Calling names can hurt and divide people, but the Bible urges us to speak words that build up. Today, we’ll see how scripture guides us to use our words wisely.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Called By God
What Does The Bible Say About Calling Names
Matthew 5:22
“But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.”
This verse highlights the importance of controlling our tongues and refraining from calling others derogatory names. It warns us of the consequences of anger and using hurtful words that belittle and demean others. Instead, we are called to show love and respect, even in times of disagreement or conflict.
By refraining from calling names and speaking with kindness and compassion, we honor God’s command to love our neighbors as ourselves and create an atmosphere of harmony and understanding.
Ephesians 4:29
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of using our words to edify and encourage others, rather than tearing them down with name-calling or hurtful speech. Our words have the power to either build up or destroy relationships, and we are called to choose uplifting and gracious speech.
By speaking words of kindness, affirmation, and encouragement, we reflect God’s love and bring healing and restoration to those around us.
Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
This verse reminds us that our words have a profound impact on others. Name-calling and hurtful speech only serve to cause pain and division, like a sword piercing through the hearts of those who hear them. However, when we speak wisely and with kindness, our words have the power to bring healing and reconciliation.
We should strive to be wise in our speech, choosing words that promote unity, understanding, and empathy, rather than using language that belittles and wounds others.
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
This verse highlights the importance of responding to others in a gentle and respectful manner, even when faced with hostility or name-calling. Instead of reacting with further anger or hurtful words, responding with gentleness and compassion can diffuse tense situations and promote peace.
By choosing to respond with love rather than perpetuating a cycle of negative speech, we demonstrate Christ-like character and strive to build bridges rather than walls in our relationships.
James 3:9-10
“With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.”
This verse cautions against the inconsistency of using our tongues to both praise God and curse our fellow human beings. As beings created in God’s image, every person deserves respect and dignity.
Therefore, we are called to align our words with our faith, speaking words of love and affirmation rather than engaging in name-calling or hateful speech towards others.
1 Peter 3:10
“For, whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of guarding our speech and refraining from using our words to harm or deceive others. By choosing to speak truth and kindness, we contribute to a positive and joyful atmosphere.
When we resist the temptation to engage in name-calling or deceitful speech, we cultivate relationships built on trust, honor God, and promote a harmonious community.
Proverbs 21:23
“Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.”
This verse emphasizes the significance of exercising self-control over our words. By being mindful of what we say, refraining from name-calling and hurtful speech, we avoid unnecessary conflict and heartache.
Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can strive to tame our tongues and speak words that bring life and peace to those around us.
Colossians 3:8
“But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.”
This verse reminds us to remove any form of harmful speech from our lives, including name-calling. As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect His character in every aspect of our lives, including our words.
By choosing to speak words that honor and uplift, we align ourselves with Christ’s teachings and transform our interactions with others.
Proverbs 26:20
“Without wood, a fire goes out; without a gossip, a conflict dies down.”
This verse draws attention to the destructive power of gossip and idle talk. Name-calling often stems from rumors and negative assumptions about others.
We are encouraged to refrain from participating in gossip and instead seek reconciliation and understanding, extinguishing the flames of conflict.
Luke 6:27-28
“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”
This verse challenges us to respond to name-calling and mistreatment with love and forgiveness. Instead of retaliating with hurtful words, we are called to bless those who curse us and pray for those who mistreat us.
By emulating Christ’s love and forgiveness, we can break the cycle of negativity and extend grace to even those who may call us names.
Proverbs 16:24
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
This verse emphasizes the power of gracious and kind words. Instead of resorting to name-calling, we are encouraged to speak words that bring sweetness, healing, and encouragement to others.
By choosing to uplift and affirm others, we contribute to a positive and loving environment where healing and restoration can take place.
Matthew 12:36-37
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”
This verse serves as a sobering reminder of the weight our words carry. It reminds us of our responsibility to use our words wisely, refraining from any form of name-calling or hurtful speech.
By recognizing the significance of our words and seeking to speak life and truth, we aim to honor God and build up those around us.
Proverbs 18:21
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”
This verse highlights the immense power of our words. Our tongues have the ability to either bring life or cause destruction. When we engage in name-calling, we inflict wounds that can deeply impact the well-being of others.
As believers, we are called to be intentional with our words and speak life, encouragement, and love, reflecting the character of Christ in every aspect of our lives.
Proverbs 15:4
“The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of using our words to soothe and uplift others. Instead of resorting to name-calling or hurtful speech, we are called to speak words that bring life, healing, and encouragement.
When we choose our words carefully and seek to build others up, we contribute to a positive and nurturing environment that bears the fruit of love and unity.
Proverbs 29:20
“Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for them.”
This verse warns against speaking impulsively and without thought. Name-calling often arises from a place of hasty speech, without considering the consequences or impact it may have on others.
By exercising self-control and choosing our words carefully, we demonstrate wisdom and promote understanding and respect among those we interact with.
Ephesians 4:31-32
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger, brawling, and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
This verse encourages us to let go of negative emotions that can lead to name-calling and instead embrace kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. By choosing to extend grace to others, we mirror Christ’s love and forgiveness.
When we let go of bitterness and anger, we create space for healing and reconciliation to take place, fostering healthy relationships and promoting unity within the body of Christ.
Proverbs 10:19
“Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.”
This verse reminds us that talking excessively does not resolve conflicts or justify name-calling. Rather, exercising restraint and self-control in our speech demonstrates wisdom.
By choosing to hold our tongues, we create room for reflection and discernment, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our words and actions.
Matthew 7:12
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”
This verse, often referred to as the Golden Rule, reminds us to treat others with respect, kindness, and empathy. Name-calling goes against this principle, as it disregards the value and dignity of others.
By putting ourselves in the shoes of others and considering how our words may impact them, we can choose words that uplift, encourage, and reflect the love of Christ.
Proverbs 11:9
“With their mouths, the godless destroy their neighbors, but through knowledge, the righteous escape.”
This verse implies that name-calling and hurtful speech often arise from a lack of understanding or ignorance. By seeking knowledge and wisdom, we can avoid falling into the trap of destructive language.
As followers of Christ, we are called to pursue understanding, compassion, and empathy, striving to build others up rather than tearing them down with our words.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
This famous passage on love reminds us of the attributes we should seek to embody in our interactions with others. Name-calling is contrary to love, as it dishonors others and easily leads to anger and resentment.
By practicing patience, kindness, humility, and forgiveness, we reflect the love of Christ and contribute to an environment of harmony and understanding.
Ephesians 5:4
“Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk, or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.”
This verse advises us against engaging in crude or derogatory language, including name-calling. Instead, we are called to use our words to express gratitude and encourage others.
By cultivating a language of thanksgiving and praise, we create an atmosphere that promotes positivity, respect, and honor.
Proverbs 17:28
“Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.”
This verse highlights the wisdom of remaining silent rather than engaging in hurtful speech or name-calling. Sometimes, the best response is no response, especially if our words will only escalate the situation.
By practicing restraint and discernment in our speech, we can navigate conflicts with wisdom and grace, avoiding unnecessary strife and promoting understanding.
James 1:26
“Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.”
This verse underscores the importance of aligning our words with our faith. Engaging in name-calling and hurtful speech contradicts the values of love, compassion, and respect taught by Jesus.
By being mindful of our words and continually seeking the help of the Holy Spirit to guard our tongues, we demonstrate genuine faith and strive to live out our beliefs in every aspect of our lives.
Proverbs 4:24
“Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.”
This verse directs us to be intentional with our speech, guarding against any form of corrupt or perverse talk, including name-calling. Instead, we are called to speak words of truth, grace, and love.
By choosing to refrain from using our tongues to harm or belittle others, we contribute to a culture of respect and honor, where words carry weight and offer life.
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
This verse encourages us to approach every conversation with grace and wisdom. Instead of name-calling or reacting in anger, we are called to respond with words that bring healing, understanding, and reconciliation.
By following the example of Christ, we can navigate challenging conversations and conflicts with humility and love, ultimately pointing others towards the transformative power of the gospel.