The seven deadly sins—pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, and sloth—represent powerful temptations that can pull us away from God’s purpose for our lives.
While the term “seven deadly sins” isn’t used directly in the Bible, the concepts behind each of these sins are clearly addressed throughout Scripture.
This post explores bible verses about the seven deadly sins to help you recognize the dangers of these sins and find hope, healing, and guidance through God’s Word.
Whether you’re seeking personal growth or spiritual clarity, these verses can provide the foundation to realign your heart and mind with God’s truth.
1. Proverbs 16:18
Proverbs 16:18
Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.
Explanation:
This verse clearly warns against pride, often considered the root of all other sins. It reminds us that arrogance leads to downfall and teaches us the value of humility before God.
2. 1 John 2:16
1 John 2:16
For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world.
Explanation:
This verse connects several deadly sins—lust, greed, and pride—showing how they stem from worldly desires rather than godly living. It challenges us to align our lives with God’s will, not worldly temptations.
3. James 3:16
James 3:16
For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.
Explanation:
Envy and selfishness often lead to conflict and chaos. This verse serves as a clear warning that these attitudes open the door to destructive behavior.
4. Galatians 5:19–21
Galatians 5:19–21
Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these… those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Explanation:
This powerful passage outlines multiple sinful behaviors, including lust, wrath, envy, and gluttony. It highlights the seriousness of living according to the flesh rather than the Spirit.
5. Proverbs 14:30
Proverbs 14:30
A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot.
Explanation:
Envy isn’t just harmful spiritually—it affects us physically and emotionally. This verse encourages a peaceful heart and warns of the deep damage envy causes.
6. Colossians 3:5
Colossians 3:5
Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.
Explanation:
This verse directly calls believers to turn away from lust and greed, naming them as forms of idolatry. It’s a strong reminder to keep our hearts centered on God.
7. Romans 12:19
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.”
Explanation:
Wrath, or uncontrolled anger, is condemned here. This verse teaches us to trust God with justice rather than taking matters into our own hands.
8. Philippians 3:19
Philippians 3:19
Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things.
Explanation:
Gluttony and living for self-indulgence are addressed here. This verse warns against focusing on earthly pleasures over eternal truth.
9. Ecclesiastes 4:4
Ecclesiastes 4:4
Then I saw that all toil and all skill in work come from a man’s envy of his neighbor. This also is vanity and a striving after wind.
Explanation:
Envy can even drive our work and ambitions, but Scripture reminds us that comparison is ultimately meaningless. True peace comes from contentment.
10. Matthew 5:28
Matthew 5:28
But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
Explanation:
Jesus speaks directly about the sin of lust, emphasizing that sin begins in the heart. This verse challenges us to seek purity in both thought and action.
11. Titus 1:7
Titus 1:7
For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain.
Explanation:
While this verse speaks about church leaders, the qualities it warns against—pride, wrath, and greed—are dangerous for all believers. God calls us to self-control and integrity.
12. Proverbs 23:21
Proverbs 23:21
For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and slumber will clothe them with rags.
Explanation:
This verse links gluttony and laziness (sloth) with eventual ruin. It reminds us to practice moderation and diligence in all areas of life.
13. Ephesians 4:31
Ephesians 4:31
Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.
Explanation:
This verse urges believers to remove wrath and anger from their lives. These emotions block spiritual growth and harm relationships.
14. Hebrews 13:5
Hebrews 13:5
Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Explanation:
Greed often stems from a lack of trust in God’s provision. This verse offers reassurance and encourages contentment over material desire.
15. Matthew 6:24
Matthew 6:24
No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other… You cannot serve God and money.
Explanation:
This verse speaks to the dangers of greed and idolatry. When we put money or possessions above God, we lose sight of our true purpose.
Final Thoughts: Finding Freedom and Faith Beyond Sin
The seven deadly sins may be subtle or obvious in our lives, but the Bible gives us clear warnings and hopeful solutions. Each of these bible verses about the seven deadly sins invites us to examine our hearts, turn away from sin, and walk closer with God.
By reflecting on these Scriptures, we’re reminded that while sin is powerful, God’s grace is stronger. Through faith, repentance, and prayer, we can overcome temptation and grow in spiritual maturity.
Which of these verses stood out to you most? Have you experienced God’s help in overcoming any of these struggles?
Share your story, favorite verses, or thoughts in the comments. Let’s grow in faith together!