The Bible does not contain the modern terms “child abuse” or “molestation” in any concordance. These are contemporary labels applied to ancient evils, but the Bible’s teachings unequivocally condemn harming children.
The Bible emphasizes the intrinsic value of every individual, commands us to protect the vulnerable, and issues severe warnings against those who harm children.
Every Child Bears God’s Image:
This position rests on a core doctrine: every human being is made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). According to the Imago Dei concept, children are sacred beings reflecting their Creator, and are not properties of God, but are instead created in the image of God. Child abuse and abuse are acts of profound sacrilege that strike at the core of what it means to be human. Abusing or violating children defaces the very image of God.
A number of chapters in the Bible emphasize the importance of children. In Psalm 127:3, they are described as a “reward” from the Lord and a “honor.” “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” This is not just poetic language, but a theological declaration that children are God’s gifts to us.
Children were often marginalized in a culture where Jesus himself demonstrated extraordinary regard for them. When his disciples tried to turn them away, he rebuked them: “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14). “Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for they are the recipients of the kingdom of heaven.” In addition to simply tolerating children, he presented them as a model of faith and humility necessary for entry into God’s kingdom. As a result of this radical elevation of children’s spiritual status, how we view and treat them today should be changed.
God’s Clear Command to Protect the Vulnerable:
The scriptures repeatedly command believers to defend those who cannot defend themselves. Two key Hebrew concepts were used in the Old Testament prophets: mishpat (justice that punishes wrongdoers and restores victims) and tzedakah (righteousness that creates a society that is equitable and able to benefit the most vulnerable). Among those in need of special protection are children, orphans, and the “fatherless.”
In Isaiah 1:17 commands, “Learn to do right; seek justice.” Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless.” “Learn to do right; seek justice.” Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” Psalm 82:3 urges believers to “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.” “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.” Proverbs 31:8-9 instructs God’s people to “Speak up for those who cannot defend for themselves” and “defend the rights of the weak and needy.” “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” These aren’t suggestions, they’re fundamental moral imperatives woven into biblical ethics.
The Severe Warnings in Scripture:
The Bible’s warnings against causing harm to children rank among the most severe in all Scripture. In Matthew 18:6, Jesus delivers a shocking statement: “If anyone causes one of these little ones, those who believe in me, to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” “If anyone causes one of these little ones, those who believe in me, to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” This graphic imagery, jarring even to modern readers, illustrates the absolute gravity with which God views harming a child’s body, mind, or faith. Jesus uses hyperbole to make an unmistakable point: there is no excuse, no justification for victimizing children.
Sexual Exploitation is Explicitly Condemned:
As a result of the prohibitions against sexual immorality in the Bible, any form of sexual abuse or molestation is strongly condemned. In order to protect individuals, including children, from exploitation, the Law of Moses contains strict prohibitions against incest and other forms of sexual violation, especially in Leviticus 18 and 20.
This story of Tamar being raped by her half-brother Amnon (2 Samuel 13) is not included to condone the behavior, but rather to illustrate the devastating consequences it has. Scripture does not shy away from the ugly reality of abuse, it exposes it. The narrative depicts Amnon’s act as wicked and destructive, shattering Tamar’s life and tearing the royal family apart.
Discipline vs. Abuse: A Critical Distinction:
It seems misinterpreted by some to use biblical passages regarding parental discipline to justify physical abuse. In verses like Proverbs 13:24, the Hebrew word for “discipline” (musar) primarily refers to teaching, guidance, and correction, not retaliation. “Those who spare the rod hate their children, but those who love their children discipline them.” This rod was a shepherd’s tool used for protecting and guiding sheep, not beating them.
In the New Testament, discipline is explicitly balanced with commands against harsh parenting. Ephesians 6:4 instructs: “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”
Colossians 3:21 is even more direct: “Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.” “Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.” Any form of discipline that causes physical injury, emotional bitterness, or lasting fear directly violates these commands.
Our collective responsibility:
According to the Bible, the community of faith is responsible for the protection of children, not just the parents.
There must be a sanctuary in the church, a place of absolute safety for the vulnerable.
As part of this responsibility, we are responsible for creating a safe environment through appropriate policies and procedures, supporting survivors with compassion and resources, and holding abusers accountable.
Accountability includes reporting suspected abuse to the civil authorities. Romans 13:1 commands believers to “be subject to the governing authorities.” “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God,” meaning Christians have both a moral and civic duty to report abuse to proper authorities. Hiding or covering up such crimes is a profound moral failure and obstruction of justice.
The Unmistakable Biblical Mandate:
According to Scripture, child abuse and molestation are grave sins that violate God’s image, defy His demands for justice, and betray the sacred trust of caring for the most vulnerable.
Even though ancient texts do not use modern terminology, the Bible’s principles remain unwavering: children are God’s precious gifts deserving of love, care, and protection.
The overarching biblical themes of justice, mercy, and care for the vulnerable create an unmistakable mandate to safeguard children and act decisively against those who would harm them. We, as people of faith, are responsible for ensuring the protection, value, and flourishing of the most vulnerable among us.
Until Next time: Courage
