The company we keep can greatly influence our lives and choices. The Bible provides guidance on the importance of surrounding ourselves with positive influences and avoiding bad company.
Today, we will explore verses that warn against the dangers of associating with the wrong crowd and offer wisdom on making wise choices in our relationships. Together, let us explore the scriptures that remind us of the impact our companions can have on our journey of faith.
Bible Verses About Bad Company
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with wise and godly people. When we choose to associate with those who possess wisdom and understanding, we benefit from their influence and guidance. On the other hand, keeping company with foolish individuals can lead us astray and cause harm to our spiritual growth and well-being.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'”
This verse serves as a reminder to be cautious about the company we keep. Associating with individuals who engage in sinful behavior can have a negative impact on our moral and spiritual character. We must be discerning and avoid compromising our values and beliefs by surrounding ourselves with those who may influence us towards ungodliness.
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 relationships with individuals who have a quick-temper. When we associate with people who easily lose their temper, we run the risk of adopting their behavior and becoming trapped in a cycle of anger and unnecessary conflict. It is wise to choose companions who exhibit self-control and promote peace and harmony.
2 Corinthians 6:14
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
This verse highlights the importance of being mindful about our connections with unbelievers. As followers of Christ, we are called to righteousness and living in alignment with God’s truth. Forming close partnerships and intimate relationships with those who do not share in our faith can lead to conflicts of values and can hinder our spiritual growth.
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.”
James warns believers about the danger of becoming too closely aligned with worldly values and desires. When we prioritize the friendship of the world over our relationship with God, we betray our commitment to Him. Our loyalty must lie with God, and we should strive to surround ourselves with individuals who share our devotion to Him, rather than being enticed by the world and its sinful ways.
Proverbs 12:26
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of being intentional about the friendships we cultivate. The company we keep can have a significant influence on the direction of our lives. Therefore, it is crucial to choose friends who align with godly principles and values, as they will encourage and support our spiritual growth, rather than leading us astray into sin and unrighteousness.
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.”
Paul’s instructions to the Corinthians urge believers to exercise discernment regarding those within the church community. While we are called to love and show grace, there are limits when it comes to associations with fellow Christians who persist in unrepentant sinful behavior. We are to avoid intimate fellowship with individuals who claim to follow Christ but whose actions contradict their profession, as their influence can negatively impact our own faith and witness.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This verse illustrates the importance of meaningful and edifying relationships in our Christian walk. Just as iron sharpens iron, we are encouraged to seek companions who sharpen and strengthen our faith. By surrounding ourselves with faithful believers, we can engage in inspiring conversations, share wisdom, and spur one another on towards spiritual growth and maturity.
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 psalm highlights the blessings that come from avoiding the influence of ungodly individuals. By delighting in God’s Word and surrounding ourselves with His truth, we create a better environment for our spiritual growth and prosperity. Choosing to distance ourselves from those who promote sin and mock godliness allows us to focus on deepening our relationship with the Lord and aligning our lives with His will.
1 Corinthians 15:33-34
“Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character. Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning; for there are some who are ignorant of God—I say this to your shame.”
Paul emphasizes the impact of bad company on our character and urges believers to come back to their senses and turn away from sinful behavior. The company we keep can shape our values and actions, so it is essential to surround ourselves with individuals who encourage righteousness and hold us accountable. This verse serves as a reminder to stay vigilant and careful about the influences we allow into our lives.
Proverbs 14:7
“Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips.”
This verse cautions against spending time with foolish individuals who lack wisdom and understanding. Fools speak empty words that do not offer true knowledge or guidance. In order to grow in wisdom and discernment, it is wise to avoid the company of those who are characterized by foolishness and instead seek out companions who can provide insight and truth.
Romans 16:17-18
“I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery, they deceive the minds of naive people.”
Paul urges believers to be discerning about those who cause divisions and seek to undermine the teachings of the gospel. It is important to distance ourselves from those who promote heresy and falsehoods, as their words and actions can lead others astray. Our unity should be grounded in the truth of God’s Word, and we must avoid being swayed by smooth talk and flattery that veers us away from the path of righteousness.
Proverbs 17:17
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
This verse highlights the value of true friendship, which is characterized by love, loyalty, and support. A genuine friend remains faithful and stands by our side in all circumstances, including times of difficulty and adversity. It is important to cultivate relationships with individuals who demonstrate a Christ-like love and who can be trusted to offer genuine support and encouragement.
Proverbs 27:6
“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
This verse speaks to the importance of receiving constructive criticism and feedback from friends who have our best interests at heart. Though it may be difficult to hear at times, wounds from a genuine friend can be trusted and lead to personal growth and improvement. Conversely, flattery from an enemy or insincere acquaintance can be deceptive and ultimately harmful to our well-being.
Proverbs 11:14
“For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.”
This verse emphasizes the need for wise counsel and guidance in making decisions. Just as a nation’s success relies on the wisdom and insights of many advisers, we, too, benefit greatly from seeking counsel from godly individuals. Surrounding ourselves with wise mentors and seeking wise counsel from fellow believers can help ensure that we make sound and godly choices in our lives.
Proverbs 18:24
“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
This verse highlights the importance of having trustworthy and reliable friends in our lives. When we surround ourselves with unreliable companions, we open ourselves up to disappointment and instability. However, there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother, referring to the eternal bond we have with Jesus Christ. He is the ultimate friend and companion who will never let us down.
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 passage reminds us that we are called to live differently from the surrounding world. As believers, we have left behind a life of sinful behavior and should no longer participate in the indulgences of the past. However, those who do not understand our transformed lives may ridicule and persecute us. It is crucial to choose our company wisely and surround ourselves with fellow believers who support and encourage our commitment to holy living.
Proverbs 20:19
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.”
This verse cautions against spending time with individuals who engage in gossip and betray confidences. Those who talk excessively often lack discretion and can cause harm to relationships and reputations. We should choose companions who exhibit wisdom and choose their words carefully, avoiding those who engage in destructive speech.
Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”
This verse highlights the destructive impact of gossip on relationships. Gossip breeds conflict, and those who engage in it often damage and strain friendships. To maintain healthy relationships, it is important to avoid individuals who spread rumors and engage in divisive behavior.
1 Corinthians 10:21
“You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot have a part in both the Lord’s table and the table of demons.”
This verse emphasizes the incompatibility of partaking in both the ways of the world and the ways of God. We cannot be fully devoted to Christ while also embracing the sinful practices of the world. Choosing to walk closely with God means we must distance ourselves from those who promote darkness and adhere to the principles of evil.
Proverbs 19:27
“Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.”
In this verse, the importance of listening to godly instruction is emphasized. When we fail to heed wise advice and counsel, we open ourselves up to wandering away from the truths and wisdom of God’s Word. It is essential to surround ourselves with individuals who can provide godly guidance and wisdom to help keep us on the righteous path.
2 Timothy 3:2-5
“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. Have nothing to do with such people.”
Paul describes the characteristics of people in the last days, warning Timothy to steer clear of such individuals. Those who exhibit these traits and attitudes are not aligned with God’s will and can lead us astray. We are called to have no fellowship with those who deny the transformative power of the gospel and who prioritize worldly desires over a genuine love for God.
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.”
King David expresses his refusal to associate with the deceitful, hypocrites, and evildoers. As believers, we are to discern and separate ourselves from those who engage in wickedness and deceit. Our commitment to righteousness should lead us to distance ourselves from those who exhibit a contrary lifestyle, while being mindful of showing them God’s love and truth.
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 relationships with individuals who have a quick temper. When we associate with people who easily lose their temper, we run the risk of adopting their behavior and becoming trapped in a cycle of anger and unnecessary conflict. It is wise to choose companions who exhibit self-control and promote peace and harmony.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with wise and godly people. When we choose to associate with those who possess wisdom and understanding, we benefit from their influence and guidance. On the other hand, keeping company with foolish individuals can lead us astray and cause harm to our spiritual growth and well-being.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'”
This verse serves as a reminder to be cautious about the company we keep. Associating with individuals who engage in sinful behavior can have a negative impact on our moral and spiritual character. We must be discerning and avoid compromising our values and beliefs by surrounding ourselves with those who may influence us towards ungodliness.
Proverbs 20:19
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.”
This verse cautions against spending time with individuals who engage in gossip and betray confidences. Those who talk excessively often lack discretion and can cause harm to relationships and reputations. We should choose companions who exhibit wisdom and choose their words carefully, avoiding those who engage in destructive speech.
2 Corinthians 6:14
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
This verse highlights the importance of being mindful about our connections with unbelievers. As followers of Christ, we are called to righteousness and living in alignment with God’s truth. Forming close partnerships and intimate relationships with those who do not share in our faith can lead to conflicts of values and can hinder our spiritual growth.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This verse illustrates the importance of meaningful and edifying relationships in our Christian walk. Just as iron sharpens iron, we are encouraged to seek companions who sharpen and strengthen our faith. By surrounding ourselves with faithful believers, we can engage in inspiring conversations, share wisdom, and spur one another on towards spiritual growth and maturity.
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.”
James warns believers about the danger of becoming too closely aligned with worldly values and desires. When we prioritize the friendship of the world over our relationship with God, we betray our commitment to Him. Our loyalty must lie with God, and we should strive to surround ourselves with individuals who share our devotion to Him, rather than being enticed by the world and its sinful ways.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Everlasting Life
What Does the Bible Say About Bad Company?
In the Bible, there are several verses that caution us about the company we keep, emphasizing the importance of surrounding ourselves with positive influences. These teachings can be found in both the Old and New Testaments and offer valuable guidance for our lives.
One notable verse from the New Testament, in the book of 1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV), states, “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'” This verse suggests that the people we associate with can have a significant impact on our behavior and moral values. When we spend time with individuals who engage in negative or sinful activities, we are more likely to be influenced by their actions and attitudes, potentially compromising our own integrity.
Another relevant passage is found in the book of Proverbs, specifically Proverbs 13:20 (NIV), which advises, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” This verse encourages us to choose our friends wisely, as our associations can either contribute to our personal growth or lead us down a harmful path.
Additionally, in Psalm 1:1-2 (NIV), it is written, “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 passage underscores the idea that avoiding the company of those who engage in ungodly behavior can lead to blessings and a deeper connection with God.
In summary, the Bible encourages us to be mindful of the company we keep. By surrounding ourselves with positive, godly influences, we are more likely to grow in wisdom and maintain our moral character. Conversely, associating with those who engage in sinful behavior can lead to negative consequences for our own lives. Therefore, it is essential to choose our friends and companions carefully, striving to align ourselves with those who reflect our values and faith.