Name-Calling in the Bible

We can find Scriptures both condemning, and demonstrating, instances of name-calling.

Prohibition of Name-Calling

The Bible generally advises against name-calling, especially when it stems from unrighteous anger or malice. For instance, Matthew 5:22 warns that anyone who insults a brother or calls them a "fool" will be subject to judgment and potentially hellfire. Ephesians 4:31-32 also encourages believers to put away bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and slander, and instead be kind and forgiving.

Instances of Name-Calling

Despite these prohibitions, there are notable instances in the Bible where name-calling is used by prophets, apostles, and even Jesus, often to expose the true nature of individuals or groups.

Old Testament Prophets: Various prophets used strong language to condemn the sins of their people. Examples include:

• Job called his friends “miserable comforters” (Job 16:2).
• Hosea referred to people as “adulterers” (Hosea 1:4).
• Amos called certain women “cows” (Amos 4:1).
• Micah labeled a house as “wicked” (Micah 6:10).
• Nahum described a city as “city of blood” (Nahum 3:1).
• Zephaniah called people “oppressors, rebellious and defiled” (Zephaniah 3:1).
• Malachi called some “robbers” (Malachi 3:9).

Jesus: Jesus used strong terms to criticize the Pharisees and other religious leaders, calling them “hypocrites,” “blind guides,” “blind fools,” “whitewashed tombs,” “snakes,” and “brood of vipers” (Matthew 23, Luke 11). This was done to reveal their hypocrisy and true nature.

Apostles: The apostles also used name-calling in their teachings. James called his fellow believers “adulterous” (James 4:4), and Paul referred to the Galatians as “foolish” (Galatians 3:1).

Justification and Context

The key distinction made in the Bible is the intention and context behind name-calling. When Jesus and the apostles used harsh terms, it was from a place of righteous anger and truth, not from personal anger or malice. They aimed to expose sin and call people to repentance. In contrast, name-calling driven by personal anger, malice, or to demean others is condemned.

Conclusion

Mocking or belittling or scorning is not part of honoring all people, which we have been commanded to do (1 Peter 2:17). We have no part in character assassination or accusation. Speaking the truth as part of righteousness is part of lifting up a standard. There is evil in our political and church leadership as well as in many of our institutions. This must be declared as evil and removed from our nation.

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