26 Bible Verses About Evil

Evil is a concept that can feel both distant and uncomfortably close, lurking in the shadows of our world and sometimes even within our own hearts. It’s a topic that can stir up fear, confusion, and a whole lot of questions. But here’s the good news: the Bible doesn’t shy away from addressing the reality of evil. Instead, it offers wisdom, guidance, and hope for navigating a world where darkness sometimes seems to have the upper hand.

In the pages of Scripture, we find stories of triumph over evil, promises of protection, and reminders of a greater power that ultimately overcomes. These verses serve as a beacon of light, helping us understand the nature of evil and how we can stand firm against it. So, whether you’re wrestling with personal struggles or trying to make sense of the chaos in the world, these 26 Bible verses about evil are here to offer clarity and comfort. Let’s dive in and discover how we can face the darkness with faith and courage.

26 Bible Verses About Evil

Verses About The Nature of Evil
Verses About The Consequences of Evil
Verses About Resisting Evil
Verses About God’s Triumph Over Evil
Verses About Avoiding Evil

Evil is often depicted as a force that opposes goodness and righteousness. In the Bible, it is sometimes personified in figures like Satan, who tempts and deceives. The nature of evil can be subtle, creeping into thoughts and actions, or it can be overt, manifesting in acts of violence and betrayal. Understanding its nature helps believers recognize its presence and influence in the world around them.

Genesis 6:5: “The LORD saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time.”

Jeremiah 17:9: “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?”

Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

1 John 5:19: “We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.”

Ecclesiastes 9:3: “This is the evil in everything that happens under the sun: The same destiny overtakes all. The hearts of people, moreover, are full of evil and there is madness in their hearts while they live, and afterward they join the dead.”

The consequences of evil are far-reaching and can impact individuals, communities, and entire nations. Stories like that of King Saul show how giving in to jealousy and pride can lead to downfall and destruction. Evil actions often lead to suffering, broken relationships, and a separation from divine guidance. These outcomes serve as warnings and lessons for those who seek to live righteously.

Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Proverbs 11:21: “Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished, but those who are righteous will go free.”

Isaiah 3:11: “Woe to the wicked! Disaster is upon them! They will be paid back for what their hands have done.”

Galatians 6:7–8: “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.”

Psalm 34:21: “Evil will slay the wicked; the foes of the righteous will be condemned.”

Proverbs 10:29: “The way of the LORD is a refuge for the blameless, but it is the ruin of those who do evil.”

Resisting evil requires strength, wisdom, and often, community support. The Bible offers numerous examples of individuals who stood firm against evil temptations, such as Daniel in the lion’s den or Jesus during the wilderness temptations. These stories inspire believers to hold fast to their faith and rely on spiritual resources to overcome challenges.

James 4:7: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

1 Peter 5:8–9: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”

Ephesians 6:11: “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

Romans 12:21: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

Matthew 6:13: “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”

The ultimate message of hope in the Bible is that evil does not have the final say. God’s triumph over evil is a recurring theme, culminating in the victory over sin and death through the resurrection. This assurance provides comfort and encouragement to believers, reminding them that no matter how pervasive evil seems, it is ultimately defeated.

1 John 3:8: “The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work.”

Colossians 2:15: “And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”

Revelation 20:10: “And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever.”

Romans 16:20: “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.”

John 16:33: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Avoiding evil involves making conscious choices to turn away from harmful influences and actions. It can mean setting boundaries, seeking wise counsel, and staying grounded in spiritual practices. The wisdom literature, like Proverbs, offers practical advice on how to steer clear of paths that lead to destruction, emphasizing the importance of discernment and vigilance.

1 Thessalonians 5:22: “Reject every kind of evil.”

Proverbs 4:14–15: “Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evildoers. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way.”

Psalm 34:14: “Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.”

Proverbs 3:7: “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil.”

Romans 12:9: “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.”