Spiritual influence in the Bible

         Spiritual influence is the ability to shape or guide the spiritual lives of others through words, actions, or presence. It is a powerful force, often unseen but deeply felt, and can either draw people closer to God or lead them away from Him. In the Bible, we see both godly and ungodly spiritual influences, each with lasting consequences. Recognizing and understanding spiritual influence is essential for every believer.

What is Spiritual Influence?

         Spiritual influence is not about popularity or control—it is about impact. It refers to how one's life affects the spiritual decisions, growth, or decline of another. A spiritually influential person may not hold a title, but their faith, choices, and lifestyle can shape others in profound ways.

    Proverbs 13:20 says, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” This reveals that influence is often transferred through close association.

Examples of Godly Spiritual Influence

1. Jesus Christ

         Jesus is the perfect model of godly spiritual influence. Through His teaching, compassion, miracles, and sacrifice, He influenced not only the disciples but continues to influence billions today. His invitation in Matthew 4:19—“Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men”—was a call to transformation through spiritual influence.

2. Paul the Apostle

         Paul influenced churches across Asia Minor and Europe, writing letters filled with doctrine, correction, and encouragement. He urged the Corinthians, “Imitate me, as I also imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). His spiritual mentorship of Timothy also shows the long-lasting effect of godly guidance (2 Timothy 2:2).

3. Lois and Eunice (Timothy’s grandmother and mother)

         In 2 Timothy 1:5, Paul speaks of the sincere faith that lived in Timothy's grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice. Their quiet yet powerful spiritual influence helped shape Timothy into a strong young leader in the early Church.

4. Moses and Joshua

         Moses mentored Joshua, allowing him to witness God's power and leadership firsthand. When Moses died, Joshua was ready to carry the mantle of leadership (Deuteronomy 34:9). Their relationship is a picture of how spiritual influence can prepare the next generation.

Examples of Ungodly Spiritual Influence

1. The Serpent and Eve

         The first instance of negative spiritual influence appears in Genesis 3 when the serpent deceived Eve. He twisted God’s words, planting doubt and rebellion. Eve’s decision, influenced by the serpent, led to the fall of mankind.

2. Delilah and Samson

         Samson, a judge of Israel, was influenced by Delilah’s persistence and manipulation (Judges 16). Her influence caused him to reveal the secret of his strength, leading to his downfall.

3. King Solomon’s Wives

         Despite his wisdom, Solomon allowed the influence of his foreign wives to turn his heart toward idols (1 Kings 11:1-4). Their spiritual influence led to division and judgment in Israel.

4. Jezebel

         In Revelation 2:20, Jesus rebukes the church at Thyatira for tolerating “that woman Jezebel,” who misled God’s servants into sin. This shows that spiritual influence can operate even within churches if not discerned.

Why Spiritual Influence Matters

         Spiritual influence is powerful because it can shape destinies, nations, and generations. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” God uses people to disciple, encourage, correct, and strengthen one another.

         But spiritual influence can also be destructive when driven by pride, sin, or deception. That’s why the Bible warns in 1 Corinthians 15:33, “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.”

How to Be a Godly Spiritual Influence

1. Live a life of integrity – Let your actions speak louder than words (Matthew 5:16).

2. Be rooted in Scripture – A solid foundation in God’s Word equips you to influence rightly (Psalm 119:105).

3. Stay filled with the Holy Spirit – True influence flows from spiritual discernment and power (Acts 1:8).

4. Encourage and disciple others – Like Paul with Timothy, pass on what you’ve learned (2 Timothy 2:2).

5. Avoid worldly compromise – Guard your heart so your influence remains pure (Proverbs 4:23).

         Spiritual influence is a divine tool. God calls every believer not just to follow Christ, but to influence others for His glory. Whether as parents, teachers, friends, or church members, we are shaping lives spiritually—intentionally, or unintentionally. We must therefore seek to be vessels of holy influence, pointing others to truth, love, and eternal life in Christ.

         As we yield to God, may our lives echo the words of Paul: “Follow me, as I follow Christ.”