The Bible condemns kidnapping, viewing it as a severe violation of God’s laws. Stories and verses show that taking someone against their will is wrong, underscoring the importance of respecting others’ freedom. Here’s more on this topic.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Stealing From Your Parents
What Does The Bible Say About Kidnapping
Exodus 21:16
“Anyone who kidnaps someone is to be put to death, whether the victim has been sold or is still in the kidnapper’s possession.”
This verse in Exodus condemns the act of kidnapping and emphasizes the severity of the punishment for such a crime. It shows that God values human life and considers the act of forcibly taking someone against their will as a grave offense.
By prescribing the death penalty for kidnappers, God establishes a strong deterrent against this wicked act, protecting the innocent and affirming the sanctity of human life. It is a reminder that God desires justice and the preservation of human rights.
Deuteronomy 24:7
“If someone is caught kidnapping a fellow Israelite and treating or selling them as a slave, the kidnapper must die. You must purge the evil from among you.”
God’s law in Deuteronomy 24 holds the kidnapper accountable for their actions and demands their punishment. It specifically addresses the kidnapping of fellow Israelites and condemns not only the act of abduction but also the subsequent mistreatment or trade of the kidnapped person as a slave.
This verse emphasizes the need to purge evil from society and protect the vulnerable. It underscores the importance of upholding human dignity and treating every individual with respect and fairness.
Proverbs 6:16-19
“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies, and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.”
Even though this verse in Proverbs doesn’t explicitly mention kidnapping, it is a reminder of God’s abhorrence towards those who shed innocent blood and devise wicked schemes. Kidnapping inherently involves shedding innocent blood, as it forcibly takes someone against their will and often leads to harm and suffering.
By including this verse, we understand that kidnapping aligns with the detestable acts that the Lord hates. It serves as a warning against engaging in such evil actions and prompts us to strive for righteousness and justice instead.
1 Timothy 1:10
“for the sexually immoral, for those practicing homosexuality, for slave traders and liars and perjurers—and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine.”
In this passage, Paul addresses the importance of sound doctrine and highlights various behaviors that are contrary to it. Among these behaviors, he mentions “slave traders.” Kidnapping was often associated with the slave trade in biblical times, as individuals were forcibly taken and sold into slavery.
This verse emphasizes the immorality of engaging in the slave trade and implicitly condemns the act of kidnapping. It serves as a reminder that Christians should uphold ethical standards and avoid any actions that go against the teachings of Christ.
Matthew 18:6
“If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.”
While not explicitly mentioning kidnapping, this verse in Matthew carries a powerful message about the importance of caring for and protecting the vulnerable, particularly the little ones who believe in Jesus.
It emphasizes the gravity of causing harm or leading astray those innocent in their faith. By extension, this verse can be understood as a condemnation of any action that inflicts harm upon children, including kidnapping, as it constitutes an affront to their well-being and spiritual growth.
Proverbs 24:11-12
“Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter. If you say, ‘But we knew nothing about this,’ does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay everyone according to what they have done?”
These verses in Proverbs call for the rescue and protection of those being led away to death or destruction. They emphasize the responsibility we have to prevent harm and defend the innocent.
In the context of kidnapping, this passage urges us not to turn a blind eye or remain passive when we witness or become aware of such atrocities. It reminds us that God, who weighs the hearts of individuals, is aware of our actions (or lack thereof) and will hold us accountable for what we have done.
Jeremiah 22:3
“This is what the Lord says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do no wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place.”
In this verse, the Lord calls His people to action, urging them to do what is just and right. He specifically mentions rescuing those who have been robbed from the hand of the oppressor and emphasizes the importance of not shedding innocent blood.
This verse teaches us that kidnapping, as an act of harm and oppression, goes against God’s command to do what is just. It compels us to defend the oppressed, care for the fatherless, the widow, and the foreigner, and stand against any act that seeks to cause harm and suffering.
John 10:10
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.”
This verse in John highlights the stark contrast between the purpose of Jesus and the thief. The thief symbolizes those who engage in harmful acts, seeking to steal, kill, and destroy.
In the context of kidnapping, this verse illustrates the essence of the crime, which involves stealing someone’s freedom, potentially causing harm or even death. In contrast, Jesus represents life, offering abundant life to all who believe in Him. It reminds us that Jesus stands against actions that seek to steal, harm, and destroy, and His mission is to bring healing, restoration, and abundant life.
Psalm 10:17-18
“You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed, so that mere earthly mortals will never again strike terror.”
In these verses from Psalm 10, we find solace in the fact that the Lord listens to the cries of the afflicted and defends the fatherless and oppressed. It demonstrates God’s deep compassion and concern for those who suffer.
When considering kidnapping victims, whether adults or children, they fall under the category of the afflicted and oppressed. This verse reassures us that God is attentive to their cries and actively works to bring justice and deliverance. It inspires us to petition the Lord on behalf of kidnapping victims, knowing that He is a God of compassion and defender of the vulnerable.
Isaiah 61:1
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.”
In this prophetic verse from Isaiah, we encounter the mission of the Messiah, to bring good news, heal the brokenhearted, and proclaim freedom for captives. It highlights God’s desire to set people free from various forms of bondage and oppression.
When considering kidnapping, which leads to captivity and suffering, this verse offers hope. It reminds us that Jesus came to release people from darkness, including those who have been forcibly taken and held against their will. It is a profound declaration of God’s power to bring liberation and restoration to those who have experienced the trauma of kidnapping.
Psalm 82:3-4
“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”
These verses in Psalm urge us to take a stand for the vulnerable, defend the weak, and uplift the cause of the fatherless and oppressed. They call for action and demand that we do not remain indifferent to the suffering of others.
Considering kidnapping victims fall under the category of the weak and oppressed, this passage compels us to advocate for their rescue and fight against the wickedness that holds them captive. It challenges us to actively engage in efforts to deliver the weak and needy from the hands of those who seek to exploit and harm them.
Psalm 94:16
“Who will rise up for me against the wicked? Who will take a stand for me against evildoers?”
In Psalm 94, the psalmist cries out to God, longing for someone to rise up against the wicked and take a stand against evildoers. They express their frustration and desire for justice to prevail.
When considering kidnapping as an act of wickedness, this verse resonates with those who wish to see the victims rescued and the perpetrators held accountable. It reminds us of our responsibility as believers to take a stand against evil, advocate for justice, and support the efforts to put an end to the crime of kidnapping.
Luke 4:18-19
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
In Luke, Jesus quotes this passage from Isaiah, declaring His purpose and mission. He announces His anointing to bring good news to the poor, proclaim freedom for prisoners, restore sight to the blind, and set the oppressed free.
Applying this to the context of kidnapping, Jesus’ mission extends to those who have been forcibly taken and held captive against their will. He proclaims freedom and restoration to those who have been victimized, offering hope and healing in the midst of their suffering. It reminds us of Jesus’ redemptive work and prompts us to follow in His footsteps, advocating for the liberation and restoration of kidnapping victims.
Nahum 2:2
“The Lord will restore the splendor of Jacob like the splendor of Israel, though destroyers have laid them waste and have ruined their vines.”
Although not directly addressing kidnapping, this verse conveys a message of restoration and hope in the midst of destruction. It speaks of God’s ability to restore that which has been ruined and bring back the splendor of His people.
When we think about the devastation caused by kidnapping, this verse serves as a reminder that God can restore the lives of victims, bringing healing and reestablishing their worth and dignity. It encourages us to pray for their restoration and to actively support initiatives that seek to rescue and rehabilitate those who have been affected by this heinous crime.
Psalm 127:3-5
“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court.”
In this psalm, children are portrayed as a precious gift from the Lord. They hold immense value and are compared to arrows in the hands of a warrior, capable of making a significant impact in the world.
Applying this to the context of kidnapping, it highlights the sanctity of children’s lives and emphasizes the responsibility we have to protect and nurture them. It reminds us that children should be treasured and provided with a safe environment to grow and thrive. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of justice for kidnapped children, assuring that they will not be put to shame when their cases are brought before the court.
Isaiah 49:25
“But this is what the Lord says: ‘Yes, captives will be taken from warriors, and plunder retrieved from the fierce; I will contend with those who contend with you, and your children I will save.”
These words from Isaiah offer a word of assurance and promise from the Lord. They remind us that God has the power and authority to deliver captives from their oppressors and retrieve what has been stolen from them.
When considering kidnapping victims, particularly children, this verse instills hope that God will contend with those who have done harm and save the children who have been taken. It serves as a reminder that our trust should not solely be in human efforts but also in the divine intervention of a God who is mighty to save.
Psalm 10:14
“But you, God, see the trouble of the afflicted; you consider their grief and take it in hand. The victims commit themselves to you; you are the helper of the fatherless.”
In this psalm, the psalmist acknowledges that God sees the trouble of the afflicted and is intimately aware of their grief. It affirms God’s compassionate nature and His commitment to help those who have been left fatherless and victimized.
When applied to the context of kidnapping victims, this verse brings comfort, knowing that God is fully aware of their plight and holds their well-being close to His heart. It invites us to commit these victims into God’s hands, trusting in His ability to bring healing, restoration, and assistance in their time of need.
Proverbs 23:10-11
“Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, for their Defender is strong; he will take up their case against you.”
These verses in Proverbs caution against encroaching on the rights and lands of the fatherless. They highlight the importance of protecting the vulnerable and serve as a warning to those who would seek to take advantage of them.
When considering the victims of kidnapping, they are often left without protection and vulnerable to exploitation. This verse assures us that God, their Defender, will take up their case and stand against those who harm them. It reminds us of the need to defend and preserve the rights of the fatherless and not exploit their vulnerability for our own gain.
Jeremiah 31:16-17
“This is what the Lord says: ‘Restrain your voice from weeping and your eyes from tears, for your work will be rewarded,’ declares the Lord. ‘They will return from the land of the enemy. So, there is hope for your descendants,’ declares the Lord. ‘Your children will return to their own land.”
In this passage from Jeremiah, God offers a message of hope to those whose children have been taken, promising that they will return from the land of the enemy and be reunited with their families.
When considering kidnapping victims, particularly children, this verse reassures us that God sees their situation and provides hope for their restoration. It encourages us to hold on to faith and trust in God’s promise of redemption and reunion, believing that He can bring back those who have been forcibly taken away.
Psalm 91:14-15
“Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.”
In these verses from Psalm 91, God assures His people of His rescue, protection, and deliverance. He promises to be with those who love Him and call upon His name, providing comfort and intervention in times of trouble.
When we think about kidnapping victims, particularly those who have a relationship with God, this verse offers reassurance and hope. It reminds us of God’s faithfulness and His commitment to deliver His people from distress. It prompts us to seek His presence and pray for His divine intervention in rescuing and protecting those who have been kidnapped.
Psalm 82:4
“Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”
This verse in Psalm calls for the rescue of the weak and needy from the hand of the wicked. It echoes God’s heart for justice and compassion towards those who are defenseless and in need of deliverance.
In the context of kidnapping, this verse inspires us to take action and work towards the freedom and restoration of those who have been forcibly taken. It encourages us to be instruments of God’s rescue and deliverance, standing against wickedness and advocating for the oppressed.
Psalm 103:6
“The Lord works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed.”
This verse in Psalm serves as a reminder of God’s unwavering commitment to righteousness and justice. It highlights His role as a defender and protector of the oppressed, working on their behalf.
Considering the victims of kidnapping, who undoubtedly fall under the category of the oppressed, this verse instills hope. It assures us that God is actively working to bring righteousness and justice into their situations. It compels us to trust in His sovereignty and join Him in His mission to advocate for the well-being and liberation of all who have been oppressed.
Jeremiah 22:3-4
“This is what the Lord says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do no wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place. For if you are careful to carry out these commands, then kings who sit on David’s throne will come through the gates of this palace.”
In this passage from Jeremiah, the Lord instructs His people to act justly and righteously, specifically emphasizing the rescue of the oppressed. He demands fair treatment of foreigners, the fatherless, and widows while condemning the shedding of innocent blood.
When applied to the context of kidnapping, this verse compels us to address the injustice inflicted upon those who have been robbed of their freedom. It calls us to advocate for their rescue and rehabilitation, ensuring they are treated with dignity and compassion. Furthermore, it promises blessings, symbolized by the coming of righteous kings, when these commands are faithfully carried out.
Psalm 7:10
“My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart.”
In this psalm, the psalmist proclaims God as their shield and protector, recognizing His role in delivering the upright in heart.
When considering the victims of kidnapping, this verse offers comfort and assurance that God serves as their shield, providing protection and deliverance. It communicates that God is aware of their pain and suffering, and He is actively working on their behalf. It encourages us to trust in God’s protective power and seek His intervention in the lives of those who have been kidnapped.