17 Forbidden Behaviors for Christians According to the Bible

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The Bible guides Christians, providing principles and instructions for living a life that aligns with God’s will. Among its teachings are behaviors explicitly forbidden for believers. If followed, these actions can lead to spiritual downfall and separation from God. Here are 17 such behaviors, each backed by biblical references.

Idolatry

Worshipping idols or placing anything above God is a severe transgression in Christianity. Idolatry isn’t solely about bowing down to statues; it also includes giving supreme importance to material possessions, relationships, or personal ambitions over God.

Exodus 20:3-4 warns, “You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything.” Prioritizing God above all else is essential for spiritual integrity. Modern idols can be careers, relationships, or material possessions that precede faith.

Blasphemy

Speaking sacrilegiously about God or sacred things is another grave sin. Blasphemy can manifest through words, actions, or thoughts that show irreverence toward divine presence. Leviticus 24:16 states, “Anyone who blasphemes the name of the LORD is to be put to death.” Even though modern interpretations might not condone such extreme measures, the gravity of this sin remains clear.

Stealing

Taking what doesn’t belong to you undermines trust and community. Stealing goes beyond physical theft and includes deceitful practices like fraud, embezzlement, and even plagiarism. Exodus 20:15 plainly states, “You shall not steal,” referring to honesty as foundational to a just and harmonious society.

Lying

Speaking falsehoods or deceiving others erodes trust and integrity. Lies can range from minor white lies to significant deceptions with far-reaching consequences. Proverbs 12:22 emphasizes, “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” Upholding truthfulness is essential for maintaining healthy, transparent relationships.

Coveting

Desiring others’ possessions or status breeds discontent and jealousy. Coveting can lead to more severe sins like theft, adultery, or even murder. Exodus 20:17 advises, “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house, wife, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.” Cultivating gratitude for what you have can help counteract the urge to covet.

Immorality

Engaging in inappropriate behavior is admonished in the Bible. Immorality includes adultery, fornication, and any activity outside the sanctity of marriage. 1 Corinthians 6:18 instructs, “Flee from immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins through immorality, sins against their own body.”

Drunkenness

Excessive drinking leading to sinful behavior is strongly discouraged. Drunkenness often leads to loss of self-control and can result in actions that one might regret. Ephesians 5:18 cautions, “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” Moderation and mindfulness in consumption are essential for maintaining spiritual and physical well-being.

Murder

Taking another person’s life is condemned unequivocally. The sanctity of life is paramount in Christian teachings, and murder is seen as an affront to God’s creation. Exodus 20:13 firmly declares, “You shall not murder,” emphasizing the importance of preserving life and promoting peace.

Bearing False Witness

Giving false testimony against others can have devastating repercussions. Bearing false witness is not limited to courtrooms; it includes spreading rumors or misinformation that harm others. Exodus 20:16 instructs, “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.” The truth is essential for justice and community harmony.

Gossiping

Speaking negatively about others behind their backs damages reputations and relationships. Gossip often originates from a desire to feel superior or in control. In Proverbs 16:28, “A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.” Staying away from gossip creates a more loving and supportive community.

Envy

Feeling resentful over others’ advantages or achievements leads to bitterness and hatred. Envy can erode one’s peace of mind and prompt harmful actions. James 3:16 observes, “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.”

Disobedience to Parents

Not honoring or respecting one’s parents goes against biblical teachings. Disobedience to parents can manifest in defiance, neglect, or lack of appreciation. Ephesians 6:2 commands, “Honor your father and mother,” this ensures mutual familial respect and harmony.

Judging Others Harshly

Criticizing others without self-reflection is hypocritical and damaging. Harsh judgment is a form of pride or insecurity. Matthew 7:1-2 strongly advises, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” It is good to practice empathy and introspection before passing judgment.

Unforgiveness

Holding grudges and not forgiving others poisons one’s soul. Unforgiveness leads to long-lasting resentment and emotional distress. Matthew 6:14-15 notes, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”.

Pride

Excessive self-admiration and lack of humility are detrimental to spiritual growth. Pride often leads to an inflated sense of self-importance and a diminished regard for others. Proverbs 16:18 cautions, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”

Anger and Wrath

Allowing anger to control your actions can result in harmful behaviors. Anger is a natural emotion, but unchecked anger can lead to destructive outcomes. Ephesians 4:26 advises, “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.”

Greed

An excessive desire for material wealth leads to spiritual impoverishment. Greed often blinds individuals to the needs of others and encourages a relentless pursuit of more. 1 Timothy 6:10 warns, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” To counteract greed, practicing generosity and focusing on non-material aspects of life is good.

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