20 Bible Verses About Influence (With Commentary)

Influence is a powerful theme in the Bible, whether through the impact we have on others or the influence others have on us. Scripture emphasizes the importance of using our influence for good, to lead others toward righteousness and glorify God. These verses teach us that our words, actions, and decisions can affect those around us in profound ways. As followers of Christ, we are called to be a positive influence, reflecting God’s love and truth in everything we do. These 30 Bible verses explore the concept of influence, encouraging us to lead lives that inspire others to follow God.

Bible Verses About Influence

1. Matthew 5:16

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

This verse teaches us to use our influence by being a light to the world. Our actions and good deeds should point others toward God, inspiring them to glorify Him. It reminds us that our influence can bring glory to God when we live in a way that reflects His love and truth. Letting our light shine is an active call to influence others for the Kingdom of God.

2. 1 Timothy 4:12

“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”

This verse encourages believers, especially the young, to be influential through their example. It teaches that regardless of age, we can influence others by how we speak, act, and live out our faith. By demonstrating love, purity, and faithfulness, we become role models for others, showing that godly influence is not limited by age but by the character of our lives.

3. Proverbs 27:17

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

This verse highlights the mutual influence people have on each other. It teaches that healthy relationships can challenge and improve us, sharpening our character and faith. Surrounding ourselves with godly influences allows us to grow, and in turn, we influence others to grow. The verse underscores the importance of positive relationships and mutual accountability in shaping one another.

4. Matthew 5:13

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”

This verse teaches that Christians are meant to be the “salt of the earth,” using their influence to preserve and enhance the world around them. Salt, in ancient times, was used to preserve food and enhance flavor, symbolizing how our influence should preserve goodness and truth. However, the warning about losing our “saltiness” reminds us not to lose our godly influence or effectiveness in impacting the world.

5. Proverbs 22:1

“A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”

This verse emphasizes the lasting influence of a good reputation. It teaches that our character and the way we are perceived by others are more valuable than wealth or material success. A good name influences others positively and earns respect, making it a more lasting legacy than riches. It reminds us to value integrity and righteousness over temporary gains.

6. Romans 14:7

“For none of us lives for ourselves alone, and none of us dies for ourselves alone.”

This verse reminds us that our lives have an impact on others, whether we realize it or not. It teaches that our actions, decisions, and faith influence those around us. We do not live in isolation; our choices ripple out and affect others. As believers, we are called to be mindful of how we live, knowing that we are always influencing others by our example.

7. 1 Corinthians 15:33

“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'”

This verse teaches that the people we surround ourselves with can greatly influence our character. It warns that bad company can lead us away from righteousness, corrupting our good intentions and habits. Conversely, surrounding ourselves with godly influences strengthens our character and helps us remain faithful. It underscores the importance of being discerning about the influences we allow in our lives.

8. Proverbs 13:20

“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”

This verse teaches the importance of the company we keep and how it influences us. Walking with wise people helps us grow in wisdom, while associating with fools can lead to harm. It reminds us that we are shaped by those around us and that choosing godly, wise friends is crucial for our spiritual growth and influence.

9. Philippians 4:9

“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”

This verse teaches the power of leading by example. Paul encourages believers to follow the example he set and to put into practice the teachings they received from him. It reminds us that our actions, teachings, and lifestyle can influence others to live in a way that brings peace and godliness. Leading by example is a powerful way to positively influence those around us.

10. Titus 2:7-8

“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.”

This verse emphasizes the importance of setting a good example in all things. It teaches that our influence should be marked by integrity and soundness in both our actions and our words. By living in a way that cannot be condemned, we silence criticism and influence others through the goodness of our character. Our actions should speak louder than words in influencing others for good.

11. 1 Thessalonians 1:7

“And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia.”

This verse commends the Thessalonians for being a model to other believers. It teaches that our faithfulness and commitment to God can influence others and inspire them to grow in their faith. By being examples of steadfast faith, we have the potential to encourage entire communities to follow God more closely. Our lives, lived for Christ, become powerful testimonies that influence others.

12. Proverbs 16:24

“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”

This verse highlights the positive influence of kind and gracious words. It teaches that our words can have a profound effect on others, bringing healing, encouragement, and comfort. Speaking graciously allows us to influence others for good, offering them sweetness in their souls. Our influence through words should reflect kindness and wisdom, leaving others uplifted and inspired.

13. Galatians 6:9

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

This verse encourages perseverance in doing good, teaching that our actions influence the world around us, even if we don’t see immediate results. It reminds us that our consistent efforts to live righteously and positively influence others will eventually bear fruit. In the long term, our good influence contributes to a harvest of blessings for ourselves and those we touch.

14. Matthew 5:14

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”

This verse teaches that as followers of Christ, we are called to be a visible and positive influence in the world. Our light, representing God’s truth and love, should shine brightly for others to see. As a city on a hill cannot be hidden, so too should our lives reflect God’s goodness, influencing those around us and drawing them toward Christ.

15. Proverbs 4:23

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

This verse teaches that our influence begins with the condition of our hearts. Guarding our hearts from negative influences ensures that everything we do reflects purity and goodness. The heart is the source of our actions, words, and thoughts, and by protecting it, we can positively influence others from a place of love and integrity. Our hearts are central to the impact we make on the world.

16. Romans 12:2

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

This verse teaches that our influence should come from a transformed mind, not from conforming to worldly patterns. By renewing our minds in God’s truth, we influence others through godly wisdom and discernment. When we live according to God’s will, we become a positive example, showing others what it looks like to follow God in a world filled with competing influences.

17. Hebrews 10:24

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”

This verse encourages us to use our influence to inspire others toward love and good works. It teaches that we have a responsibility to encourage and motivate those around us to live out their faith through action. Our influence can help others grow in love and service, and we are called to be intentional about how we inspire others to do good.

18. Colossians 4:6

“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”

This verse teaches the importance of using our words to positively influence others. Our conversations should be gracious and thoughtful, allowing us to speak truth in a way that uplifts and encourages. “Seasoned with salt” means our words should add value, wisdom, and flavor to the lives of others. How we communicate influences the way people perceive God’s truth through us.

19. 1 Peter 3:15

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

This verse teaches that our influence should come from a heart that honors Christ, with gentleness and respect toward others. It reminds us that our influence extends through how we share our faith. Being prepared to give an answer for our hope means living in a way that draws others to ask about our faith, influencing them by our example of gentleness and respect.

20. 2 Timothy 2:24-25

“And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth.”

This verse teaches that our influence should be marked by kindness, patience, and gentleness. It reminds us that even when instructing or correcting others, we must do so with the hope of leading them toward God’s truth. Our influence is most effective when it is grounded in love and humility, allowing others to see Christ in our actions and words.

These Bible verses highlight the power of influence and how, as followers of Christ, we are called to positively impact those around us. Whether through our words, actions, or relationships, we have the ability to reflect God’s love, truth, and grace in the world. By living with integrity and intentionality, we can use our influence to lead others closer to Christ and inspire them to live lives of faith and righteousness.

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