The Bible doesn’t mention animals walking in circles, but it does speak of animals in the context of God’s creation and their behavior as part of the natural world. While we might not find direct answers, Scripture encourages us to observe creation with wonder and to recognize God’s handiwork in the patterns of life. Let’s explore the Bible’s teachings on animals and nature.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About A Double Minded Man
What Does The Bible Say About Hanging Out With Sinners
Matthew 9:10-13
While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with him and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
This verse highlights Jesus’ willingness to spend time with tax collectors and sinners. It challenges the religious leaders of the time who looked down upon those who were considered sinful. Jesus’ actions display his love and compassion for all people, regardless of their past or present sins.
It reminds us that as Christians, we should not isolate ourselves from those who are seen as sinful or different. Instead, we should follow Jesus’ example and show them love, mercy, and grace, offering them hope and the opportunity for transformation through the power of the gospel.
Mark 2:15-17
While Jesus was having dinner at Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Similar to the previous verse, this passage highlights Jesus’ willingness to associate with tax collectors and sinners. It exposes the hypocrisy of the religious leaders who judged Jesus for dining with those considered morally corrupt.
Jesus reaffirms his purpose to reach out to those who need him the most – the sinners. He reminds us that our mission as believers is to reach the lost, showing them the love and grace of God. It challenges us to break free from religious traditions that isolate us from sinners and encourages us to build relationships with them, allowing the light of Christ to shine through our lives.
Luke 7:34
The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’
This verse echoes the accusations made against Jesus by the religious leaders. It describes Jesus as a friend of tax collectors and sinners, essentially challenging their perception of him.
It serves as a reminder that as followers of Jesus, we should not be swayed by the opinions and judgments of others. Instead, we should strive to emulate Christ in our interactions with sinners, being willing to befriend them and share the hope of the gospel.
Luke 15:1-2
Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”
This verse illustrates the attraction sinners had towards Jesus and their desire to hear his teachings. It contrasts with the disapproval of the Pharisees and teachers of the law, who criticized Jesus’ association with sinners.
It reminds us that we, too, should create an environment where sinners feel welcomed and included. We should prioritize reaching out to them with the message of salvation, just as Jesus did, regardless of the criticism we may face from religious authorities or society.
1 Corinthians 5:9-10
I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people – not at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case, you would have to leave this world.
This verse provides guidance on associating with sinners, specifically addressing the issue of sexual immorality. It clarifies that we should not cut ourselves off from the sinful world completely; otherwise, we would have to separate from everyone.
It emphasizes that while we should not condone or participate in sinful behaviors, we are called to be salt and light in the world, engaging with unbelievers and shining the truth of God’s Word into their lives. We are to bring the transformative power of the gospel to sinners, showing them a better way through Christ.
1 Corinthians 5:11-13
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. What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked person from among you.”
This verse addresses the importance of maintaining moral standards within the Christian community. It instructs believers not to associate or dine with those who claim to be Christians but continue in sinful lifestyles.
However, it also acknowledges that our role as Christians is not to judge those outside of the church. We are to allow God to be the ultimate judge. Instead, we should focus on standing firm in our own faith and living as examples of Christ’s love and righteousness.
Galatians 2:11-13
When Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face because he stood condemned. For before certain men came from James, he used to eat with the Gentiles. But when they arrived, he began to draw back and separate himself from the Gentiles because he was afraid of those who belonged to the circumcision group. The other Jews joined him in his hypocrisy so that by their hypocrisy, even Barnabas was led astray.
This verse recounts an incident where the apostle Peter (Cephas) separated himself from eating with Gentile believers out of fear of the opinions and judgment of the Jewish circumcision group.
It serves as a warning against succumbing to peer pressure and compromising our beliefs for the sake of acceptance or to avoid conflict. We are called to stand firm in our faith, even if it means going against the expectations or traditions of others.
1 Timothy 1:15
Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners – of whom I am the worst.
This verse reflects the Apostle Paul’s humble acknowledgment of his own sinfulness and the purpose of Jesus’ coming into the world – to save sinners.
It reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace, and therefore, we should not consider ourselves better than sinners. Instead, we should approach them with humility, recognizing that we too have been saved by grace, and share with them the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ.
James 4:4
You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
This verse cautions against developing close friendships or alliances with the sinful ways of the world, which are contrary to God’s values and teachings.
It serves as a reminder that while we are called to love sinners and reach out to them with the message of salvation, our loyalty and devotion should always be to God. We should not compromise our faith or partake in sinful activities for the sake of fitting in or gaining acceptance.
1 Peter 4:3-4
For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do – living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you.
This verse reminds us that as Christians, we should no longer participate in the sinful activities that characterized our former lives before accepting Christ.
It acknowledges that our decision to live differently may cause surprise and even ridicule from those who continue in their sinful ways. However, we should remain firm in our commitment to Christ and resist the temptation to conform to the patterns of this world.
1 John 2:15-17
Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world – the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life – comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.
This verse admonishes believers not to be attached to the world and its sinful desires. It warns against being enticed by the temporary pleasures and attractions of this world.
Instead, we are called to prioritize our love for God and align our lives with His will. By resisting the allure of worldly pleasures, we can experience the transformational power of God and enjoy eternal life in His presence.
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.
This verse encourages believers to rid themselves of sinful behaviors and desires associated with their earthly nature. It highlights the seriousness of these actions and the judgment that awaits those who persist in such behaviors.
It serves as a reminder that our association with sinners should not lead us into participating in their sinful acts, but rather to be examples of righteousness and agents of transformation, pointing them towards repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.
Psalm 1:1-2
Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.
This verse emphasizes the importance of not aligning oneself with the wicked, sinners, or mockers. It encourages believers to find their delight and satisfaction in God’s Word and to constantly meditate on His teachings.
While we are called to reach out to sinners, this verse highlights the need to maintain spiritual discernment and avoid becoming influenced or swayed by the ungodly ways of the world. Our priority should always be seeking after God and His truth.
Proverbs 13:20
Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.
This verse advises believers to surround themselves with wise and godly individuals, as their influence can lead to wisdom and righteousness.
While we are called to interact with sinners, it is important to maintain healthy relationships and seek guidance from mature believers. This verse encourages us to carefully discern the company we keep and to ensure that we do not become negatively influenced or harmed by associating with those who persist in sinful ways.
Proverbs 14:7
Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips.
This verse cautions against engaging in close relationships or conversations with foolish individuals, as they lack wisdom and understanding.
While we are called to show love and grace to sinners, there may be instances where it is necessary to distance ourselves from individuals who consistently display foolish and ungodly behavior. By prioritizing wisdom and discernment, we can guard our hearts and maintain a strong walk with Christ.
Proverbs 22:24-25
Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.
This verse advises against forming close friendships or associations with individuals who have a quick temper or are easily angered.
While we should reach out to sinners with love and grace, it is important to exercise discernment to protect ourselves from negative influences. This verse reminds us to be cautious of the company we keep, as their negative qualities have the potential to entrap and negatively impact our own lives.
Proverbs 28:7
A discerning son heeds instruction, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father.
This verse underscores the importance of being receptive to wise instruction and avoiding the company of those who indulge in excessive and sinful behavior.
As believers, we are called to seek wisdom and guidance from godly mentors and teachers. This verse encourages us to align ourselves with those who exhibit self-control and discipline rather than becoming entangled with individuals who persist in gluttonous and unrestrained behavior.
Proverbs 29:3
A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.
This verse contrasts the actions of a man who loves wisdom, bringing joy to his father, with the consequences of associating with prostitutes and squandering wealth.
While we are called to love sinners and share the hope of the gospel, it is vital to exercise discernment and avoid being lured into participating in their sinful activities. By valuing wisdom and righteousness, we honor God and bring joy to our Heavenly Father.
1 Corinthians 15:33
Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”
This verse warns against the detrimental influence of spending time with individuals whose character and actions are contrary to godly values.
While we should engage with sinners to share the light of Christ, we must be mindful of the company we keep. It is essential to surround ourselves with individuals who will support and encourage us in our faith journey rather than being led astray by negative influences.
Psalms 26:4-5
I do not sit with the deceitful, nor do I associate with hypocrites. I abhor the assembly of evildoers and refuse to sit with the wicked.
This verse declares the psalmist’s commitment to avoid the company of deceitful individuals, hypocrites, and evildoers.
While we are called to reach out to sinners with love and grace, this verse reminds us of the importance of maintaining spiritual discernment and integrity. It encourages us to distance ourselves from those who persist in deceit and wickedness, while still being available to share the hope of Christ’s redemption.
Proverbs 1:10
My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them.
This verse serves as a warning against succumbing to the enticement and influence of sinful individuals.
While we are called to love and show grace to sinners, it is crucial to resist the temptation to participate in their sinful activities. This verse reminds us to stand firm in our faith and not compromise our beliefs for the sake of acceptance or fitting in.
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.
This verse warns against desiring the company of the wicked and indulging in envy towards them.
While we should reach out to sinners with the hope of leading them to Christ, it is essential to guard our hearts and minds against yearning for the ways of the wicked. The verse cautions us against envying their sinful lifestyles and encourages us to maintain a focus on righteousness and godliness.