What does the Bible say about bullying?

Definition of Bullying

Bullying generally refers to any behavior—verbal, physical, or emotional—that inflicts hurt or intimidation on another individual. Although the term “bullying” is modern, the underlying attitudes and actions appear throughout Scripture under various descriptions such as oppression, abuse, mocking, and unjust treatment. The Bible speaks repeatedly about God’s concern for justice, kindness, and mercy, virtues that stand in direct opposition to any form of harm, belittling, or exploitation of others.

Biblical Principles That Address Bullying

Scripture consistently condemns harmful actions toward others, emphasizing the responsibility to show compassion and justice instead. Multiple passages stress God’s desire for us to protect the vulnerable and refrain from actions that generate fear or distress.

1. Oppression Is Condemned:

“He who oppresses the poor taunts their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors Him.” (Proverbs 14:31)

In this proverb, to “oppress” includes any wrongful treatment or harassment of those who are weaker. This warning indicates God’s displeasure with those who misuse power or social advantage to harm others.

2. Call for Justice and Protection:

“Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; uphold the rights of the afflicted and oppressed.” (Psalm 82:3)

Here, the psalmist notes that the people of God are to stand up for those threatened by injustice and mistreatment. Bullying of any kind opposes this mandate.

3. The Heart Posture of Love:

“In everything, then, do to others as you would have them do to you.” (Matthew 7:12)

Known as the Golden Rule, this teaching of Jesus forms a foundation against bullying by forbidding any action we would not wish upon ourselves.

Examples of Bullying in Scripture

Although “bullying” is not the exact term used in biblical passages, the behaviors are present:

1. Joseph’s Brothers (Genesis 37):

They ridiculed Joseph’s dreams, plotted against him, and sold him into slavery. This betrayal illustrates the relational rejection and physical harm at the root of bullying.

2. David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17):

Goliath was not merely an enemy soldier but also verbally mocked and intimidated Israel, exhibiting threatening behavior reminiscent of modern bullying. David’s reliance on God’s power over human intimidation shows God’s readiness to stand with the oppressed.

3. Treatment of Jesus by the Authorities (Mark 14–15):

Mark’s Gospel recounts mocking, false accusations, and physical abuse directed at Jesus. He was spit upon, struck, and humiliated before His crucifixion. His response—offering forgiveness—demonstrates how one might reject revenge and entrust justice to God.

Root Causes of Bullying

From a biblical viewpoint, bullying arises from pride, anger, fear, and lack of empathy. The Bible repeatedly addresses these heart issues:

1. Pride and Arrogance:

“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (1 Peter 5:5)

Bullying often stems from an inflated sense of self and a diminished regard for others.

2. Anger and Resentment:

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice.” (Ephesians 4:31)

Individuals who struggle with unresolved anger or harbor resentment can lash out through hurtful behavior.

3. Lack of Love for Others:

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.” (1 Corinthians 13:4)

A failure to see fellow humans as image-bearers of God leads to mistreatment.

Biblical Guidance for Those Who Experience Bullying

God does not endorse passivity in the face of wrongdoing, but He does invite believers to respond in a way that reflects trust in His justice and goodness:

1. Seek God’s Presence and Assurance:

“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)

Individuals who suffer at the hands of bullies can find comfort in drawing near to God, whose compassion provides solace in times of distress.

2. Avoid Vengeance:

“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody.” (Romans 12:17)

Scripture calls for relying on God to handle ultimate justice instead of resorting to retaliation.

3. Seek Wise Counsel and Support:

In many instances, speaking with mentors, friends, or church leaders can help. Shared burdens invite help from the body of believers: “Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (cf. Galatians 6:2)

4. Establish Boundaries and Speak Truth:

The Bible teaches that addressing sin openly is necessary for correction and restoration (Matthew 18:15-17). When appropriate, confronting harmful behavior with wisdom and honesty can be a step toward resolution.

Biblical Guidance for Those Who Bully

Scripture also speaks directly to those who cause harm:

1. Call to Repentance:

“Produce fruit, then, in keeping with repentance.” (Matthew 3:8)

Those who have engaged in bullying are summoned to acknowledge the wrong done, forsake those actions, and pursue restoration with those they have harmed.

2. Embrace Humility and Remorse:

“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.” (James 4:10)

Recognizing the gravity of hurtful words and actions unlocks the path to genuine change.

3. Pursue Reconciliation:

True repentance involves seeking the offended person’s forgiveness and making efforts to restore any damage caused. This process reflects the overarching theme of reconciliation evident throughout Scripture (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).

Role of the Church Community

Within a body of believers, unity and edification are prioritized, making bullying behavior wholly incompatible:

1. Leaders’ Responsibility to Protect:

Church elders and leaders, tasked to shepherd the flock (1 Peter 5:2-3), should ensure a safe environment where every member is valued.

2. Fostering a Culture of Kindness and Bearing One Another’s Burdens:

Encouraging fellow believers, supporting them through trials, and standing alongside the oppressed forms part of Christ’s formative teaching on love (John 13:34-35).

3. A Witness to the World:

The way believers treat one another should display God’s love and power, standing in contrast to bullying attitudes often seen in society at large.

Practical Steps and Encouragement

Several steps, rooted in Scripture and observed in healthy Christian communities, can help prevent and address bullying:

1. Teach and Model Respect Early:

Families, churches, and communities that consistently teach love, respect, and empathy for others help raise compassionate, considerate individuals.

2. Establish Accountable Relationships:

Having trusted friends, mentors, or leaders fosters an atmosphere where harmful behavior is quickly identified and addressed.

3. Prayer and Support:

Intercessory prayer and supportive relationships encourage those who suffer bullying, reminding them of their value and worth before God (Matthew 10:31).

4. Encourage Spiritual Growth:

As people grow closer to their Creator through prayer, Scripture, and fellowship, hearts transform and harmful behaviors wane—from both bullies and the bullied.

Final Reflections

From the earliest biblical accounts to the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles, Scripture opposes any form of malicious treatment. Bullying is at odds with the love and kindness central to God’s command that we treat others as we would want to be treated (Matthew 7:12).

For those who have experienced bullying, Scripture offers hope, restoration, and the presence of a caring God. For those who have inflicted harm, Scripture graciously extends the call to repent, seek forgiveness, and walk in newness of life. Ultimately, in an environment grounded in the Word of God, bullying can be confronted, relationships can be healed, and communities can be strengthened through genuine love rooted in divine truth.