The Bible never gives an indexed list of the “worst” sins. Scripture again and again warns against the behaviors that damage our character, our relationship with God, and others. The reminders are woven throughout both Testaments. Over the centuries, readers have identified the sins that the Bible most forcefully warns against, and that is the basis for this list.
Idolatry
Idolatry, or the worship of other gods, is any other thing you make supreme in your heart to which you direct your worship instead of God. Idolatry is mentioned again and again in the Bible for good reason, it diverts our focus from God. Galatians lists idolatry with the grievous sins that can hinder one from inheriting the Kingdom of God.
Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit (Unforgivable sin)
Jesus speaks very seriously about blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. To reject God entirely is not just a sin but an elimination of the opportunity for forgiveness. It’s an act that is irreparable with an apology. It’s a sin like no other, Scripture is clear, it’s in a category all by itself.
Unforgiveness / Refusing to forgive others
Forgiveness is one of the best ways to demonstrate the good things in your heart. According to Jesus our inability to forgive others might result in God finding it difficult to forgive us. It’s not just about them, it’s also about us.
Theft
The Bible is very clear about stealing. The 10 Commandments instruct not to covet what belongs to others. The theme is repeated in multiple other verses. Theft can be many things. It can be physical taking of objects, but also deceit, deception and dishonest profit. Theft erodes trust and hurts all parties.
Murder
This one is not negotiable in the Bible. The taking of an innocent life is viewed as one of the worst transgressions because life itself is believed to be sacred. It is not just a rule being broken. It is irreversible.
Jesus also warns that our feelings of anger and hatred don’t remain confined within us. If we allow them to remain unchecked, they fester in our hearts and lead to deep damage long before action occurs.
Coveting / Greed
Exodus 20: 17 says, “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house, you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor’s.” Greed does not stay just in the heart; it is at the root of stealing and also of jealousy and strife. It is an indication that a person is worldly rather than godly.
Lying
Lying, and telling falsehood about others, is something that the Bible speaks against over and over. It is included in the Ten Commandments, and reappears in the New Testament. Lies can destroy trust, damage relationships and leave long-term scars. A truthful heart wishes to live with integrity before God.
Envy / Jealousy
Envy and jealousy are harmful because they lead to anger and bitterness. “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.” (Proverbs 14: 30) The New Testament warns that jealousy and coveting lead to more sin and can harm ourselves and others.
Drunkenness
The Bible tells us not to get drunk. When we drink to that point, we make bad choices. This puts us and other people in danger. In the New Testament, God calls us to self-control. We are to be moderate in all things and remember who is in charge.
Sorcery / Occult practices
Magic, witchcraft and spirit consultation are explicitly forbidden in Scripture. These practices drag our hearts away from God and transfer trust to that which holds no power. In Deuteronomy 18: 10‑12 we read that such things are an abomination, and will result in serious consequences.
Like our content? Be sure to follow us.
