What Does the Bible Say about Hanging out with Sinners (2024) ✝️

What Does the Bible Say about Hanging out with Sinners – The Bible speaks about the importance of avoiding bad company, and it warns us to stay away from people who are living in sin. It does not, however, prohibit us from associating with sinners. In fact, it encourages us to reach out to them and share the message of hope and redemption with them.

The Bible makes it clear that we should not be participating in or condoning their sin, but rather we should be showing them love and compassion. So, while it’s important to be careful about who we choose to spend time with, the Bible also encourages us to reach out to those who are living in sin and show them the love of God.

What Does the Bible Say about Hanging out with Sinners

Hanging out with sinners is a controversial topic in the Christian faith. Many people have different opinions about it and the Bible has a lot to say about it. In this blog, we will explore the Bible’s teachings on the issue of hanging out with sinners and what Jesus said about it. We will look at the dangers and the benefits of hanging out with sinners and how it can affect our lives. Finally, we will look at the Old and New Testament’s perspectives on the issue and what we can learn from Jesus’ example.

What is a Sinner?

In the Bible, a sinner is someone who has committed an immoral act. The Bible defines sin as “any act or thought that goes against God’s law”. This includes such things as murder, stealing, lying, and so on. The Bible also says that all people are sinners, whether they recognize it or not, because all of us have broken God’s laws.

Who is a Sinner?

The Bible is clear that all people are sinners. We all have broken God’s laws and fallen short of His standard of holiness. No one is exempt from this. We are all guilty of sin and need God’s forgiveness and grace.

Etymology of the Biblical Word Sinner

The word sinner has a long and complex history, and its etymology can be traced back centuries. While the concept of sin has been around for millennia, the exact origin of the word itself is not so clear. In this blog post, we will explore the etymology of the Biblical word sinner, tracing it back to its roots in Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic.

Origin

The origin of the word sinner can be traced back to the Old Testament of the Bible, where it is used throughout to describe a person who has broken God’s law. In Hebrew, the word for sinner is חוטא, which is derived from the root חָטָא, meaning “to sin” or “to miss the mark.” This root is also found in Aramaic, where it is used to mean “to sin” or “to trespass.”

Hebrew

In Hebrew, the word sinner is derived from the verb חָטָא, which means “to miss the mark” or “to transgress.” This verb is found throughout the Hebrew Bible and is used to describe a person who has broken God’s law. Additionally, the noun form, חוטא, is often used to refer to a sinner or someone who has transgressed.

Greek

The Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, the Septuagint, uses the verb ἁμαρτάνω (hamartano) to refer to “to sin” or “to miss the mark.” This verb is derived from the noun ἁμάρτημα (hamartema), which is used to refer to a “sin.” From this noun, the adjective ἁμαρτωλός (hamartolos) is formed, which is used to describe a “sinner.”

Aramaic

In Aramaic, a language closely related to Hebrew, the verb חָטָא (ḥata’) is used to describe “sin” or “transgression.” Additionally, the noun form חוטא (ḥot’a’) is used to refer to a sinner. This word is found throughout the Aramaic portions of the Bible.

Sources of Conflict

The concept of sin is one that has been debated and discussed for centuries, and the etymology of the word sinner is often a source of disagreement. For example, some believe that the word comes from the Hebrew root חָטָא, while others argue that it is derived from the Greek ἁμαρτωλός or the Aramaic חוטא. Ultimately, the origin of the word sinner remains a source of debate among scholars.

Why did Jesus Hang out with Sinners

The Bible gives us clear instructions about how we should interact with sinners.

First, it tells us that we should not associate with those who practice sin. We are to have nothing to do with them.

Second, it tells us that we should be kind and loving to sinners and show them God’s grace and mercy.

Third, it tells us that we should be a light to sinners and show them the way to God. Finally, it tells us that we should pray for sinners and strive to lead them to Jesus.

How Jesus Hanging Out with Sinners Changed the World

One of the most famous examples of Jesus hanging out with sinners is when he had dinner with the tax collectors and prostitutes. This was a radical act in that time and culture, but it showed the world that Jesus was not just a religious leader, but a loving and compassionate one as well. It showed that God’s grace and mercy extended to all people, no matter what their sins were. This was a powerful message of hope and redemption for all.

1. Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10): Zacchaeus was a tax collector, which was a despised profession in Jesus’ time. He was a wealthy man and was known for cheating people out of their money. Jesus encountered him in Jericho and invited himself to Zacchaeus’ home. After spending time with Jesus, Zacchaeus was so moved that he promised to give half of his possessions to the poor and repay anyone he had cheated four times what he had taken.
2. The Woman Caught in Adultery (John 8:3-11): This woman was brought before Jesus by a group of religious leaders who wanted to test him. They wanted to see if Jesus would follow their interpretation of the law, which would have called for the adulteress to be stoned to death. Jesus instead told the religious leaders that the one without sin should cast the first stone. When the religious leaders left, Jesus told the woman that he did not condemn her and to go and sin no more.
3. Mary Magdalene (Luke 8:1-3): Mary Magdalene was one of Jesus’ closest followers. She had been possessed by seven demons and was a known sinner in the community. Despite her past, she was devoted to Jesus and followed him everywhere. Jesus not only accepted her, but also cast out the demons from her, restoring her to health.
4. The Prodigal Son (Parable) (Luke 15:11-32): The prodigal son was the youngest of two sons. He was known for being wasteful and living a life of sin. He took his inheritance and left home, squandering it on wild living. When his money ran out, he returned home to his father. The father welcomed his son back with open arms, showing mercy and grace to him.
5. The Woman at the Well (John 4:4-42): This woman was a Samaritan woman who had been married multiple times. She was considered a sinner by the Jews and was shunned by her own people. Jesus approached her at a well and asked her for a drink of water. During their conversation, Jesus revealed that he knew her past and offered her living water. He then invited her to come and believe in him, which she did.

What Does God Think of Christians Hanging Out with Sinners?

The Bible is clear that God wants us to show love and kindness to sinners. He does not want us to judge them or treat them differently than we would treat anyone else. He wants us to be a light to them and lead them to Him. This can be done through our words and actions, and by praying for them.

1. Jesus hung out with sinners: Jesus was known for having a unique relationship with sinners. He was willing to break social norms and spend time with those who society deemed unworthy. In fact, the Bible records Jesus eating with tax collectors and sinners (Luke 5:29-32). This is a great example for Christians to follow when it comes to building relationships with sinners.
2. We are all sinners: The Bible makes it clear that all humans are sinners. In Romans 3:23 it says, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” We should remember that we are all sinners in need of God’s grace and mercy.
3. We are called to love others: Jesus commands us to love others, even those who are considered sinners. In Matthew 22:39 Jesus says, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” This means that we are to show the same love, care, and respect to those who are sinners as we do to those who are not.
4. We can learn from them: Hanging out with sinners can be a great learning opportunity for us as Christians. We can learn about their life experiences, struggles, and perspectives on things. This can help us to grow in our faith and better understand how to love and serve others.
5. We can share the gospel with them: Spending time with sinners can be a great way to share the gospel with them. As we build relationships with them and share our own stories, we can also talk to them about the power of Jesus and the hope we have in Him.
6. We can be a witness to them: When we hang out with sinners, we can be a witness to them of what it means to be a Christian. We can show them how our faith in Jesus transforms our lives and provide them with a living example of what it looks like to follow Jesus.

The Dangers of Hanging Out with Sinners

There are some dangers to hanging out with sinners. It is important to remember that when we associate with sinners, they can influence our behavior and our thoughts. We must be careful to not be pulled into their sins and to not be tempted to follow in their footsteps. We must also be careful to not become so close to them that we start to have sympathy for their sins.

1. Proverbs 13:20 states, “He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will suffer harm.” Hanging out with sinners can cause us to become more like them, and reject wisdom.
2. Proverbs 22:24-25 says, “Do not associate with a man given to anger, Or go with a hot-tempered man, Lest you learn his ways And set a snare for your soul.” Hanging out with sinners puts us in danger of learning their bad habits and becoming just like them.
3. Proverbs 22:14 says, “The mouth of an immoral woman is a deep pit, He who is abhorred by the LORD will fall there.” Hanging out with sinners can lead us into deep sin and away from God.
4. 2 Corinthians 6:14-17 says, “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God.” Hanging out with sinners can lead us to spiritual compromise and away from our relationship with God.
5. 1 Corinthians 15:33 says, “Do not be deceived: ‘Evil company corrupts good habits.” Hanging out with sinners can lead us to adopt their bad habits and behaviors.
6. Proverbs 29:27 says, “An ungodly man digs up evil, And it is on his lips like a burning fire.” Hanging out with sinners can lead us to be influenced by their wicked words and thoughts.
7. Galatians 6:7-8 says, “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.” Hanging out with sinners can lead us to sow to the flesh and reap corruption instead of the Spirit and everlasting life.

Reasons that The scriptures say Bad company corrupts good morals

1.1 Corinthians 15:33: “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good morals.’” This verse emphasizes the importance of remaining aware of who we surround ourselves with and the effect that their behavior has on our own. It warns us to be mindful of the company we keep and to avoid being influenced by those with bad morals.

2.Proverbs 13:20: “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” This verse encourages us to seek the company of those who are wise and to learn from their words and actions. It warns us that being around people with bad morals can have a negative effect on us and lead us astray.

3.Proverbs 22:24-25: “Do not associate with a man given to anger, or go with a hot-tempered man, lest you learn his ways and entangle yourself in a snare.” This verse tells us to be cautious when it comes to those who are known for their bad behavior. It warns us that if we associate with someone who has bad morals, we may be influenced by their behavior and find ourselves in a difficult situation.

4.1 Corinthians 15:33: “Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good morals.” This verse warns us to be aware of the company we keep, and to be careful not to be influenced by those with bad morals. It emphasizes

The Benefits of Hanging Out with Sinners

Despite the dangers, there are also some benefits to hanging out with sinners. One benefit is that it can help us to understand them better and to be more understanding and compassionate towards them. We can learn to see them as God does and to show them the same grace and mercy that God has shown us. We can also be a light to them and share the hope that Jesus brings.

1. Increased Understanding: Hanging out with sinners gives us a unique perspective and allows us to understand why people do what they do and the struggles they face. It helps us to empathize with them and become more tolerant and compassionate towards them.
2. Unfiltered Insight: Talking to sinners can give us an unfiltered and honest insight into the darker side of life that we may not otherwise experience. This can be both a valuable insight and a warning to guard against the same pitfalls.
3. Opportunity to Help: Hanging out with sinners can give us the opportunity to help and encourage them in their journey. We can be a light in their darkness and show them a better way to live.
4. Overcoming Prejudice: Spending time with sinners can help us to overcome our preconceived notions and prejudices. We can learn to look beyond the labels and see them as people with stories and struggles just like us.
5. Increased Self-Awareness: Spending time with sinners can help us to become more self-aware, as we become more aware of our own strengths and weaknesses. We can learn to be more tolerant and understanding of others, and also more forgiving of ourselves.
6. Bible Verses: Hanging out with sinners can help us to understand and apply Bible verses in a more meaningful way. We can learn what it means to love our neighbor and to forgive those who have wronged us.
7. A Sense of Accomplishment: Helping sinners can give us a sense of accomplishment, as we feel we are making a difference in their lives. We can feel proud of ourselves for having the courage to reach out to them and offer a helping hand.

What Did Jesus Say About Hanging Out with Sinners?

Jesus was very clear in his teachings that we should be kind and loving to sinners. He said that we should not judge them but show them God’s grace and mercy. He also said that we should be a light to them and lead them to Him. He said that when we do this, we are doing it for Him.

1. He attended parties and feasts with them (Luke 5:29-32). Jesus was invited to a feast by Matthew, a tax collector, and he accepted the invitation. Jesus interacted with the other guests and even shared a meal with them to demonstrate that he was not averse to being in their company.
2. He had meals with them in their homes (Luke 19:1-10). Jesus had dinner at the home of Zacchaeus, a tax collector, who was despised by many in the community. Jesus saw past Zacchaeus’s sin and accepted the invitation to spend time with him.
3. He welcomed their children to be near him (Mark 10:13-16). Jesus welcomed the children who were brought to him, and he even blessed them. This was contrary to the common view that the children of sinners were unworthy of the Lord’s blessing.
4. He healed their illnesses (Matthew 8:1-4). Jesus healed a man with leprosy, a condition that was associated with sinfulness. Jesus chose to show mercy by healing the man’s condition, not judging him for his sins.
5. He forgave their sins (John 8:1-11). Jesus forgave the woman caught in adultery, a woman who was on the brink of being stoned to death. Jesus’s act of mercy and forgiveness was a powerful demonstration of his love for all sinners.
6. He spent time in their company (Luke 15:1-2). Jesus chose to spend time with the tax collectors and other sinners, and he even listened to their stories and shared in their conversations. Jesus was not afraid to be seen with those who were considered “outcasts” by society.

Is it Okay for Christians to Hang Out with Criminals?

The Bible does not directly address this issue, but it does tell us to be kind and loving to all people, even criminals. We should not judge them or treat them differently than we would treat anyone else. We should pray for them and strive to lead them to Jesus.

What Does the Bible Say About Hanging Out with Adulterers?

The Bible is clear that adultery is a sin and should not be tolerated. However, it also tells us to be kind and loving to adulterers. We should not judge them or treat them differently than we would treat anyone else. We should pray for them and strive to lead them to Jesus.

The Bible’s Perspective on Hanging Out with Drunken Sinners

The Bible tells us to be careful not to associate with people who are drunkards or sinners. We are to avoid such people and not be misled by them. At the same time, we are called to show them God’s love and mercy. We should pray for them and strive to lead them to Jesus.

Who is Everyone in the Bible That Hanged Out With Sinners?

One of the most famous examples of someone in the Bible hanging out with sinners is Jesus. He had dinner with tax collectors and prostitutes to show that God’s grace and mercy extends to all people, no matter what their sins were. Other examples include the Apostle Paul, who hung out with sinners to lead them to Jesus.

Is it Okay to Hang Out with Sinners Who Do Not Follow Jesus?

The Bible tells us that we should not associate with people who do not follow Jesus. We are to have nothing to do with them and to be careful not to be deceived by them. However, it also tells us to be kind and loving to them and to show them God’s grace and mercy. We should pray for them and strive to lead them to Jesus.

What Can We Learn from Jesus’ Friendliness Towards Sinners?

We can learn that God’s love and grace extend to all people, no matter what their sins are. We can also learn that we should not judge sinners and should show them kindness and mercy. Finally, we can learn that we should pray for sinners and strive to lead them to Jesus.

The Bible’s Warning About Having Sinners as Companions

The Bible warns us to be careful of who we associate with and to not be misled by sinners. We are to have nothing to do with them and to stay away from them. However, we are also called to show them God’s love and mercy and to pray for them.

What Does the New Testament Say About Hanging Out with Sinners?

The New Testament teaches us that we should be kind and loving to sinners, but not to associate with them. We are to have nothing to do with them, but to be a light to them and to lead them to Jesus. We should also pray for them and strive to lead them to Jesus.

1. Matthew 18:15-17 – In this passage, Jesus instructs His followers to confront a fellow believer who is sinning and to “tell it to the church.” If the brother or sister refuses to repent of their sin, the church is to “treat him like a pagan or a tax collector.” In this context, treating someone “like a pagan or a tax collector” likely means exclusion from the fellowship of the church.
2. 1 Corinthians 5:1-13 – In this passage, Paul instructs the Corinthians to expel a man from their church “for sexual immorality.” He explains that this is to be done “so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.” In other words, Paul is instructing the Corinthians to exclude the man from fellowship in order to drive him to repentance.
3. Titus 3:10-11 – In this passage, Paul instructs Titus to “warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time.” If the man refuses to repent, Paul instructs Titus to “have nothing to do with him.” In other words, he is to exclude him from fellowship.
4. 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 – In this passage, Paul instructs the Thessalonians to “not associate with anyone who is idle and does not live according to the teaching [they] received from us.” In other words, anyone who is not living according to the teachings of the church is to be excluded from fellowship.

Is it Possible for Sinners to Enter Heaven?

Yes, it is possible for sinners to enter heaven. All people, no matter what their sins are, can be forgiven and receive eternal life if they accept Jesus as their Saviour. Jesus died on the cross to pay the price for our sins, so that we can be reconciled to God.

1. Acknowledge that you are a sinner: In order to enter Heaven, it is essential to recognize and acknowledge that you are a sinner and that you are in need of God’s mercy and grace. As Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
2. Repent and turn away from sin: The next step for sinners to enter Heaven is to repent of their sins and to turn away from a life of sin. As 2 Chronicles 7:14 says, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
3. Believe in Jesus Christ: In order to enter Heaven, a sinner must believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. As John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
4. Accept salvation through Jesus Christ: The next step is to accept salvation through Jesus Christ. As Romans 10:9-10 says, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”
5. Follow Jesus: Once a believer has accepted salvation through Jesus Christ, it is important to follow Him. As Luke 9:23 says, “Then He said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.’”
6. Live a life of obedience: A life of obedience to God’s Word and His commandments is essential to enter Heaven. As James 1:22 says, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
7. Love your neighbor: In order to enter Heaven, a sinner must love their neighbor as themselves. As Jesus said in Matthew 22:39, “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
8. Persevere in faith: Finally, in order to enter Heaven, a sinner must persevere in faith. As Hebrews 10:36 says, “For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.”

Jesus Hanging Out with Sinners Bible Verse

The Bible has been a cornerstone of faith, morality, and guidance for millions of people for thousands of years. Among its numerous messages, one that has stood the test of time is the image of Jesus as a compassionate individual who defied social norms to reach out to sinners and outcasts. This article aims to explore Jesus’s radical approach to social inclusivity, primarily focusing on the relevant Bible verses and stories where Jesus chose to spend time with those society shunned.

Stories of Jesus Reaching Out to Sinners and Outcasts

Jesus Friend of Sinners Bible Verse

To truly grasp the gravity of Jesus’s actions, we first need to understand the environment in which he operated. During his time, society was strictly divided among various lines—tax collectors, prostitutes, and other “sinners” were marginalized. Yet, Jesus sought them out as friends. In the Gospel of Matthew 11:19, Jesus is referred to as “a friend of tax collectors and sinners,” challenging the social fabric of his community.

Jesus Sat with Sinners but Did Not Sin with Them

Jesus made it a point to dine with those who were scorned, but it is essential to note that while he sat with sinners, he did not sin with them. Jesus maintained his divine qualities and moral standards throughout these interactions. This highlights that Jesus was interested in uplifting those around him, not partaking in their downfalls.

What Did Jesus Say About Sitting with Sinners

It’s one thing to act, but what did Jesus himself have to say about these interactions? In Luke 5:31-32, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” These words form the crux of Jesus’s approach to social interaction. He acknowledged the importance of reaching out to those in spiritual need rather than sticking solely with the pious.

Why Did Jesus Hang Out with Sinners

But why would Jesus, a revered figure, choose to associate himself with society’s outcasts? Simply put, Jesus was breaking the existing social barriers to make a point about the universal need for divine love and forgiveness. His interactions were not endorsements of sin but an open invitation for transformation.

How Did Jesus Treat Sinners

How Did Jesus Treat Sinners?

1. With Compassion: Jesus didn’t look down on people who were considered sinners; He looked at them with eyes full of compassion and understanding.
2. Non-Judgmentally: While the religious leaders were quick to cast the first stone, Jesus was all about giving people second chances. Remember the woman caught in adultery? Jesus was like, “He who is without sin, throw the first stone.” Spoiler alert: No one did.
3. Open Dialogue: Jesus wasn’t afraid to have conversations with sinners. He asked questions, listened, and provided wise counsel. Think of the Samaritan woman at the well; Jesus engaged her in a meaningful conversation that changed her life.
4. Shared Meals: Eating with someone in those times was like saying, “You’re accepted here.” Jesus ate with tax collectors, prostitutes, and other sinners to show them that they were valued.
5. Gave Hope: Jesus offered a message of hope and redemption. He often told sinners that their sins were forgiven and that they should “go and sin no more,” giving them a fresh start.
6. Treated Them as Individuals: Jesus never lumped sinners into a category. He treated each person as an individual deserving of love and respect.
7. Invited Them to Follow Him: Instead of shunning sinners, Jesus often invited them to follow Him, to be part of His inner circle. Remember Matthew the tax collector? He became one of the Twelve Apostles!
8. Healed and Restored: Whether it was physical healing like curing leprosy or casting out demons, or emotional healing like offering forgiveness, Jesus was in the restoration business.

So there you have it! Jesus had a way of treating sinners that broke all the societal norms of His day. It was radical, it was groundbreaking, and it was all about love and second chances. If you’re feeling like you’ve messed up, take heart! There’s always a seat at Jesus’ table for you.

What Does the Bible Say About Being Friends with Sinners

The New Testament is rife with instances where Jesus took the initiative to befriend and heal sinners. Biblical texts suggest that Jesus’s mission was to seek and save the lost, regardless of their societal standing. He looked beyond the label of ‘sinner’ to see the inherent worth in every individual.

Why Did Jesus Eat with Sinners

Sharing a meal in the times of Jesus was a sign of social acceptance, often reserved for friends and family. By dining with sinners, Jesus shattered societal norms, asserting that everyone was worthy of God’s love and acceptance. He utilized these occasions not just for physical nourishment but for spiritual enrichment, laying the groundwork for a new kind of community founded on divine love.

Why Was Jesus Friends with Sinners

So, why was Jesus friends with sinners? The answer is simple: to show God’s unconditional love and to invite them into a transformative relationship with Him. He did not befriend sinners to be politically correct or to gain social approval. Instead, he was guided by a divine mandate to love unconditionally and to call all to a higher standard of living.

Final Thoughts – What Does the Bible Say about Hanging out with Sinners

Hanging out with sinners is a difficult and controversial topic. The Bible has a lot to say about it and has given us clear instructions on how we should interact with sinners. We should be kind and loving to them, but also be careful not to be pulled into their sins or be tempted to follow in their footsteps. We should also be a light to them and share the hope that Jesus brings.