Proverbs 16:29 A violent man entices his neighbour, and leads him into the way that is not good. 

This verse gives a solemn warning about the influence of the wicked, especially those driven by violence and selfish ambition. A violent man is not only aggressive in action but also manipulative in influence. He does not commit evil alone – he draws others into it.

‘Entices his neighbour…’ The violent man uses persuasion, pressure, or deceit to lure those around him into joining his path. He may appeal to pride, greed, vengeance, or false loyalty. He makes what is wrong look appealing, convincing others that compromise, rebellion, or aggression is justified or even noble. Like the serpent in Eden, he speaks in a way that makes sin seem wise or harmless. But beneath the surface lies destruction.

‘…and leads him into the way that is not good.’ This phrase is a gentle expression of a perilous path, a road that turns away from righteousness and leads to sin, shame, and judgment. The violent man’s influence pulls others away from truth, purity, and peace, dragging them into cycles of conflict, lawlessness, and regret. He becomes not just a sinner himself but a corrupting force, a stumbling block to others. This is a serious offence in the eyes of God, who holds people accountable not only for their own choices but also for how they influence others.

Evil rarely walks alone. The violent and corrupt seek company in sin, pulling others from the narrow path of life. But those who belong to God are called to be leaders in righteousness, not followers in wrongdoing. Let us be vigilant about the influences we follow and the influence we have on others. May we encourage our neighbours in a good way, the way of Christ, peace, and righteousness.

“Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners” (1Cor. 15:33).