Stalking is the act of harassing or persecuting someone by maintaining unwanted contact or surveillance on them. While the term “stalking” is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, there are several principles and passages that speak to this behavior.
Love Your Neighbor
One of the fundamental teachings of the Bible is to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). Stalking shows a blatant disregard for this command, as it seeks to make someone else uncomfortable and unsafe for one’s own gratification. The Bible calls us to treat others with the same care and concern we would want to receive.
The Golden Rule
Along the same lines is the Golden Rule, stated by Jesus: “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them” (Matthew 7:12). If we would not want to be stalked, we should refrain from imposing such distress on someone else. Stalking demonstrates a lack of empathy and concern for others.
Consideration for Others
There are many verses that instruct us to be considerate of others and not cause harm:
“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:4)
“Let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.” (Romans 14:19)
“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be conceited.” (Romans 12:16)
Stalking shows no regard for another person’s welfare or interests. It seeks to intimidate and dominate.
Brotherly Love
The Bible highly values brotherly love and compassion: “Let brotherly love continue.” (Hebrews 13:1) “Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.” (1 Peter 3:8)
Stalking creates fear and distress, which is the opposite of brotherly love. We are called to build others up, not tear them down.
The Fruits of the Spirit
As Christians, we are to exhibit the fruits of the Spirit like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Stalking reflects none of these godly traits. It shows an obsession, lack of restraint, and harmfulness that should not characterize a follower of Jesus.
Do No Harm
The Bible consistently denounces evil actions and harming others. “Whoever desires to love life and see good days…let him turn away from evil and do good.” (1 Peter 3:10-11)
“Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.” (Titus 3:1-2)
Stalking brings distress and fear, not good. Christians are exhorted to show kindness and do no harm.
Avoiding Temptation
Stalking behaviors often stem from unhealthy romantic feelings or obsessions toward another person. We are warned against falling into sexual temptation:
“Flee from sexual immorality.” (1 Corinthians 6:18)
“For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality.” (1 Thessalonians 4:3)
Rather than stalking someone we are attracted to, the Bible tells us to exhibit restraint and self-control.
Respecting Boundaries
Stalking inherently crosses reasonable boundaries that people set. The Bible encourages respecting the wishes of others:
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3)
“We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.” (Romans 15:1)
If someone expresses discomfort with certain behaviors or contact, a Christian is called to honor and listen to their concerns, not force our way upon them.
Prayer Over Obsession
Rather than obsessing over another person through stalking, we can bring those desires to God in prayer and seek healthy relationships.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)
“Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you.” (Psalm 55:22)
Bringing our struggles and desires to God helps us find freedom from unhealthy thought patterns.
Seek Righteousness
Ultimately, those who follow Christ are called to righteousness: “Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral…nor stalkers…will inherit the kingdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10)
We should flee from wickedness and follow the good: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21)
Stalking epitomizes the opposite of the righteousness, love and goodness the Bible exhorts us to. There is grace and forgiveness when we repent, but Christians must battle the sinful inclinations that fuel such harmful behaviors.
Conclusion
While the Bible does not use the term “stalking,” there are clear principles against harming others, violating boundaries, and insisting on one’s own way. Christians are called to love others, treat them well, exhibit self-control, and bring desires to God in prayer. Stalking goes against many biblical teachings, and believers must resist those temptations and treat everyone with Christ-like consideration.