Top Bible Verses About Evil Doers (This is really good!)

The Word of God has lots to say in Bible verses about evil doers.  Church teachings are typically focused on the listener who desires to follow Christ. However, understanding how to discern and evaluate evil in others is a very important part of knowing what is “evil” according to the Bible. As a therapist and coach, much time is spent dismantling destructive patterns of relating within families. Additionally, much time is spent healing from the evil that is impacting lives.

Think about how the enemy opposes God, His people and His plans. If the enemy can destroy our identity in Christ and heap on shame, we are far less effective for the kingdom of God. In many cases, when we are consistenly experiencing abuse from “evil doers”- all we can do is survive, nevermind thrive or have life abundantly. As we go through Bible verses about evil doers, know that God has put this information in the Bible for a purpose. We are called to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Let’s see if we can identify evil and see how God’s Word would instruct us to deal with evil.

What is evil or wickedness?

As I did a word study on both words: evil and wicked, I found that the words were used interchangebly. Let’s take a closer look at the similarities and the differences. Let’s start with the word “evil” (Hebrew: ra, Greek: ponēros), which is catoegorized as moral evil or natural evil (think natural disasters or disease). A closer look at the original Hebrew, “ra” shows that “evil” causes pain or misery. This makes sense…whether moral or natural evil, pain is definitely part of the experience when touched by evil. Since we are focusing on “evil doers”, we are going to unpack moral evil. Evil in the Bible refers to anything that is morally wrong, harmful or corrupt. It describes both a state of being (inward corruption) and evil deeds that are contrary to God’s nature and will. 

Wicked (Hebrew: rasha, Greek: asebēs), on the other hand, seemed to refer to people who live directly in continuous opposition to God, His nature and will. In other words, a state of rebellion or deep moral failure. The word evil seemed to be used in the same way when it has progressed. In summary, evil points to both actions and persons. Whereas, wicked points more often to people.

This is where I usually hear many Christians say “we are all evil”. My answer is, yes and no. Yes, we are all sinners in need of a Savior (Jesus) and yes all sin is evil because it is an act of disobedience against God. However, God looks at our heart. Someone who is falling under the description of evil or wicked does not have a heart for the Lord. The following definition did a great job of pointing to the heart…

“It is not their sins per se that characterize evil people, rather it is the subtlety and persistence and consistency of their sins. This is because the central defect of the evil is not the sin but the refusal to acknowledge it.” -Dr. M. Scott Peck

Let’s shift gears to Satan since he is personified as evil and the Bible talks about “sons of disobedience” being under his rule.

Names of Satan

Biblical descriptions of Satan and the names that reveal his character and intentions are good information for believers. His names give us much information about evil since he is personified as evil itself in the Bible. Names such as “Lucifer,” “Satan,” “Devil,” “Tempter,” “Accuser,” and “Prince of This World” each highlight distinct traits. For example, “Lucifer” reflects his prideful fall from heaven, while “Satan,” meaning “adversary,” underscores his opposition to God and His people. “Devil” emphasizes his role as a slanderer and accuser, seeking to harm through falsehoods, while “Tempter” refers to his malicious attempts to lead others into sin. 

​Check out this article on temptation.

The term “Accuser” points to his continual efforts to condemn believers, though Christ’s sacrifice wipes out his accusations. Lastly, as the “Prince of This World,” Satan’s influence over unbelievers and his attempts to lead Christians astray are acknowledged, though his reign is temporary and already defeated through Jesus’ victory on the cross.  Believers need to recognize these traits to avoid unnecessary pain in relationships and to resist Satan’s schemes by standing firm in faith and the authority of Christ.

Satan is Known for Deception 

Another important piece of identifying information about Satan is his deception. Satan’s power relies heavily on deception, as he seeks to maintain control over both unbelievers and believers. He is described as the “father of lies,” masking his true evil nature by pretending to be light and goodness. From the Garden of Eden to today, deception is central to sin, as seen in the serpent’s lies to Eve and Satan’s ongoing efforts to mislead humanity. He disguises his intentions, making evil appear desirable or harmless, while leading people away from truth and righteousness. It is additionally important to notice confusion. Deception leads to confusion and chaos, making it easier for evil to advance.

Check out these consequences of deception and confusion.

More information on how the enemy uses deception here.

Satan Seeks to Destroy

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” -John 10:10

Notice the contrast here in John 10:10- Satan desires to steal, kill and destroy. Whereas, Jesus comes to give life and have it abundantly. This is why it’s important to discern evil. Evil isn’t just out there in the world. It exists in homes, families, churches and other places that should be safe, but those are the very places Satan wants to come in and cause pain and destruction. When we walk around denying that homes, families and churches have evil in their midst, we will be powerless to protect what needs to be protected.

Too often, we are so focused on being “peacekeepers”, “loving people” and “overlooking a multitude of sin”. Those are GOOD things, the Bible teaches those vital concepts for healthy relationships. However, it can easily be applied to the wrong relationships. The result is destruction through the enemy advancing his agenda to destroy. Let’s move onto how the enemy uses evil through people…

Sons of Disobedience

The term “sons of disobedience” (or “children of disobedience” in some translations) appears in the New Testament, in the writings of Paul. It describes individuals who reject God’s will and live in rebellion against Him, often aligning with sinful or worldly behaviors. Paul points out that all of us once fell under the influence of the enemy before we came to Christ. This means there are people in the world that are under the influence of the enemy. 

In Ephesians 5:5-7, Paul describes those who are living in a pattern of sin. Once in Christ, He transforms us day by day. It doesn’t mean we don’t fall short- it’s the pattern we need to be mindful of in ourselves, but also in others. Notice how Paul says, “Don’t be partakers with them”.  Listen to this warning. There is a separation here that keeps children of God safe. Jesus clearly states that we will know people by their fruit- a pattern of outward actions (Matthew 7:16-20). 

Scriptures About Sons of Disobedience

Ephesians 2:1-2 – And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience.

Ephesians 5:5-7 – For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them.

Colossians 3:5-6 – Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these the wrath of God is coming on the sons of disobedience.

In summary, there are people in this world (and they exist in churches, homes, marriages) who are instruments in the enemy’s hands. They are under his influence and their choices to persist in destructive patters wreak havoc in relationships. It is vital that believers identify these people in their lives to avoid unnecessary pain and destruction. 

Evil Doers Will Progress on a Path of Depravity

The first chapter in Romans shows a progression of persisting in rebellion to God and His will. Below is the end of the chapter, but I recommend reading through the chapter in it’s entirety to gain a better picture. Paul is talking about anyone who continuously chooses to rebel against God. God eventually gives them over to the desires of their heart and it is a path of destruction. These people must be on our radar- once given over to a “debased mind” (morally corrupt v28), evil will only grow. We cannot know when that happens, only God knows, but awareness of this reality is good information. Especially as we discern when to get out of someone’s way.

And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done. They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless. Though they know God’s righteous decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them. Romans 1:28-32

Bible Verses About Evil Doers {Patterns of Behavior}

• Proverbs 6:16-19 – “There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.”

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• Psalm 36:1-4 – “Transgression speaks to the wicked deep in his heart; there is no fear of God before his eyes. For he flatters himself in his own eyes that his iniquity cannot be found out and hated. The words of his mouth are trouble and deceit; he has ceased to act wisely and do good. He plots trouble while on his bed; he sets himself in a way that is not good; he does not reject evil.”

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• Isaiah 59:7-8 – “Their feet run to evil, and they are swift to shed innocent blood; their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; desolation and destruction are in their highways. The way of peace they do not know, and there is no justice in their paths; they have made their roads crooked; no one who treads on them knows peace.”

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• Proverbs 4:16 – “For they cannot sleep unless they have done wrong; they are robbed of sleep unless they have made someone stumble.”

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• Micah 2:1 – “Woe to those who devise wickedness and work evil on their beds! When the morning dawns, they perform it, because it is in the power of their hand.”

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• Romans 1:29-31 – “They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless.”

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• Matthew 7:15-16 – “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?”

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• Proverbs 10:23 – “Doing wrong is like a joke to a fool, but wisdom is pleasure to a man of understanding.”

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• Psalm 10:3-4 – “For the wicked boasts of the desires of his soul, and the one greedy for gain curses and renounces the Lord. In the pride of his face the wicked does not seek him; all his thoughts are, ‘There is no God.'”

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• 2 Timothy 3:2-4 – “For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.”

• James 3:16 – “For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.”

Bible Verses About Evil Doers and God’s Justice

• Psalm 37:9 – “For the evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land.”

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• Proverbs 11:21 – “Be assured, an evil person will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will be delivered.”

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• Isaiah 13:11 – “I will punish the world for its evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; I will put an end to the pomp of the arrogant and lay low the pompous pride of the ruthless.”

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• Nahum 1:3 – “The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, and the Lord will by no means clear the guilty. His way is in whirlwind and storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.”

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• Romans 12:19 – “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.'”

List of Evil Behaviors (not an exhaustive list)

Since we continue to discuss evil or wicked behavior, I thought it might be helpful to highlight a list of evil things from one of the passages above. This is just one passage of Scipture! Therefore, this is not an exhaustive list of behaviors to watch out for. I would also add, since it’s not listed in 2 Timothy, deception is the hallmark attribute of the enemy. Evil always has deception woven in somewhere. I would love to hear what you would add (with Bible verses) in the comments section. 

2 Timothy 3:1-5 – But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.

2 Timothy 3:1-5 – But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be…

lovers of self

lovers of money

proud

arrogant  (Arrogant is used to describe someone who has an exaggerated sense of their own importance, abilities, or worth. An arrogant person often believes they are superior to others, exhibits a lack of humility, and tends to be dismissive or condescending towards people they perceive as less important or capable.)

abusive  (Abusive describes behavior that is harmful, cruel, or violent, especially when it involves mistreatment of others. This behavior can be physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, or psychological, and it often involves a misuse of power, control, or trust.)

disobedient to their parents

ungrateful

unholy

heartless  (Heartless describes a person who lacks compassion, empathy, or consideration for the feelings and needs of others. A heartless person is perceived as being cruel, unkind, or indifferent to the suffering or well-being of others.)

unappeasable (Unappeasable describes someone that cannot be satisfied, calmed, or pacified, no matter what actions are taken. An unappeasable person has desires or demands that are impossible to fulfill or placate.)

slanderous  (Slanderous describes statements or remarks that are false, malicious, and intended to damage someone’s reputation. Slanderous comments are typically spoken and can involve spreading lies, rumors, or defamatory statements about a person.)

without self-control

brutal (Brutal is used to describe someone that is extremely harsh, cruel, or violent. It often implies a lack of mercy or compassion, and can refer to actions, events, or conditions that are aggressively forceful and cause significant pain, suffering, or damage.)

not loving good

treacherous  (Treacherous describes someone that is dangerously unstable, unreliable, or deceitful.)

reckless

swollen with conceit

lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God

having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. (Evil wants to look good, not be good. An appearance of godliness is used to create a false sense of trust.)

Avoid such people. (READ THAT AGAIN! EMPHASIS MINE.)

For more on these evil acts check out, “What does the Bible say about narcissism?”

But isn’t this judging others?

There are a couple ways “judgment” is used in the bible. Christians tend to lump all judging into sin, however that is not what the Bible teaches. Let’s unpack this so you can let go of false guilt that might be popping up in relation to noticing patterns of behavior in others.

Evaluating or Discernment: This refers to making wise, righteous decisions and distinguishing between right and wrong, good and evil. It’s about discernment and evaluating situations, actions, or individuals according to Biblical standards. This type of judgment is often encouraged, especially when it is done with wisdom and humility.

“Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.” (John 7:24)

“You will know them by their fruits.” (Matthew 7:16, referring to discerning people by their actions)

Punitive Judgment or Condemnation: This refers to the act of passing sentence or condemning someone. The Bible teaches that this type of judgment is reserved for God alone, who is the Ultimate Judge of all, and we are cautioned against taking on this role.

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” (Matthew 7:1)

“For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.” (Matthew 7:2)

So, the distinction is between discerning actions or situations rightly (which is encouraged) and condemning or punishing others (which is reserved for God).

Why is it hard to personify evil?

People tend to wince at calling someone or something evil. There a few reasons for this. First, since all sin is evil and we all sin, calling someone or their behavior evil might bring up feelings of discomfort. This is understandable. Second, there is fear that calling someone or their behavior evil can be seen as judging. See the section on this above for a fresh perspective. Third, maybe calling a behavior evil adds pressure to take action. Confronting evil behavior is not easy.

The fourth reason this could be difficult is that we feel compassion for “why” the person might be behaving in an evil manner. I would encourage you that you can feel compassion and still identify evil. Another reason people hesitate to call someone or something evil is that it might appear self righteous. Again, you can identify a pattern of behavior that is evil and know that you yourself are not perfect. Patterns of behavior that are identified as evil is a heart issue. Confronting that can be the most loving thing you could do for them. Finally, calling someone or something evil can simply be unsettling. The reality that evil exists in this world is a very troubling reality.

All Evil vs. Not Evil At All

My brain wants to think in black and white. In this scenario, I’m tempted to believe someone is all evil or not evil at all. This type of thinking can create confusion. Let me put this in a different light. The Bible talks about the Spirit and the flesh doing battle. So if a person has part of them that wants to do what is right and part of them that wants to do evil, which part wins? One part is larger than the other. Romans 1 indicates that if the evil part keeps winning- it will eventually lead to destruction. If someone keeps turning left they will arrive at a different destination than if they keep turning right.

Why is “evil” in the Bible good information for us?

As I mentioned in the opening, teachings about evil is often directed to applying Biblical Truth to the listeners’ own heart. However, it is additionally important to discern evil in others. Jesus specifically tells us in Matthew-

Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits. Matthew 7:15-20

Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Matthew 10:16

Overcoming Evil

The Bible offers various teachings on how to deal with the evil. These teachings emphasize trusting in God’s justice, avoiding retaliation, and pursuing righteousness. Here are several principles drawn from Scripture:

1. Trust in God’s Justice

The Bible consistently teaches that vengeance belongs to God, and it is He who will ultimately deal with the wicked.

• Romans 12:19 – “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.'”
• Psalm 37:9 – “For the evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land.”
• ​Proverbs 24:19-20 – “Fret not yourself because of evildoers, and be not envious of the wicked, for the evil man has no future; the lamp of the wicked will be put out.”

2. Avoid Retaliation and Overcoming Evil with Good

The Bible instructs believers not to repay evil with evil but to respond with love, kindness, and forgiveness.

• Romans 12:17-21 – “Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’ To the contrary, ‘if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
• Matthew 5:44 – “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
• 1 Peter 3:9 – “Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.”

The response to wickedness should not be revenge or hatred, but an effort to reflect God’s love and goodness. It is also important to note that this may not mean being in relationship with this person. 

3. Avoid Association with Evil

The Bible also encourages believers to distance themselves from wickedness and those who practice it, to avoid being influenced by evil.

• Psalm 1:1 – “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers.”
• Proverbs 4:14-15 – “Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of evil. Avoid it; do not go on it; turn away from it and pass on.”
• 2 Corinthians 6:14 – “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?”

Believers are cautioned to avoid aligning themselves with wicked people or adopting their ways. Not only can associating with evil lead us into temptation, but it seeks to destroy believers. Evil wants to destroy faith, our identity in Christ and heap on shame. It wants us to be preoccupied with surviving rather than thriving and having life abundantly. Remember that!

4. Pray for Evil Doers

Jesus taught that instead of harboring resentment, believers should pray for the wicked, hoping for their repentance and transformation.

• Matthew 5:44 – “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
• 1 Timothy 2:1 – “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people.”

Praying for those who are wicked allows God to work in their hearts, and reflects the compassion believers are called to show. This is one of the best ways to show love and maintain a safe distance when necessary.

5. Stay Committed to Righteousness

Rather than focusing on the actions of the wicked, the Bible encourages believers to remain steadfast in their own pursuit of righteousness and trust that God will handle the rest.

• Psalm 37:27-28 – “Turn away from evil and do good; so shall you dwell forever. For the Lord loves justice; he will not forsake his saints. They are preserved forever, but the children of the wicked shall be cut off.”

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• Galatians 6:9 – “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

The call is to keep doing good and trust that in God’s timing, righteousness will prevail. The best way to word this is: Keep your eyes fixed on Christ!

6. Full Armor of God

• Ephesians 6:10-18 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,”

The full armor of God is vital to dealing with evil doers and discerning how to proceed. I want to highlight a few parts of the armor. The Sword of the Spirit is very important as it is the Word of God and reveals evil around us. The Bible verses about evil doers gives us lots of wisdom in navigating those relationships.

Praying in the Spirit is also vital because it provides protection, discernment and clarity. Notice that both things have a power source- the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit empowers us through prayer and the Word to walk the path to which we are called. His Holy Spirit also gives us discernement when navigating the behavior of evil doers.

Wrapping Up Bible Verses About Evil Doers

I pray that you walk away from these Bible verses about evil doers knowing that the Bible is full of warnings and wisdom on the topic of evil. Identifying evil does not make you judgey, self righteous or mean. It simply makes you wise and discerning. Understanding the influence of the enemy on those who yield to his ways is good information for you because it will guide your prayers. This understanding will also be vital in knowing how much or how little access to give this person to your heart and your life.