30+ Bible Verses About Fake Friends & Choosing two-faced friends

In our journey through life, we cross paths with a myriad of individuals.

Some we’ll call friends, and others will earn the title of family.

But amidst these connections, not all are genuine. False friends, insincere family members, and two-faced acquaintances lurk in the shadows.

Drawing from ancient wisdom, we turn to the Bible for guidance on navigating these complex relationships.

This article explores biblical insights on fake friends and deceitful companions.

Let’s embark on this journey of discernment, forgiveness, and wisdom. Let’s unmask the false.

I have compiled bible verses about fake friends to guide you.

Recommended for you

Table of Contents

Bible verses about fake friends

Psalm 41:9

Even my close friend,someone I trusted, one who shared my bread,has turned^[a] against me.

Picture this: you have a confidant, someone who gets you. They laugh at your jokes, stand by you in good times and bad, and share your secrets. You trust them like family. Then, one day, they betray you. It stings, and you’re left questioning everything.

Psalm 41:9 speaks to this pain: “Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.” The verse doesn’t hold back; it captures the raw emotion of betrayal by a friend.

Why does the Bible discuss this? Because betrayal is part of life. We all face it, in various degrees. The Bible offers us wisdom on navigating these emotional storms.

Take the New Testament story of Judas Iscariot. A disciple and friend, he betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. Jesus knew of the betrayal, yet shared bread with him – a chilling echo of Psalm 41:9.

Judas’ story isn’t just history; it’s a warning. Betrayal can come from those closest to us. Picture a coworker you trust, who steals your ideas and claims them as their own. It’s a modern example of sharing your bread and being betrayed.

So, how do we handle this? The Bible guides us. Proverbs 19:5 says, “A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will not go free.” Justice will prevail – maybe not quickly, or as we expect, but it will come.

Forgiveness is crucial. Holding onto anger only hurts us. Matthew 10:36 warns of betrayal, but Jesus tells his disciples to shake the dust off their feet against those who reject them. It’s a metaphor for leaving emotional baggage behind.

In our lives, forgiveness means acknowledging pain, learning from it, and letting go. It doesn’t mean forgetting or allowing repeats. It means freeing ourselves from resentment’s chains.

In conclusion, the Bible recognizes the pain of betrayal, advises caution, and teaches us to handle it with grace.

It reminds us that our self-worth isn’t determined by others’ actions, and that even in betrayal, we can uphold integrity, find strength, and cultivate forgiveness.

In a world where fake friendships can be hard to spot, these lessons are worth remembering.

John 13:18

“I am not referring to all of you; I know those I have chosen. But this is to fulfill this passage of Scripture: ‘He who shared my bread has turned against me.

Life is a winding road filled with people. Some are genuine, others, not so much. Choosing friends is a tricky business. The Bible is a guiding light here. It shines a spotlight on Jesus and Judas’ tale in John 13:18.

Here’s the verse: “I do not speak of all of you. I know the ones I have chosen. But it is that the Scripture may be fulfilled, ‘He who eats My bread has lifted up his heel against Me.'” Simple words, but with a profound message.

Jesus knew Judas would betray him. But He chose him anyway. Why? It’s all about grace. He knew what lay in Judas’ heart.

Yet, He showered him with love. That’s how Jesus rolls. Even in the face of betrayal, He chose compassion.

Let’s dig deeper into this. Look at King David and his son, Absalom. Absalom craved power. He turned against his father. He wanted the throne.

David’s reaction? Grace. Just like Jesus, David chose love. Absalom’s betrayal hurt him deeply. Yet, love conquered all.

Fast forward to today. Imagine a friend who stabs you in the back. They spread rumors about you. It’s a modern-day Absalom. The Bible’s message rings clear. Answer betrayal with grace.

But what about the disciples? They were confused, scared. Still, they remained loyal to Jesus. This is friendship. True friends stick together. They weather the storm. Loyalty is their compass.

Judas. He’s the archetype of a fake friend. His loyalty was a mask. Behind it? Betrayal. Luke 22:47-48 tells it all. He marked Jesus for arrest with a kiss. A sign of love used for deceit. That’s a classic fake friend move.

So, what’s my takeaway from all of this? True friends matter. They are loyal. They stand by us. In good times and bad. They show love and grace, like Jesus did.

In a nutshell, the Bible teaches us about friendship. Jesus, Judas, and Absalom are the teachers. Their stories are lessons. They teach us about grace, loyalty, and deceit.

They show us how to spot a fake friend and guide us in choosing true ones. Life is a winding road, indeed. But with these lessons, we can navigate it just a bit better.

Psalm 55:12-14

If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were rising against me, I could hide. ¹³But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend, ¹⁴with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship at the house of God, as we walked about among the worshipers.

Betrayal by a friend – it stings, doesn’t it? Take solace. You’re not alone. The Bible, specifically Psalm 55:12-14, talks about this. It recounts David’s deep pain when a dear friend turned on him.

The verses resonate, don’t they? They depict a trust-filled friendship, tarnished by betrayal.

A similar experience might echo in your life. A childhood friend, perhaps, who started ignoring you. This friend, now part of a new social group, barely acknowledges you. It’s a deep wound, isn’t it?

David’s sorrow in Psalm 55 reflects our feelings in such situations. The pain of dealing with fake friends is real. But there’s a silver lining here. The verses also guide us on handling such hurt.

Remember the story of Saul and David? David, once a confidant to Saul, had to flee. Jealous of David’s popularity, Saul turned against him. This sudden shift was shocking. Yet, David handled it with grace.

Proverbs 25:19 lends perspective. “Trust in a treacherous person in times of trouble is like a rotten tooth or a foot out of joint.” It’s a sharp reminder.

Placing trust in a deceitful friend leads to disappointment. It was true for David. It’s true for us too.

But there’s hope. We can overcome the hurt of fake friends, just like David did. Remember, trust is a two-way street. A vital part of any relationship. Broken trust is hard to repair. But not impossible.

Jeremiah 9:4 offers sobering advice. “Beware of your friends; do not trust anyone in your clan. Every one of them is a deceiver, every friend a slanderer.” It’s a warning bell. Choose friends wisely. Avoid the trap of fake love.

How do we rebuild trust then? The key lies in forgiveness. In understanding. In time. We must learn from our past, but not let it make us cynical. Trust can be rebuilt. It needs effort, though. From both sides.

David’s experiences teach us valuable lessons. About trust. About betrayal and resilience. Psalm 55:12-14 carries a message of hope. Strength for those dealing with a sour friendship.

So, if you’re wrestling with a two-faced friend’s hurt, remember this. You’re not alone. Like David, you too have the strength to overcome.

Job 19:19

All my intimate friends detest me; those I love have turned against me.

In the hustle and bustle of life, moments of loneliness can strike. We feel deserted, even by those we counted as friends. Take a look at Job 19:19.

It reads, “All my close friends detest me; those I love have turned against me.” It’s a raw verse, touching on betrayal and false love.

So, let’s talk about Job. He was a man of deep faith. Yet, he faced unspeakable trials. He lost it all – wealth, family, health. His friends, instead of offering comfort, turned their backs.

They blamed him, claiming his hardship was a divine punishment. Job’s story is a stark portrait of loneliness. It’s a feeling we know too well when friends let us down.

Job’s plight isn’t just an old story. It mirrors our experiences with fake friends. It’s similar to losing a job.

Suddenly, the friends you shared meals and laughter with are gone. They vanish. You’re left dealing with betrayal and abandonment.

Job’s tale isn’t all doom and gloom. It teaches us about the value of true friendship in hard times. Real friends don’t disappear when trouble hits. They stay, offering support and comfort.

Proverbs 14:20 highlights this. It says, “The poor are shunned even by their neighbors, but the rich have many friends.” It’s a sharp reminder of the fickleness of fair-weather friends.

Job clung to his faith amidst betrayal. Micah 7:5 is a useful guide here. It warns, “Do not trust a neighbor; put no confidence in a friend.” It’s a call to guard our hearts. To be careful who we trust.

Job’s experiences teach us about resilience. Despite false accusations, Job remained hopeful. He trusted in God, not succumbing to despair. This resilience is our shield against two-faced friends. It gives us strength to rise above the hurt.

Job’s story also teaches us about loyalty and friendship. True friends don’t abandon ship when storms hit. They stay, riding it out with you. They’re there for the highs and lows. They value your friendship, not what they can gain from it.

If you ever feel like Job, remember, you’re not alone. I’ve been there, we all have. And like Job, we can overcome.

We can choose real friends, hold onto our faith in hard times, and learn resilience in the face of betrayal. After all, trials often reveal our true friends.

Jeremiah 20:10

I hear many whispering, “Terror on every side! Denounce him! Let’s denounce him!” All my friends are waiting for me to slip, saying, “Perhaps he will be deceived; then we will prevail over him and take our revenge on him.”

Jeremiah 20:10 tells a tale of fear and betrayal. I’ve felt that sting, and maybe you have too. That sinking feeling when you learn a friend isn’t genuine.

They gossip and deceive, waiting for your downfall. Betrayal is a sneaky beast, eating away at your trust and casting doubt on relationships.

Prophet Jeremiah faced this situation. Friends eagerly awaited his misstep. Betrayal cut deep. But how did this fear impact him? Did it affect his relationships and choices?

Imagine walking a tightrope, always looking over your shoulder, unable to trust those around you. It’s a crippling fear, making you doubt every decision and relationship.

However, Jeremiah didn’t crumble. His faith in God was his rock, his light in the storm. Psalm 31:13 echoes this sentiment. David speaks of similar fears, surrounded by terror and slander. Like Jeremiah, he trusted in God.

Here’s the lesson for us: faith can shield us from the fear of fake friends and protect us from two-faced companions.

Consider Joseph, sold by his brothers out of jealousy. Betrayed by family and cast aside, yet he held onto his faith. God preserved and elevated him to a place of honor.

Joseph’s story shows how faith can turn painful betrayals into redemption and hope.

Now, let’s look at a real-life example. Imagine sharing an innovative idea with a business partner, only for them to steal it.

The betrayal is devastating. It’s not just the stolen idea; it’s the broken trust and the realization your friend wore a mask.

Jeremiah’s and Joseph’s experiences teach us that we can navigate betrayal. They show us we can stand tall in the face of two-faced friends, holding onto our faith and integrity.

In Luke 21:16, Jesus forewarns his disciples about betrayal, even from family. But He also assures them of His presence and wisdom.

Jeremiah’s fear didn’t define him. Joseph’s betrayal didn’t break him. Their faith anchored them. They chose courage over fear and faith over despair. We can do the same.

We can learn to discern true from false and guard our hearts and minds, trusting in God who never fails. In doing so, we turn our stories of betrayal into testimonies of resilience, faith, and hope.

Courage isn’t the absence of fear. It’s deciding something else matters more. Let’s choose faith over fear, integrity over convenience, and courage over betrayal.

After all, we are more than our betrayals. We are resilient, strong, and with faith as our shield, we can face any storm head-on.

Matthew 26:23

Jesus replied, “The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me.

Life’s journey can lead us to some unexpected places. Among them? The discovery of false friends. The Bible, our guidebook for life, doesn’t gloss over this tough reality. Case in point: Matthew 26:23.

Here, Jesus discloses an unsettling truth. “The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me.” His words echo with a subtle confrontation of the betrayal soon to come.

This verse pushes us to value honesty in our friendships. Like Jesus, we should face the truth head-on, even when it’s uncomfortable.

In the face of betrayal, emotions run high. It’s a bitter pill to swallow, especially when it comes from a close friend.

Peter, a devoted disciple, denied Jesus three times. It was a painful blow. His denial mirrors the heartache we feel when friends in our lives prove false.

But Jesus, in his infinite wisdom, continued to love and serve. Even as he knew of Judas’ impending betrayal. What a testament to his unyielding love! It teaches us an invaluable lesson.

Our kindness should not waver based on others’ actions. I’ve seen this principle play out in our everyday lives, and it’s astounding.

Take, for example, a friend who refuses to acknowledge you in certain social situations. It hurts, doesn’t it?

But remember Jesus’ actions. Maintain your integrity. Continue to be kind. It’s a challenging task, but, in my opinion, it’s worth the effort.

Finally, let’s delve into the concept of loyalty. Jesus knew Judas would betray him. Yet, he remained a friend and teacher. He subtly hinted at the betrayal, without public exposure.

Loyalty may look different in our lives, but it’s just as crucial. Despite the actions of false friends, we can uphold our values. Honesty, kindness, and loyalty should define us.

In a nutshell, the Bible offers wisdom for dealing with false friendships. Feeling hurt is okay. But let’s remember to hold onto our integrity and kindness. Our actions, not the actions of those who betray us, define us.

Let’s strive to be the embodiment of faithfulness, even when faced with two-faced friendships and fake love.

Bible verses about fake love

Micah 7:5

Do not trust a neighbor; put no confidence in a friend. Even with the woman who lies in your embrace guard the words of your lips.

Friendship can be a rough sea. Micah 7:5 gives us a compass. It warns us: choose your confidants wisely. Betrayal, it implies, can come from the closest quarters.

Imagine sharing a secret. It’s safe with your friend, right? Wrong. Suddenly, it’s out there. Betrayal – it stings, doesn’t it?

Samson felt it too. His love, Delilah, turned out to be his downfall. She tricked him, spilling his secret. His enemies won. It was a bitter lesson about trust.

Jeremiah 9:4 echoes this sentiment. It warns us of the smiling backstabber, the friendly deceiver. We’ve all met them. They’re all sweetness and light, until you turn your back. It’s a hard lesson.

But crucial. It teaches us discernment in friendship.

Betrayal is a wound that lingers. Proverbs 26:24-25 paints a vivid image. It speaks of the smiling enemy, the friendly traitor.

We’ve all had that friend. They act concerned, but it’s a facade. I’ve been there. They used my struggles to mock me. It was a tough pill to swallow. But it reminded me to keep faith, even when trust shatters.

Micah’s warning might sound grim. But it also offers hope. It tells us to be cautious. To choose our friends wisely. To protect our hearts against harm.

It reminds us that wisdom is our shield against fake friends. And faith is our anchor when trust is broken.

So, as we sail through the sea of friendship, let’s remember these verses. Let them be our guide. Let them help us distinguish between real affection and fake love.

And when we face betrayal, let’s hold onto our faith. True friendship is worth waiting for.

Remember, it’s not just about dodging fake friends. It’s also about cherishing real ones. It’s about those who stand by us when the storm hits. Those who love us unconditionally. Those who truly earn our trust.

Next time you’re unsure about a friend, remember Micah. Remember to be cautious. Remember you can discern true friends. And remember, even when betrayed, your faith will stand.

Because, I’m sure, true friendship is one of life’s most beautiful gifts.

Psalm 55:20-22

My companion attacks his friends; he violates his covenant. ²¹His talk is smooth as butter, yet war is in his heart; his words are more soothing than oil, yet they are drawn swords. ²²Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.

The sting of betrayal cuts deep. It’s a sucker punch to the gut, landing from the least expected quarter – a trusted friend. Psalm 55:20-22 paints this picture. A close friend breaks a sacred bond, leaving our emotions in tatters.

This friend’s words were as smooth as butter, promising peace. But war was in his heart. His soothing words hid a drawn sword (Psalm 55:21).

A familiar story, isn’t it? We’ve all felt the betrayal of a chameleon friend. I recall one. Kind and supportive in private, a backstabber in public. She broke promises and trust, leaving me reeling.

But what’s the antidote to this pain? The psalmist points the way. “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you” (Psalm 55:22).

In the face of treachery, lean on the Lord. He will never fail us. When all else gives way, He remains our steady rock.

Take a leaf from King David’s life. His trusted advisor, Ahithophel, turned traitor. David didn’t wallow in despair. He turned to God in prayer, seeking solace (2 Samuel 15:31).

David’s actions are a roadmap for us. Betrayed? Turn to God.

In these moments, prayer and faith are our anchors. They tether us to the One who never fails. But we also need to learn. Proverbs 27:6 tells us, “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”

True friends might hurt us with the truth. Fake friends will deceive us with sweet lies. It’s a call to honesty and integrity in our friendships.

Luke 6:45 amplifies this. “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart…” Actions reveal the heart. True friends show their loyalty in deeds, not just in words.

So, dealing with fake friends is twofold. First, discern the actions of others. Second, cultivate honesty, integrity, and faith in ourselves.

Trust in God, the Faithful One. Remember, even amidst betrayal, we find comfort and strength in Him. The most important covenant is the one we have with God. He never fails.

Job 19:13

“He has alienated my family from me; my acquaintances are completely estranged from me.

We all cherish our friends, don’t we? They’re our support, our confidants, and our go-to people in times of need. But sometimes, the ones we trust reveal a hidden side, showing their fake or two-faced nature. What do we do then?

The Bible addresses this tough question. Job 19:13, for instance, paints a vivid picture of betrayal. Job, a man who’s lost everything, laments that his friends have abandoned him in his darkest hour. He feels utterly alone.

It’s an experience we can all relate to. Just look at Psalm 38:11, where David speaks of friends and loved ones standing aloof during his time of distress. But the Bible doesn’t just portray these moments; it offers wisdom on how to cope.

Proverbs 18:24 tells us that while unreliable friends can bring ruin, there’s a friend who’s always there: God. So, when friendships falter, we can find comfort in His unwavering love.

Take Job’s wife as an example. Instead of supporting him, she tells him to “curse God and die.” Harsh, right? Yet, Job responds with grace and resilience, teaching us to do the same.

I’ve had my share of fake friends too. One of them criticized me when I needed support the most. It hurt, but it taught me to choose my friends carefully.

So, how do we handle false friends? How do we heal from the pain they cause? The Bible offers hope. Psalm 147:3 says, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

When dealing with fake love and two-faced friends, we can find solace in God. He never abandons us and sticks closer than any friend ever could. Trust me, I’ve experienced it myself.

In the end, the story of Job teaches us valuable lessons. We learn the importance of real friendships and the healing power of God’s love. Through His guidance, we can navigate the challenges that fake friends bring and find peace in His presence.

Luke 22:47-48

Proverbs 26:23

Proverbs 25:9

1 Timothy 5:13

Leviticus 19:16

2 Samuel 15:12

Recommended for you

Bible verses for When friends let you down

16. Proverbs 20:19

17. Proverbs 11:13

18. Galatians 6:7

19. 1 Corinthians 15:33

20. Proverbs 13:20

21. Ephesians 5:6

22. Psalm 38:10

23. Psalm 6:7

Unmasking False Friends: Spot the Signs

Looking beyond biblical wisdom, we can spot fake friends. Their actions often reveal their true colors.

Fair-Weather Companions

Throughout my journey, I’ve met many people. Some claim to be friends, but only when it suits them. They appear when they need help, and vanish when you do.

These friends are selfish. They let you down. They’re not interested in your problems. Only theirs. You don’t need such friends. They are self-centered and deceitful.

Gossipmongers

False friends spread your secrets. They do it to hurt you. But remember, God is faithful. He will shield you from such people.

Hurtful Actions

I recall a fight with a friend in medical school. I was at fault and apologized. We moved on. Real friends make mistakes but seek resolution.

False friends aim to inflict pain. They show their fake love. Sometimes, they’re jealous. They can hurt you over minor issues.

Missing in Your Happy Moments

I have many acquaintances. But only one trustworthy friend. He was my best man last year. I invited others to be groomsmen. They disappointed me. One turned off his phone days before the event.

It was tough. But everything went well, by God’s grace. Sadly, such friends are common. But God’s mercy will protect us from two-faced friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some Bible verses about fake family?

Verses like Micah 7:5-6 warn about fake family. Even close relatives can betray you. In Matthew 10:36, Jesus echoes this sentiment.

What does the Bible say about being careful of your friends?

The Bible urges vigilance in friendship. Proverbs 12:26 advises the righteous to be discerning. Proverbs 13:20 warns against befriending fools.

Are there any Bible verses about two-faced friends?

Two-faced friends get a mention in the Bible. Psalm 55:12-14 and Psalm 41:9 depict the hurt from false friendships.

What does the Bible say about pretenders?

In Matthew 7:15-20, Jesus cautions against pretenders. They may seem innocent but are inwardly deceptive. Judge them by their actions.

Can you provide some Bible verses about fakeness?

Fakeness is discouraged in the Bible. 1 John 3:18 urges us to love with actions and truth, not just words. Proverbs 26:23 warns against insincere flattery.

Are there any examples of fake friends in the Bible?

The Bible presents examples of fake friends. Judas, who betrayed Jesus, and Ahithophel, David’s advisor, who conspired against him, are notable.

What are the consequences of bad friendship?

Bad friendships have consequences. 1 Corinthians 15:33 warns that bad company corrupts good character. Proverbs 22:24-25 advises against associating with angry people.

What does Jesus say about broken friendship?

Jesus emphasized love, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Matthew 18:15-17 guides on resolving conflicts. Matthew 5:23-24 urges reconciliation before worship.

What does Proverbs say about correcting a friend?

Proverbs 27:5-6 speaks about correcting a friend. Open rebuke is better than hidden love. Trust a friend’s wounds, not an enemy’s kisses.

What does the Bible say about wrong friendship?

The Bible advises against wrong friendships. 2 Corinthians 6:14 warns against being unequally yoked with unbelievers. Align with those who share your values.

What God says about choosing friends?

Proverbs 27:17 emphasizes choosing friends who encourage growth. Just as iron sharpens iron, a person sharpens another.

What does the Bible say about toxic friendships?

The Bible warns against toxic friendships. Proverbs 14:7 advises staying away from fools. 1 Corinthians 5:11 warns against associating with immoral or greedy people.

How should you deal with false friends?

The Bible advises discernment, forgiveness, and distancing oneself from false friends. Guard your heart, as per Proverbs 4:23. Leave vengeance to God, as per Romans 12:19.

What are the characteristics of a bad friend in the Bible?

The Bible highlights characteristics of bad friends. Dishonesty (Proverbs 16:28), disloyalty (Psalm 41:9), and anger (Proverbs 22:24) are all warning signs. Seek out wise and genuine companions.

Author: Akatakpo DunnDr. Akatakpo Dunn is a dedicated follower of Christ, an active member and speaker, and an ongoing learner of the Scriptures. Passionate about his faith and serving others, he is committed to sharing his spiritual journey and insights to inspire and uplift fellow believers. He has been active in the church for more than 23 years. Through The Faithful Christian Blog, Dr. Dunn combines his love for God, philanthropy, and Scripture, providing a valuable resource for those seeking to grow in their faith. Follow me: on Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Akatakpo Dunn

Dr. Akatakpo Dunn is a dedicated follower of Christ, an active member and speaker, and an ongoing learner of the Scriptures. Passionate about his faith and serving others, he is committed to sharing his spiritual journey and insights to inspire and uplift fellow believers. He has been active in the church for more than 23 years. Through The Faithful Christian Blog, Dr. Dunn combines his love for God, philanthropy, and Scripture, providing a valuable resource for those seeking to grow in their faith. Follow me: on Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Was this article helpful?

YesNo