew 18:15–17). Addressing bullying directly can protect others from harm and encourage the bully toward repentance.

3. Supporting Victims

Scripture calls for caring for those in distress (James 1:27). When someone falls victim to bullying, the biblical response is to listen, offer refuge, and work toward justice (Isaiah 1:17).

VII. Practical Ways to Prevent or End Bullying

1. Cultivating Empathy

Romans 12:15 says, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” By developing empathy, individuals learn to see bullying through the victim’s perspective, which discourages harmful actions.

2. Establishing Healthy Communication

Colossians 4:6 encourages, “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt.” Adopting respectful conversation decreases the likelihood of intimidation and insults.

3. Creating Supportive Environments

Families, schools, and fellowship groups can model biblical virtues such as love, patience, and service (Galatians 5:22–23). When these traits flourish, bullying finds less fertile ground.

VIII. Restoration for the Bully

Scripture consistently offers redemption. If a person has bullied others, they can repent, seek forgiveness (1 John 1:9), and make amends. Saul of Tarsus, who once persecuted Christians, became the Apostle Paul, a key figure in spreading the gospel (Acts 9). Likewise, bullies can transform by experiencing God’s love and extending that same love to others.

IX. Conclusion

The Bible dwells extensively on themes of love, justice, and respect for all people. Bullying violates God’s command to treat others with dignity and care and stands in opposition to the character of love portrayed in Scripture. Whether standing against bullying or seeking forgiveness for having inflicted harm, the biblical path forward involves compassion, repentance, accountability, and restoration.

In every instance, the scriptural mandate calls individuals to stand firm against any form of cruelty while pursuing peace, unity, and mutual edification. This comprehensive teaching demonstrates that bullying, in all its forms, has no place among those who desire to live according to God’s revealed will.