Influence is a powerful thing, and the Bible encourages believers to be positive examples for others. Scripture calls us to live in a way that honors God and inspires others to follow Him. Let’s explore how the Bible guides us on influencing others for good.
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What Does The Bible Say About Influencing Others
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
This verse reminds us that as followers of Christ, we have the power to influence others through our actions and behavior. By living a life that reflects God’s love and goodness, we can inspire others to turn to Him and bring glory to His name.
Proverbs 11:30
“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who is wise saves lives.”
Our righteous actions have the potential to impact people’s lives in a positive way. By walking in wisdom and righteousness, we can bear fruit that brings life and saves others from the perils of sin and destruction.
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.”
Jesus’ command to go and make disciples highlights the importance of actively influencing others. We are called to share the Gospel, baptize new believers, and teach them to follow Christ’s teachings. Through this, we have the opportunity to guide others into a relationship with God and impact their lives for eternity.
1 Timothy 4:12
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
Regardless of age, we can be powerful influencers for Christ. This verse encourages young believers to live in a way that challenges stereotypes and displays qualities that are worthy of emulation. By being a positive role model, we can inspire others to follow Christ wholeheartedly.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
When we allow the Holy Spirit to work in us, the fruit of God’s Spirit becomes evident in our lives. These qualities can have a profound impact on others, drawing them closer to Christ. By exhibiting love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, we can influence others in a positive and transformative way.
Titus 2:7-8
“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.”
Our conduct and character should align with the teachings of Christ. By leading through good example and demonstrating integrity and sincerity in our words and actions, we can silence critics and influence even those who oppose us to reconsider their negative opinions.
1 Corinthians 9:22
“To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.”
Paul’s approach to influencing others was to meet people where they were and adapt to their needs. By empathizing with others and showing genuine care and understanding, we can build bridges of trust and ultimately lead them closer to salvation in Christ.
Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
Our words have the power to either edify or tear down. By consciously choosing to speak words of encouragement, wisdom, and truth, we can positively impact the lives of those around us, helping them grow and flourish.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
Through companionship and fellowship, we can sharpen and positively influence one another. By surrounding ourselves with fellow believers who are committed to growing in their faith, we can inspire and challenge each other to live more Christ-centered lives.
Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”
By sharing and imparting the message of Christ to one another, we create an environment where spiritual growth and transformation can flourish. Through teaching, advising, and expressing gratitude, we can influence and encourage each other in our walk with God.
Philippians 2:3-4
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
Our influence on others should be marked by humility and selflessness. By genuinely caring for the needs and interests of others, we can demonstrate Christ’s love and inspire them to do the same, fostering a community of mutual support and encouragement.
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
By being transparent and vulnerable with one another, we create an atmosphere of authenticity and trust. Through confessing our sins, praying for one another, and witnessing the power of God’s healing in our lives, we can influence others to seek forgiveness, restoration, and a deeper relationship with God.
1 Peter 3:15
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”
Our faith should be evident in our lives, prompting others to inquire about the hope we possess. By being ready to share our testimony and articulate the reasons behind our faith, we can influence others with gentleness and respect, opening doors for deeper conversations and potentially leading them to salvation.
2 Corinthians 3:2-3
“You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.”
Our lives are like living testimonies, reflecting the transformative power of Christ within us. By allowing God’s Spirit to write His love, grace, and truth on the tablets of our hearts, we become living letters that are read and observed by everyone around us, influencing them to seek a relationship with the living God.
Proverbs 12:26
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.”
The people we surround ourselves with can greatly influence our lives. By intentionally choosing friendships and relationships rooted in righteousness and godly values, we can positively impact and be influenced by those who walk in the truth.
2 Timothy 2:2
“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”
As believers, we are called to pass on the teachings and truths we have received from those who have gone before us. By investing in faithful and trustworthy individuals who can continue the cycle of discipleship, we play a crucial role in shaping future generations.
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.”
Through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, we are empowered to be witnesses for Christ. This verse reminds us that our influence is not limited to our immediate surroundings but extends to the ends of the earth. By sharing the Gospel and making Christ known, we can impact lives around the world.
Matthew 9:37-38
“Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
Jesus emphasizes the need for workers to bring in the harvest of souls. We can influence others by actively participating in the work of the Kingdom, praying for God to raise up more laborers and being willing to answer our own call to serve and share the love of Christ.
1 Thessalonians 1:5
“Because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake.”
Our influence on others is not limited to words alone. By allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us and living out the Gospel in our daily lives, we demonstrate the transformative power and truth of God’s Word, impacting others through our actions and genuine love.
Romans 10:14-15
“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!””
Sharing the message of salvation is crucial for influencing others. This passage reminds us of the importance of preaching the Good News and proclaiming Christ to those who have not yet heard. By being willing vessels, we have the opportunity to lead others to faith in Jesus Christ and bring them into His kingdom.
1 Peter 2:12
“Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.”
Our actions have the potential to impact unbelievers and draw them closer to God. By living lives characterized by righteousness and goodness, even in the face of false accusations, we can create curiosity, intrigue, and ultimately bring glory to God as He works in and through us.
Galatians 6:9
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Consistency in doing good and influencing others requires perseverance. This verse encourages us to remain steadfast, reminding us that our efforts will not be in vain. When we continue to sow seeds of love, kindness, and truth, we can trust that God will bring about a harvest of transformation in due time.
2 Corinthians 2:15
“For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.”
As we align our lives with Christ and allow His fragrance to permeate through us, we become a pleasing aroma to both believers and unbelievers. Our lives become a testament to His grace and love, influencing others by drawing them closer to the source of eternal life.
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Our transformation and nonconformity to the ways of the world set us apart and enable us to influence others for Christ. By renewing our minds and aligning ourselves with God’s will, we become instruments of change and ambassadors of His Kingdom, effecting positive change in the lives of those around us.
John 13:34-35
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
The love we show to one another as believers has a profound impact on the world. When we strive to love others with the same selfless love that Christ has demonstrated towards us, we bear witness to His transformative power and attract others to join His discipleship.
Matthew 10:32-33
“Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven.”
Our confession of faith in Christ has eternal implications. By boldly and unashamedly acknowledging Him before others, we have the opportunity to influence their lives for good. Conversely, if we deny Christ, we forfeit the privilege of being acknowledged by Him before the Father. Our faith and our words hold great power in shaping the hearts and eternal destinies of those we encounter.
In conclusion, as Christians, our influence on others is crucial in leading them closer to God and guiding them in their faith journey. Through our words, actions, and example, we have the power to impact lives, inspire change, and ultimately bring glory to God. May we strive to live lives that align with God’s Word, allowing His Spirit to work through us, and actively seeking opportunities to influence others for His Kingdom.