Bible Verses

The Best 50+ Bible Verses About Fake Friends

Created:
January 15, 2025
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Updated:
February 5, 2025
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Author:
Joseph Cox

Ever felt the sting of betrayal from someone you thought was a friend? You're not alone. The Bible has a lot to say about the pain and lessons that come with fake friends.

Let's dive into some wisdom that can help you navigate these tricky relationships and find solace in genuine connections.

50 Bible Verses About Fake Friends

10 Bible Verses on Identifying Fake Friends

Proverbs 27:6
  • "Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful." — Proverbs 27:6
  • "He who hates, disguises it with his lips, and lays up deceit within himself; When he speaks kindly, do not believe him, for there are seven abominations in his heart; Though his hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness will be revealed before the assembly." — Proverbs 26:24-26
  • "The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart; His words were softer than oil, yet they were drawn swords." — Psalm 55:21
  • "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves." — Matthew 7:15
  • "Having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!" — 2 Timothy 3:5
  • "Wealth makes many friends, but the poor is separated from his friend." — Proverbs 19:4
  • "Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a bad tooth and a foot out of joint." — Proverbs 25:19
  • "Even my own familiar friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted up his heel against me." — Psalm 41:9
  • "A perverse man sows strife, and a whisperer separates the best of friends." — Proverbs 16:28
  • "The righteous should choose his friends carefully, for the way of the wicked leads them astray." — Proverbs 12:26

10 Bible Verses on Betrayal by Friends

Psalm 41:9
  • "Even my own familiar friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted up his heel against me." — Psalm 41:9
  • "Now His betrayer had given them a sign, saying, 'Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him.' Immediately he went up to Jesus and said, 'Greetings, Rabbi!' and kissed Him. But Jesus said to him, 'Friend, why have you come?' Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took Him." — Matthew 26:48-50
  • "When Jesus had said these things, He was troubled in spirit, and testified and said, 'Most assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.'" — John 13:21
  • "Do not trust in a friend; Do not put your confidence in a companion; Guard the doors of your mouth from her who lies in your bosom. For son dishonors father, Daughter rises against her mother, Daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; A man’s enemies are the men of his own household." — Micah 7:5-6
  • "And one will say to him, 'What are these wounds between your arms?' Then he will answer, 'Those with which I was wounded in the house of my friends.'" — Zechariah 13:6
  • "All my close friends abhor me, And those whom I love have turned against me." — Job 19:19
  • "For it is not an enemy who reproaches me; Then I could bear it. Nor is it one who hates me who has exalted himself against me; Then I could hide from him. But it was you, a man my equal, My companion and my acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together, And walked to the house of God in the throng." — Psalm 55:12-14
  • "Debate your case with your neighbor, And do not disclose the secret to another; Lest he who hears it expose your shame, And your reputation be ruined." — Proverbs 25:9-10
  • "Everyone take heed to his neighbor, And do not trust any brother; For every brother will utterly supplant, And every neighbor will walk with slanderers." — Jeremiah 9:4
  • "And while He was still speaking, behold, a multitude; and he who was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them and drew near to Jesus to kiss Him. But Jesus said to him, 'Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?'" — Luke 22:47-48

10 Bible Verses on Trust and Deception

Proverbs 11:13
  • "A talebearer reveals secrets, But he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter." — Proverbs 11:13
  • "He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets; Therefore do not associate with one who flatters with his lips." — Proverbs 20:19
  • "He who works deceit shall not dwell within my house; He who tells lies shall not continue in my presence." — Psalm 101:7
  • "The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?" — Jeremiah 17:9
  • "A faithful witness does not lie, But a false witness will utter lies." — Proverbs 14:5
  • "Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, For would you deceive with your lips?" — Proverbs 24:28
  • "These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren." — Proverbs 6:16-19
  • "He has put forth his hands against those who were at peace with him; He has broken his covenant. The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, But war was in his heart; His words were softer than oil, Yet they were drawn swords." — Psalm 55:20-21
  • "He who walks with integrity walks securely, But he who perverts his ways will become known." — Proverbs 10:9
  • "Getting treasures by a lying tongue Is the fleeting fantasy of those who seek death." — Proverbs 21:6

10 Bible Verses on Wisdom on Friendship

Proverbs 13:20
  • "He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will be destroyed." — Proverbs 13:20
  • "A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity." — Proverbs 17:17
  • "Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up." — Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
  • "As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend." — Proverbs 27:17
  • "A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." — Proverbs 18:24
  • "Make no friendship with an angry man, And with a furious man do not go, Lest you learn his ways And set a snare for your soul." — Proverbs 22:24-25
  • "Ointment and perfume delight the heart, And the sweetness of a man's friend gives delight by hearty counsel." — Proverbs 27:9
  • "Open rebuke is better Than love carefully concealed." — Proverbs 27:5
  • "Do not forsake your own friend or your father's friend, Nor go to your brother's house in the day of your calamity; Better is a neighbor nearby than a brother far away." — Proverbs 27:10
  • "Without counsel, plans go awry, But in the multitude of counselors they are established." — Proverbs 15:22

10 Bible Verses on True vs. False Friends

1 Corinthians 15:33
  • "Do not be deceived: 'Evil company corrupts good habits.'" — 1 Corinthians 15:33
  • "He who loves purity of heart And has grace on his lips, The king will be his friend." — Proverbs 22:11
  • "The righteous should choose his friends carefully, For the way of the wicked leads them astray." — Proverbs 12:26
  • "He who covers a transgression seeks love, But he who repeats a matter separates friends." — Proverbs 17:9
  • "He who blesses his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, It will be counted a curse to him." — Proverbs 27:14
  • "Seldom set foot in your neighbor's house, Lest he become weary of you and hate you." — Proverbs 25:17
  • "A man who bears false witness against his neighbor Is like a club, a sword, and a sharp arrow." — Proverbs 25:18
  • "Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble Is like a bad tooth and a foot out of joint." — Proverbs 25:19
  • "Like one who takes away a garment in cold weather, And like vinegar on soda, Is one who sings songs to a heavy heart." — Proverbs 25:20
  • "If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; And if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; For so you will heap coals of fire on his head, And the Lord will reward you." — Proverbs 25:21-22

What Does the Bible Say About Fake Friends

The Bible offers profound wisdom on the nature of fake friends, urging us to be discerning in our relationships. Proverbs 27:6 reminds us that true friends may offer tough love, but their intentions are genuine, unlike the deceitful kisses of an enemy. This teaches us to value honesty and integrity in our friendships.

Betrayal is a recurring theme, as seen in Psalm 41:9 and the story of Judas in Matthew 26:48-50. These verses highlight the pain of being betrayed by those we trust. Yet, they also serve as a reminder that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone. Jesus himself experienced betrayal, showing us that such trials can be overcome with faith and resilience.

Trust and deception are also addressed, with Proverbs 11:13 and Psalm 101:7 warning against those who spread secrets and lies. These verses encourage us to seek friends who are trustworthy and to be cautious of those who may deceive us. By doing so, we can build relationships founded on mutual respect and loyalty.

Ultimately, the Bible guides us to choose our friends wisely. Proverbs 13:20 and 1 Corinthians 15:33 emphasize the importance of surrounding ourselves with positive influences. By applying these teachings, we can foster genuine connections that uplift and support us, reflecting the true essence of friendship.

How to Apply Fake Friends Bible Verses in Daily Life

Applying the Bible's teachings on fake friends in daily life can be transformative. Start by evaluating your current friendships. Are they built on mutual respect and honesty?

Here are some actionable steps to help you navigate relationships:

  • Set Boundaries: Clearly define what is acceptable behavior and communicate it to your friends.
  • Be Observant: Pay attention to actions rather than words. Consistency in behavior is key.
  • Seek Counsel: Discuss your concerns with trusted family members or mentors for a balanced perspective.
  • Pray for Discernment: Ask for wisdom to identify genuine friends and avoid deceitful ones.
  • Practice Forgiveness: While it's important to protect yourself, also be willing to forgive and move on.

By incorporating these steps, you can foster healthier, more meaningful relationships. Remember, it's better to have a few true friends than many fake ones.

Explore more prayers and Bible verses on PrayersFor or use our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your understanding and faith.

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