Teaching our children what the Bible says about how to treat others is a crucial part of Christian parenting. It is important that we model and instill biblical principles that show our children the way God commands us to treat each other. And while we will still mess up along the way, God’s grace is sufficient for the times we find ourselves falling short of His Word.

One of the most amazing things about raising and influencing our children is that we have the honor of pointing them straight to Jesus. I am grateful for the gift of the Holy Spirit inside of us showing us how to be children of light and convicting us when we miss the mark. This gift has made raising our children easier as we have confidence in His leading.

What Does the Bible Say About How to Treat Others?

Let’s take a look at the Word of God to see what truths we can discover.

Love in Deed and Truth

Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth. 1 John 3:18 (NIV)

This verse teaches us that we should be training our children to understand that love is not just a word; love is an action. Teaching our children about the act of unconditional love that Jesus showed on Calvary helps them understand who He is in their lives. We have found this to have a profound impact raising our children into adulthood. Our adult daughter recently told us that living with this core value in our home helped her to be sure of her faith. 

Be Kind, Compassionate, and Forgiving

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 (NIV) 

This verse is a wonderful reminder that we are to treat others the same way that Jesus treats us. He is always kind and compassionate toward us, even in our sin. His sacrifice on the cross sealed the forgiveness of our sin. Jesus modeled kindness, compassion, and forgiveness for all mankind to follow. And as His children, we should commit to doing the same.

Be Humble and Gentle

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2 (NIV)

Jesus is the epitome of humility. He showed humility in so many circumstances where the average person would struggle. From being accused of crimes He did not commit to being accused of blasphemy. Jesus remained humble and gentle, giving us the blueprint for how we should treat others.

Build One Another Up

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV)

As children of God it is important that we build up our brothers and sisters through the way we speak to them and treat them. When we speak life-giving words to those around us it gives God the ability to perform His Word in and around us. And when we treat others kindly it shows them the love of Christ, building them up when they are in need of love and encouragement.

Treat Others The Way You Want to Be Treated

Do to others as you would have them do to you. Luke 6:31 (NIV)

When in doubt, teach your children to never forget that God wants them to treat others the way they want to be treated. This is especially helpful when children are young as they are more self-centered as they learn the way the world around them works. By teaching this early on, it helps kids develop the habit of weighing their actions toward others by this truth.

While there are many verses and stories in the Bible that teach us how to treat others, the verses above have been a blessing to our family. God’s Word is a treasure that contains all the answers we seek (and more). When you are dealing with issues in parenting your children, always take time to pull out your Bible and see what God has to say about the topic; you won’t be disappointed. Not only that, but He will give you the wisdom and grace you need to model the truth of His Word in love.