What Does The Bible Say About Manipulation: Bible Verses About Manipulation

As Christians, we are called to love our neighbor and to treat others the way we would want to be treated. Unfortunately, some would seek to take advantage of our good nature by manipulating us for their own gain. While it can be difficult to spot manipulation, it’s important to be aware of the signs so that we can protect ourselves from being taken advantage of. The Bible has many valuable pieces of advice about manipulation and how we should deal with those who seek to control us.

What Is Manipulation?

Manipulation is defined as “the use of cunning or deceit to achieve one’s goals.” When someone manipulates us, they are using our good intentions against us to get what they want. This can take many forms, but some common examples include gaslighting, guilt-tripping, and emotional blackmail.

Bible Verses About Manipulation

Manipulation is a common tactic used by people to get what they want. Whether it’s convincing someone to do something they don’t want to do, or making them feel guilty for not doing what the manipulator wants, this behavior is often used to control others. Manipulators use skill, charm, and cunning to get what they want from someone. The Bible verse Matthew 7:15 warns against manipulation, specifically mentioning “wolves in sheep’s clothing.”

“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.” (NIV)

These are people who appear to be harmless but are actually dangerous. People should be aware of this type of manipulation and be careful not to fall victim to it. Manipulators are often skilled at appearing sincere and trustworthy, so it’s important to be on your guard against them. If you suspect someone is trying to manipulate you, it’s best to confront them directly and ask them to stop. Manipulation is a destructive force that can damage relationships and lead to division. Be wary of those who try to manipulate others, and protect yourself from their schemes.

Flattery is a form of manipulation that is often used to gain favor or take advantage of others. In Romans 16-18, we are warned against those who flatter others for their own gain.

“For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.” (ESV)

These manipulators are often false in their compliments, and their actions are motivated by ulterior motives. While it can be difficult to resist flattery, it is important to be aware of its dangers. Those who flatter others are often trying to take advantage of them, and their motives should be questioned. If we are wise to their ways, we can avoid being manipulated by them.

Proverbs 26:24-26 speaks of manipulators – those who may disguise themselves with sweet words, but inwardly are full of deceit.

“Enemies disguise themselves with their lips,
but in their hearts they harbor deceit.
Though their speech is charming, do not believe them,
for seven abominations fill their hearts.
Their malice may be concealed by deception,
but their wickedness will be exposed in the assembly.” (NIV)

Such people are often difficult to spot, as their manipulative behavior may be concealed by their seemingly charming exterior. However, it is important to be aware of such people, as their manipulations can be damaging and destructive. In the end, their true nature will be revealed, and they will be exposed for the manipulators that they are.

In his letter to Timothy, Paul warned of the coming days of upheaval and persecution. He advised Timothy to stay away from those who would seek to manipulate and control others, instead remaining focused on living a godly life.

“But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.”
2 Timothy 3:1-5 (ESV)

These manipulators would be characterized by their love of money and their desire for power. They would be heartless and ruthless, devoid of any true faith or compassion. We see these same characteristics in people today who exploit others for personal gain. These people can be in our close community, but we also have to be careful of manipulators that try to control us from afar, such as politicians, the media, or marketing schemes.

In a world that is increasingly divided, we must be careful not to fall prey to those who would seek to use us for their own gain. Instead, we should follow Paul’s advice and remain focused on living a more godly life, obedient to God’s will even in the midst of trials and tribulations.

Satan: The Ultimate Manipulator

Satan is the master of manipulation. He is a deceiver who disguises himself as an angel of light in order to lead people astray. In 2 Corinthians 2:11-14, we are warned against being deceived by Satan’s schemes.

“And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.” (NIV)

We are told to be on our guard because Satan is like a lion prowling around looking for someone to devour. We must not be naïve or gullible, but instead, we must be wise and discerning. Otherwise, we may find ourselves falling victim to Satan’s lies and schemes. Let us all be on our guard against Satan’s manipulation, so that we may remain firm in our faith and true to God.

Conclusion To What Does The Bible Say About Manipulation

There are manipulators among us. They’re the ones who always seem to know just what to say to get what they want. They’re smooth talkers and skilled communicators, and they’re often very successful in life. But there’s something sinister about them, something that makes them ultimately unsuccessful in the long run.

The Bible warns us about these manipulators in Matthew 24:4. In this scripture, Jesus teaches us that in the last days there will be false prophets who will come and try to deceive us. He goes on to say that we must be on our guard against them so that we will not be led astray.

“And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.” (KJV)

The manipulator is a deceiver, plain and simple. He (or she) uses deception to get what he wants. And while he may be successful in the short term, his deception will ultimately be his downfall.

So be warned about the manipulators among us. They may be charming and attractive, but they’re ultimately destructive. Avoid them at all costs.