SCRIPTURES

Child abuse
(Matthew 18:6, Ephesians 6:4, Colossians 3:21, Psalm 127:3, Proverbs 22:6)
Child abuse refers to any act or failure to act by a parent, caregiver, or another adult that
results in harm or potential harm to a child. Child abuse can manifest in various forms,
including physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect. It is a serious and
widespread societal issue that can have devastating and long-lasting effects on a child's
physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.

1. Matthew 18:6 (NIV): "But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in
me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck
and to be drowned in the depths of the sea."
Summary: This verse warns against leading children astray and causing them to sin. It
underscores the gravity of harming or negatively influencing children.
2. Ephesians 6:4 (NIV): "Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them
up in the training and instruction of the Lord."
Summary: This passage advises parents to avoid provoking their children to anger or
resentment. Instead, it encourages nurturing them in a loving and spiritually enriching
environment.
3. Colossians 3:21 (NIV): "Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become
discouraged."
Summary: Similar to Ephesians 6:4, this verse warns against actions or behaviors that could
discourage or harm children. It emphasizes the importance of fostering a positive and
nurturing atmosphere within the family.
4. Psalm 127:3 (NIV): "Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from
him."
Summary: This verse highlights the value of children and their role as a gift from God. It
encourages a perspective that respects and cherishes children as blessings.
5. Proverbs 22:6 (NIV): "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when
they are old they will not turn from it."
Summary: This verse underscores the significance of guiding children in the right path from a
young age, emphasizing responsible parenting and mentorship.
While these scriptures do not explicitly address modern concepts of child abuse, they
promote principles of love, respect, and proper upbringing that can be applied to ensure the
well-being and positive development of children. It's essential to interpret and apply these
verses in the context of promoting a safe and nurturing environment for children in line with
contemporary standards and values.
 Substance Abuse
(Ephesians 5:18, Proverbs 20:1, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Galatians 5-19-21, 1 Peter 5:8)
Substance abuse, also known as substance use disorder or drug abuse, refers to the harmful
or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. It involves a
pattern of behaviors where an individual consumes substances in a way that leads to
significant distress, impairment in daily life, or a lack of control over their consumption.
Substance abuse can have serious physical, psychological, social, and legal consequences.
The Bible contains several verses that indirectly address the issue of substance abuse by
emphasizing self-control, sobriety, and the harmful consequences of excessive consumption.
While the Bible doesn't use modern terminology like "substance abuse," these verses can be
applied to encourage responsible and sober living. Here are some relevant scriptures along
with their summaries:
1. Ephesians 5:18 (NIV): "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery.
Instead, be filled with the Spirit."
Summary: This verse advises against excessive alcohol consumption, which can lead to
immoral behavior. It encourages believers to seek spiritual fulfillment instead of turning to
substances.
2. Proverbs 20:1 (NIV): "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is
deceived thereby is not wise."
Summary: This proverb warns against the deceptive nature of alcohol, emphasizing that those
who are deceived by it lack wisdom. It underscores the potential dangers of overindulgence.
3. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV): "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the
Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your
own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies."
Summary: These verses remind believers that their bodies are sacred and should be treated
with respect. This includes avoiding actions that harm the body, such as substance abuse.
4. Galatians 5:19-21 (NIV): "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality,
impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of
rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the
like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the
kingdom of God."
Summary: This passage lists various sinful behaviors, including drunkenness, and warns that
those who engage in such behavior will not inherit the kingdom of God. It emphasizes the
need for self-control and righteous living.
5. 1 Peter 5:8 (NIV): "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around
like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."
Summary: This verse encourages believers to be vigilant and clear-minded, as a lack of
sobriety can make one vulnerable to spiritual and moral pitfalls.
These verses stress the importance of moderation, self-control, and responsible living, all of
which are relevant to addressing substance abuse issues. While the Bible doesn't explicitly
address modern substances, these principles can be applied to promote a lifestyle that avoids
the harms associated with substance abuse.
 Capital Punishment
(Genesis 9:6, Exodus 21:12, Numbers 35:30-31, Romans 13:4, Matt 26:52)
Capital punishment, also known as the death penalty, has been a topic of ethical, moral, and
legal debate for centuries. The Bible contains various verses that have been interpreted both
in support of and against capital punishment. Here are some key verses related to the topic
along with summaries:
1. Genesis 9:6 (NIV): "Whoever sheds human blood, by humans shall their blood be shed;
for in the image of God has God made mankind."
Summary: This verse is often cited in support of capital punishment, as it is interpreted as a
divine commandment for retribution and the execution of murderers.
2. Exodus 21:12 (NIV): "Anyone who strikes a person with a fatal blow is to be put to
death."
Summary: This verse is part of the Mosaic Law and prescribes the death penalty for those
who commit murder.
3. Numbers 35:30-31 (NIV): "Anyone who kills a person is to be put to death as a murderer
only on the testimony of witnesses. But no one is to be put to death on the testimony of only
one witness. Do not accept a ransom for the life of a murderer, who deserves to die. They are
to be put to death."
Summary: These verses provide guidelines for the execution of murderers and emphasize the
importance of multiple witnesses and no ransom for their lives.
4. Romans 13:4 (NIV): "For the one in authority is God's servant for your good. But if you
do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God's servants,
agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer."
Summary: This New Testament verse has been interpreted by some to support the idea that
governing authorities have the right to use capital punishment to punish wrongdoers.
5. Matthew 26:52 (NIV): "Put your sword back in its place," Jesus said to him, "for all who
draw the sword will die by the sword."
Summary: This statement by Jesus is often cited in opposition to the use of violence,
including capital punishment, and is seen as a call for non-violence and forgiveness.
It's important to note that interpretations of these verses vary among religious scholars and
denominations. While some argue that these verses support capital punishment, others
emphasize the message of forgiveness, mercy, and the sanctity of life. The stance on capital
punishment often depends on one's theological and ethical beliefs.
 Poverty
(Proverbs 14:21, Proverbs 19:17, Matthew 25: 35-36, James 2: 15-16, Luke 6 20:21,
Psalm 82:3-4
The Bible contains numerous scriptures that address the issue of poverty, emphasizing the
importance of caring for the poor and marginalized. These verses offer guidance on how
believers should respond to poverty and injustice. Here are some key poverty-related
scriptures along with summaries:
1. Proverbs 14:21 (NIV): "Whoever despises their neighbor sins, but blessed are those who
are kind to the needy."
Summary: This verse highlights the importance of showing kindness to the needy and
suggests that neglecting the poor is considered a sinful act.
2. Proverbs 19:17 (NIV): "Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward
them for what they have done."
Summary: This verse underscores the idea that acts of charity and kindness toward the poor
are seen as lending to the Lord and will be rewarded.
3. Matthew 25:35-36 (NIV): "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was
thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed
clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you
came to visit me."
Summary: In this passage, Jesus emphasizes the importance of caring for the less fortunate
and equates acts of kindness toward them with acts of service to Him.
4. James 2:15-16 (NIV): "Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If
one of you says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about their
physical needs, what good is it?"
Summary: James challenges believers not to merely offer words of comfort to the poor but to
take practical action to meet their physical needs.
5. Luke 6:20-21 (NIV): "Looking at his disciples, he said: 'Blessed are you who are poor, for
yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied.
Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.'"
Summary: Jesus speaks of the spiritual blessings and rewards that await the poor and
suffering, emphasizing the significance of their place in the kingdom of God.
6. Psalm 82:3-4 (NIV): "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."
Summary: This psalm calls on believers to defend and uphold the cause of the poor and
oppressed, emphasizing the need for justice and protection for vulnerable individuals.
These scriptures emphasize the moral and ethical duty to care for the poor and marginalized
in society, highlighting compassion, kindness, and justice as key principles in addressing
poverty.
 Unemployment
Proverbs 16:3, 2 Thessalonians 3: 10, Proverbs 22:29, 1 Timothy 5:8, Psalm 34:10

Unemployment is a term used to describe the state of individuals who are willing and able to
work but are currently without a job and actively seeking employment. It is an economic and
social issue that can have significant consequences for individuals, families, and society as a
whole. Unemployment can result from various factors, including economic downturns,
technological changes, shifts in industries, and personal circumstances.
Here are some Bible verses that address the concept of unemployment, along with
explanations of their relevance:
1. Proverbs 16:3 (NIV): "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your
plans."
Explanation: This verse encourages individuals to commit their work and plans to the Lord.
It implies that seeking God's guidance and committing one's efforts to Him can lead to
success, even in times of unemployment.
2. 2 Thessalonians 3:10 (NIV): "For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule:
'The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.'"
Explanation: This verse emphasizes the importance of work and personal responsibility. It
suggests that those who are able to work should not be idle, as idleness can lead to negative
consequences.
3. Proverbs 22:29 (NIV): "Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before
kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank."
Explanation: This verse highlights the value of skills and excellence in one's work. It
suggests that those who excel in their skills and work diligently have the potential for career
advancement and success.
4. 1 Timothy 5:8 (NIV): "Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for
their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever."
Explanation: This verse underscores the responsibility of providing for one's family. It
implies that failing to do so is a serious matter, emphasizing the importance of employment
and financial support.
5. Psalm 34:10 (NIV): "The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord
lack no good thing."
Explanation: While not directly related to unemployment, this verse conveys the idea that
seeking the Lord can lead to the fulfillment of one's needs, including employment and
provision during difficult times.
These verses offer guidance and principles related to work, personal responsibility, and
seeking God's guidance during times of unemployment. They encourage individuals to
approach employment with diligence, integrity, and trust in God's provision. Additionally,
they highlight the importance of supporting oneself and one's family through honest work.
 Prejudice and discrimination
Galatians 3:28 James 2:1-4 Acts 10: 34-35 Romans 2:11, 1 John 4:20
Prejudice refers to preconceived opinions, attitudes, or beliefs that are formed about a
particular individual or group without sufficient knowledge or understanding. These opinions
are often negative and are based on stereotypes or assumptions.
Discrimination involves actions, behaviors, or practices that treat individuals or groups
unfairly or unequally based on their perceived differences or characteristics
The Bible contains several scriptures that address the issues of prejudice and discrimination,
emphasizing the importance of treating all individuals with fairness, love, and respect,
regardless of their background or characteristics. Here are some key scriptures along with
their meanings:
1. Galatians 3:28 (NIV): "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is
there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."
Meaning: This verse highlights the equality of all believers in Christ, regardless of their
ethnic, social, or gender differences. It emphasizes the unity and oneness that should exist
within the Christian community, transcending divisions.
2. James 2:1-4 (NIV): "My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ
must not show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and
fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention
to the man wearing fine clothes and say, 'Here’s a good seat for you,' but say to the poor man,
'You stand there' or 'Sit on the floor by my feet,' have you not discriminated among
yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?"
Meaning: This passage condemns favoritism or discrimination based on a person's
socioeconomic status. It reminds believers not to show partiality but to treat all individuals
with fairness and without prejudice.
3. Acts 10:34-35 (NIV): "Then Peter began to speak: 'I now realize how true it is that God
does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what
is right.'"
Meaning: Peter's statement reflects the idea that God does not discriminate based on
nationality or ethnicity. God welcomes all who seek Him and live according to His ways,
regardless of their cultural or ethnic background.
4. Romans 2:11 (NIV): "For God does not show favoritism."
Meaning: This verse reinforces the idea that God treats all individuals with impartiality,
emphasizing His fairness and justice. It serves as a reminder that believers should follow
God's example and avoid showing favoritism or prejudice.
5. 1 John 4:20 (NIV): "Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For
whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom
they have not seen."
Meaning: This verse highlights the incompatibility of hatred or discrimination toward fellow
human beings with genuine love for God. It underscores the importance of loving and
treating others with respect and kindness as a demonstration of one's love for God.
These scriptures emphasize the principles of equality, fairness, and love for all individuals,
regardless of their differences. They remind believers to reject prejudice and discrimination
and instead promote unity, inclusivity, and justice in their interactions with others.
 Male and female roles and relationships
(Genesis 1:27, Genesis 2:18, Ephesians 5: 22-25, Galatians 3: 28, 1 Corinthians 11:3

The Bible contains various verses that discuss male and female roles and relationships, often
within the context of marriage, family, and the Christian community. These verses reflect the
cultural and societal norms of their times and have been interpreted in various ways by
different religious traditions. Here are some key Bible verses on this topic, along with their
general meanings:
1. Genesis 1:27 (NIV): "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he
created them; male and female he created them."
Meaning: This verse emphasizes that both males and females are created in the image of
God, highlighting the equal worth and value of both genders in the eyes of God.
2. Genesis 2:18 (NIV): "The Lord God said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone. I will
make a helper suitable for him.'"
Meaning: This verse is often cited to discuss the complementary roles of male and female in
the context of marriage. It suggests that woman was created as a helper suitable for man.
3. Ephesians 5:22-23 (NIV): "Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to
the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body,
of which he is the Savior."
Meaning: These verses are often discussed in the context of marriage and suggest a
hierarchical relationship where the husband is seen as the head of the household, with the
wife called to submit to him.
4. Ephesians 5:25 (NIV): "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and
gave himself up for her."
Meaning: In the same passage, husbands are instructed to love their wives sacrificially,
drawing a parallel to Christ's love for the church. This emphasizes the importance of love and
mutual respect in the marital relationship.
5. Galatians 3:28 (NIV): "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is
there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."
Meaning: This verse highlights the spiritual equality of all believers in Christ, regardless of
their gender or social status. It stresses that in the eyes of God, there is no distinction between
male and female.
6. 1 Corinthians 11:3 (NIV): "But I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ,
and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God."
Meaning: This verse is often cited in discussions of gender roles within the church. It
suggests a hierarchical order in terms of authority, with God at the top.
It's important to note that interpretations of these verses can vary widely among different
Christian denominations and individuals. While some may emphasize traditional gender
roles, others may emphasize the principles of mutual love, respect, and equality between
husbands and wives. Contemporary interpretations often seek to balance these passages with
broader principles of love, justice, and equality for all individuals, regardless of gender.
 Violence, vandalism and war
(Exodus 20:13, Matthew 5:39, Exodus 20:15, Matthew 5:9, Matthew 26:52, Romans
12:18)
The Bible addresses the topics of violence, vandalism, and war in various passages, providing
insights, guidance, and reflections on these subjects. Here are some Bible verses related to
each of these topics along with brief explanations:
Violence:
1. Exodus 20:13 (NIV): "You shall not murder."
Explanation: This commandment from the Ten Commandments explicitly prohibits the
taking of human life, condemning violence and murder as sinful acts.
2. Matthew 5:39 (NIV): "But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you
on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also."
Explanation: In this verse, Jesus teaches a non-violent approach to conflict resolution,
encouraging turning the other cheek instead of responding to violence with violence.
Vandalism:
1. Exodus 20:15 (NIV): "You shall not steal."
Explanation: This commandment prohibits theft, which includes acts of vandalism where
property is damaged or destroyed.
War:
1. Matthew 5:9 (NIV): "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of
God."
Explanation: This verse highlights the value of peacemaking and reconciliation as desirable
qualities in the eyes of God.
2. Matthew 26:52 (NIV): "Put your sword back in its place,' Jesus said to him, 'for all
who draw the sword will die by the sword.'"
Explanation: Jesus admonishes the use of violence and weapons, suggesting that those who
resort to violence will face violent consequences themselves.
3. Romans 12:18 (NIV): "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with
everyone."
Explanation: This verse encourages believers to strive for peace and peaceful relationships
with others.
4. Isaiah 2:4 (NIV): "He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for
many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into
pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for
war anymore."
Explanation: This passage envisions a future of peace, where instruments of war are
transformed into tools for productive and peaceful purposes.
While these verses address violence, vandalism, and war in different ways, they generally
promote principles of peace, non-violence, and reconciliation. Interpretations of these
scriptures can vary among different religious traditions and individuals, but many emphasize
the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions to conflicts and avoiding harm to others.

Treatment of the mentally and physically challenged

Matthew 25:40, Leviticus 19:14, Isaiah 35: 3-4, Exodus 4:11, 1Chorithians 12:22-26
The Bible contains verses that provide guidance and reflection on the treatment of the
mentally and physically challenged individuals, emphasizing principles of compassion, care,
and inclusion. Here are some key Bible verses on this topic along with brief explanations:
1. Matthew 25:40 (NIV): "The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of
the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'"
Explanation: In this passage, Jesus teaches the importance of caring for those in need,
including those who are marginalized or disadvantaged. He equates acts of kindness and
compassion toward them with acts of service to Him.
2. Leviticus 19:14 (NIV): "Do not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block in front of the
blind, but fear your God. I am the Lord."
Explanation: This verse emphasizes the importance of treating people with disabilities with
respect and consideration, warning against cruelty or mistreatment.
3. Isaiah 35:3-4 (NIV): "Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; say to
those with fearful hearts, 'Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with
vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.'"
Explanation: These verses encourage supporting and uplifting individuals who are physically
or mentally challenged, offering reassurance that God is their source of strength and
salvation.
4. Exodus 4:11 (NIV): "The Lord said to him [Moses], 'Who gave human beings their
mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not
I, the Lord?'"
Explanation: This verse highlights God's role as the Creator and emphasizes that people with
disabilities are part of God's creation. It encourages an attitude of acceptance and
understanding.
5. 1 Corinthians 12:22-26 (NIV): "On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be
weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special
honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, while our
presentable parts need no special treatment."
Explanation: These verses, found in Paul's letter to the Corinthians, liken the Church to a
body with many different parts. They emphasize that those who seem weaker or less
honorable should be treated with special honor and care.
These verses underscore the importance of treating individuals with mental and physical
challenges with kindness, dignity, and respect. They remind believers of their moral and
ethical duty to care for those who may be more vulnerable or face unique challenges and to
see the inherent value and worth of every individual, regardless of their abilities or
disabilities.

HIV/AIDS
 James 5:14-15, Psalm 34:18, Matthew 11:28, Romans 15:1, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Dealing with HIV/AIDS is a challenging and sensitive issue, and while the Bible does not
specifically address this modern medical condition, it does contain verses that can be
interpreted to offer guidance, comfort, and support to individuals and communities affected
by HIV/AIDS. Here are some Bible verses and their meanings in the context of dealing with
health challenges like HIV/AIDS:
1. James 5:14-15 (NIV): "Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church
to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in
faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they
will be forgiven."
Meaning: These verses emphasize the power of faith, prayer, and community support in
times of illness. While they do not guarantee physical healing, they highlight the importance
of seeking spiritual and emotional comfort when facing health challenges.
2. Psalm 34:18 (NIV): "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are
crushed in spirit."
Meaning: This verse offers solace and reassurance that God is near to those who are
suffering, including individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS. It underscores God's
compassion and willingness to provide comfort in times of distress.
3. Matthew 11:28 (NIV): "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give
you rest."
Meaning: These words of Jesus invite individuals dealing with the physical and emotional
burdens of HIV/AIDS to seek solace in Him. It reminds them that in their weariness, they can
find rest and comfort through faith.
4. Romans 15:1 (NIV): "We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and
not to please ourselves."
Meaning: This verse encourages a spirit of compassion and support within Christian
communities. It reminds believers to support and uplift those who may be physically or
emotionally weaker, including those affected by health challenges like HIV/AIDS.
5. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV): "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy
Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were
bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies."
Meaning: These verses underscore the importance of treating one's body with care and
respect, recognizing it as a temple of the Holy Spirit. This can be seen as a call to make
responsible choices regarding one's health and well-being, including practices related to
HIV/AIDS prevention and care.
While the Bible may not directly address HIV/AIDS, these verses offer principles of faith,
support, compassion, and responsible stewardship of one's health that can be applied to
individuals and communities dealing with this health challenge. Additionally, many religious
organizations and communities offer support and resources for individuals affected by
HIV/AIDS.