Overview
The Bible addresses toleration across 14 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in 1 Corinthians, Mark and Micah. Closely related themes include Charitableness, Commandments, Conscience and Expediency. Figures whose stories touch this theme include Jesus.
Key Bible verses about toleration
Old Testament
Micah
New Testament
Mark
And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us.
But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me.
For he that is not against us is on our part.
Luke
Acts
These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
1 Corinthians
But if any man say unto you, This is offered in sacrifice unto idols, eat not for his sake that shewed it, and for conscience sake: for the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof:
Conscience I say, not thine own, but of the other: for why is my liberty judged of another man's conscience?
For if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for which I give thanks? grace: or, thanksgiving
Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: Gentiles: Gr. Greeks
People in the Bible and toleration
Biblical figures whose stories intersect with this theme.
In the Bible dictionary
Studying toleration for yourself
- Begin with Micah 4:4, then read the passages below in canonical order.
- Compare how 1 Corinthians, Mark and Micah each treat the theme.
- Consider the lives of Jesus and how their stories intersect with it.
- Widen the study to related themes: Charitableness, Commandments, Conscience and Expediency.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Bible say about toleration?
The Bible addresses toleration across 14 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in 1 Corinthians, Mark and Micah. Closely related themes include Charitableness, Commandments, Conscience and Expediency. Figures whose stories touch this theme include Jesus.
How many Bible verses are about toleration?
The Bible references toleration in 14 verses (King James Version).
Where does the Bible first mention toleration?
In canonical order, the first of these passages is Micah 4:4: “But they shall sit every man under his vine and under his fig tree; and none shall make them afraid: for the mouth of the LORD of hosts hath spoken it.”
Which people in the Bible are associated with toleration?
Jesus.
Preach & teach
Outline a sermon or build a study series on toleration.
Preach a series on Toleration →