21 Bible verses about tolerance
Tolerance is a vital aspect of living in harmony with others and demonstrates love, understanding, and respect for different perspectives and beliefs. The Bible encourages tolerance through teachings about love, compassion, and acceptance. Here are 21 Bible verses that inspire us to practice tolerance in our lives and interactions with others.
1. Romans 15:7
“Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”
- A call to embrace and accept one another, just as Jesus accepts us.
2. Ephesians 4:2-3
“With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”
- Encourages us to be patient and forgiving in our relationships.
3. Colossians 3:13
“Bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.”
- A reminder that tolerance involves forgiveness and understanding.
4. Matthew 7:1-2
“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.”
- Encourages us to refrain from judgment, highlighting the importance of grace.
5. James 1:19
“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.”
- A reminder to listen more than we speak, promoting understanding and patience.
6. 1 Peter 4:8
“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.”
- Illustrates how love can help us overlook faults in others.
7. 1 Thessalonians 5:14
“And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.”
- Encourages patience and support for all, regardless of their situation.
8. Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”
- Highlights that forbearance (patience and tolerance) is a fruit of the Spirit.
9. Proverbs 19:11
“Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.”
- Encourages us to practice wisdom by letting go of minor grievances.
10. Philippians 2:3-4
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.”
- A reminder to prioritize the needs and feelings of others.
11. Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”
- Highlights the value of working toward peace and understanding among people.
12. Luke 6:31
“And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.”
- The Golden Rule emphasizes treating others with kindness and consideration.
13. Romans 12:18
“If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”
- Encourages us to do our part in fostering peaceful relationships.
14. Titus 3:2
“To speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.”
- Encourages respectful and courteous behavior toward everyone.
15. 1 John 3:18
“Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and truth.”
- Love must be demonstrated in our actions, promoting tolerance and acceptance.
16. 2 Timothy 2:24-25
“And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness.”
- Advises us to respond to challenges with kindness rather than confrontation.
17. John 13:34-35
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
- Called to love as Jesus loved, which includes being tolerant and understanding.
18. Proverbs 10:12
“Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.”
- Love is a powerful force that promotes harmony and reduces conflict.
19. Mark 12:31
“You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.”
- Encourages us to show love and tolerance to everyone.
20. Isaiah 1:17
“Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.”
- A call to advocate for those who are marginalized or oppressed, promoting tolerance and understanding.
21. Romans 14:1
“As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions.”
- Encouragement to accept others, even those with differing beliefs or opinions, without conflict.
Conclusion
The Bible teaches us that tolerance is an essential aspect of love and community. These verses inspire us to embrace differences, extend grace, and foster understanding in our relationships. By practicing tolerance, we reflect Christ’s love and create a more harmonious world. Let these scriptures guide you in your interactions with others and help cultivate a spirit of acceptance in your heart!