What does the Bible say about making fun of, or telling jokes about, people? Not much unless you translate words from an older form of English to more common words. For example, if you use the King James Version, you won’t find joking or jokes. But as you’ll see, “jesting” was the word used in Ephesians.

Never Make Fun Of, Or Tell Jokes About, People

STM Bible Snack

Ephesians 5:1-4

So, as dearly loved children, you people should [try to] be like God. 2 Live in a loving way, just like Christ loved us and gave Himself up [to die] for us as an offering and fragrant smelling sacrifice to God. 3 But you should not even talk about sexual immorality, or any type of [moral] impurity, or greed. [Note: Possibly “greed” here means “desire for more” of such things]. Such talk is not suitable for saints [i.e., God’s holy people].
4 Nor should obscenity [profanity; indecency], silly chatter or double-meaning [crude; coarse; obscene, or vulgar] jokes be used, because they are not proper either. But instead, [you should express] thanksgiving. (AUV)

Verse 4 in the KJV: Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. [Read Ephesians 5:1-7 (4)].

Telling jokes about people is wicked and does not show love

We should be like God in every way. Even in what we say. Because what we say will determine our status with God [see 3 Awesome Tips: How To Energize With Your Words]. Consider Matthew 12:37:

For you will be considered righteous by the words [you speak] and you will be condemned by the words [you speak].” (AUV)

KJV: For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.

Psalms 35:16

They made fun of me and were cruel to me and ground [gnashed] their teeth at me in anger. (EXB)

 KJV: With hypocritical mockers in feasts, they gnashed upon me with their teeth.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary – With hypocritical mockers in feasts, may also relate prophetically to our Lord’s sufferings. Herod clothed him in a purple robe, put a reed in his hand for a scepter, bowed the knee before him, and set him at naught. Here their hypocritical conduct (pretending one thing while they meant another) was manifest, and possibly this occurred at one of Herod’s feasts.

Jesting

Jesting – The act of making a mocking remark (kidding); a jibe; a taunt; an unfounded tale; or a prank.
King James dictionary – Joking; talking for diversion [amusement; entertainment] or merriment [playful fun].

Ephesians 4:29

Do not say bad things that hurt or insult people. Instead, say only good things that will help people. Your words should help people to become strong when they hear them. (EASY)

KJV: Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

We need to uplift one another rather than make fun of others with our words. Telling jokes may make some people laugh but can hurt others as well. God’s people should never make fun of, or tell jokes about, people! I pray that you have enjoyed and will make the most of this Bible snack. Blessings to you and your loved ones—♥ Tim. ☺

Related studies/lessons/snacks for further spiritual growth:

Is Jesus God? This Is What You Should Know! – an estimated 5-minute read.

Respect God; It is Absolutely Good Advice For Life – an estimated 13-minute read.

Kindness; A Quality All Christians Should Show To Others – an estimated 19-minute read.

Endurance; You Can Go Through Whatever You’re Going Through – an estimated 15-minute read.

Slander; An Act of Hate and Not of Love – an estimated 24-minute read.

See what is the latest on the Sound Truth Ministry website.

I look forward to your feedback via comment at the bottom of the page or by emailing tim@stministry.com. Have a fantabulous day!