Authority, abuse of

The misuse of a person's freedom of action in order to exploit, oppress or treat other people in a way that is not for their good.

Warnings against the abuse of authority

By employers over employees

Ephesians 6:9 See also Leviticus 25:43; Deuteronomy 24:14

And masters, do the same for your slaves. Give up your use of threats, because you know that He who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him.

By fathers over children

Ephesians 6:4 parallel Colossians 3:21

Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

By husbands over wives

Colossians 3:19

Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.

By elders over the church

1 Peter 5:2–3 See also Ezekiel 34:2–7

Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.

By those mistreating foreigners

Exodus 22:21 See also Exodus 23:9

You must not exploit or oppress a foreign resident, for you yourselves were foreigners in the land of Egypt.

By leaders over those who are led

Matthew 20:25–27 parallel Mark 10:42–44 See also Luke 22:25–26

But Jesus called them aside and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their superiors exercise authority over them. It shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave —

By those taking advantage of the helpless or poor

Exodus 22:22 See also Proverbs 22:22; Ezekiel 22:29; Zechariah 7:10

You must not mistreat any widow or orphan.

By those who oppress others

Jeremiah 22:17 See also Psalm 73:8, Psalm 119:134; Ezekiel 22:7

“But your eyes and heart are set on nothing except your own dishonest gain, on shedding innocent blood, on practicing extortion and oppression.”

Examples of the abuse of authority

Genesis 16:6 See also Exodus 1:11; 1 Kings 12:14; James 2:6

“Here,” said Abram, “your servant is in your hands. Do whatever you want with her.” Then Sarai treated Hagar so harshly that she fled from her.