Bribes: Understanding the Biblical Perspective on Dishonest Influence and Integrity


A bribe is something secretly offered to manipulate or persuade another person to act dishonestly in one’s favour. While incentives and gifts can encourage good behaviour, bribes pervert justice and undermine truth (Prov 17:8, 23). God neither accepts nor offers bribes, for He is just and impartial (2 Chr 19:7; Prov 21:27).

The Moral and Social Consequences of Bribery

Bribery distorts fairness and corrupts moral judgment. Business dealings must be transparent, just, and free from hidden agendas, blackmail, or private arrangements. Righteous individuals reject bribes, recognizing that such actions ultimately destroy trust and societal integrity (Isa 33:15; Ex 23:2, 8; Prov 29:4; Eccl 7:7).

Dishonesty never pays in the long-term

In the New Testament, soldiers were bribed to lie about the resurrection of Jesus, fabricating a story to cover up the empty tomb (Mt 28:11–15). This act of deception highlights how bribes are used to suppress truth for personal or political gain.

Other biblical examples include Delilah’s betrayal of Samson for money (Jdg 16:5), the corruption of Samuel’s sons in their judicial role (1 Sam 8:3), Haman’s plot to annihilate the Jews funded by royal treasury (Est 3:9), and Governor Felix who kept Paul imprisoned, hoping for a bribe (Acts 24:26).

Bribery erodes the foundation of justice. When decisions are influenced by secret payments, truth becomes secondary to personal gain. This not only harms individuals but weakens entire communities. Scripture consistently warns that those who accept bribes blind their discernment and pervert the course of justice (Ex 23:8; Deut 16:19).

God’s Standard of Impartial Justice

Unlike human systems vulnerable to corruption, God shows no partiality. He requires His people to uphold righteousness and reject any form of favouritism or covert influence. Leaders, judges, and citizens alike are called to act with integrity, knowing that God sees all things and will hold the unjust accountable.

Rewards vs. Bribes: A Critical Distinction

Not all gifts or rewards are bribes. A gift given freely, without expectation of return, can express gratitude or encouragement. Rewards for good work motivate ethical behaviour. The key difference lies in intent: bribes seek to manipulate, while true rewards affirm value and effort.

Reflection and Application:

  • Examine your own actions—have you ever offered or accepted a favour in exchange for preferential treatment?
  • Consider how bribery, even in small forms, can damage trust in relationships and institutions.
  • Reflect on God’s impartial nature and how it calls us to live with transparency and honesty.
  • Commit to making decisions based on justice, not personal gain, especially in positions of influence.


See also: fairness, favoritism, honesty, integrity, manipulation, reward.