Is it ok to call people name?

The Bible has much to say about the words we speak, especially when it comes to how we address or speak about others. Calling people names in a harmful or derogatory way goes against biblical teaching about how we should treat one another with respect, kindness, and love.

The Power of Words

The Bible emphasizes that our words carry power. They can either build people up or tear them down. Jesus Himself taught that the words we speak are a reflection of what is in our hearts.

Matthew 12:36-37 (KJV) says:
"But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned."

This verse highlights that careless words, including calling people names or insulting them, will be judged by God. Our words are not insignificant; they reveal our character and heart.

Proverbs 18:21 (KJV) further reminds us:
"Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."

The words we speak can bring either life or death to relationships, reputations, and people’s spirits. When we call people hurtful names, we are speaking words that tear down rather than build up.

Jesus' Teaching on How We Should Speak to Others

Jesus teaches us to love others as we love ourselves (Matthew 22:39), and part of loving others includes speaking to them in a way that is respectful and edifying. The Bible warns us about the dangers of using our words to insult or harm others.

In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus gave a strong warning against name-calling:

Matthew 5:22 (KJV) says:
"But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire."

In this passage, Jesus condemns the use of insults like "Raca" (a term of contempt meaning "empty-headed" or "fool"). He teaches that using insults or derogatory language is not a minor issue; it reveals an underlying heart problem of anger or hatred, and such behavior is serious in God's eyes.

Building Up Instead of Tearing Down

The Bible encourages us to use our words to encourage and uplift others, not to insult or demean them. Paul instructs believers to be intentional about speaking words that are helpful, encouraging, and gracious.

Ephesians 4:29 (KJV) says:
"Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers."

This verse teaches that our words should be used for edification — to build others up, not to tear them down. Corrupt communication, including name-calling, is not only harmful but goes against God's desire for how we should interact with others.

The Heart Behind Name-Calling

Name-calling often stems from anger, frustration, or bitterness. The Bible calls us to address the root of these emotions rather than allowing them to manifest in harmful speech. In Colossians, Paul encourages us to rid ourselves of anger and slander:

Colossians 3:8 (KJV) says:
"But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth."

Instead of allowing anger and frustration to control our speech, we should strive to speak with kindness, compassion, and patience. This reflects the character of Christ.

Proverbs 15:1 (KJV) also gives this advice:
"A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger."

Responding with gentleness, rather than with harsh or insulting words, helps to diffuse conflict and reflect God's love.

Jesus as Our Example

Jesus set the ultimate example of how we should speak to others, even those who oppose or mistreat us. When He was insulted and mocked during His crucifixion, Jesus did not respond with insults in return.

1 Peter 2:23 (KJV) says:
"Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously."

Jesus responded with grace, patience, and love, even in the face of mistreatment. As His followers, we are called to follow His example by speaking words that reflect His character, even in difficult situations.

Conclusion: Is It OK to Call People Names?

From a biblical perspective, the answer is no, it is not right to call people names in a derogatory or harmful way. The Bible calls us to speak words that build others up, not tear them down. Our speech should be filled with grace, love, and encouragement, reflecting the heart of Christ.

Instead of name-calling, we should practice self-control and use our words to bless others, knowing that we will give an account for every word we speak.

Closing Prayer:

Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, we ask You to help us guard our tongues and speak words that are pleasing to You. Let our speech reflect Your love, and may our words bring healing and encouragement to those around us. As Your Word says, "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying." (Ephesians 4:29). Help us to speak with grace and kindness in all situations. We ask this in the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.

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