One of the most exquisite things that God has bestowed upon us is friendship. A genuine buddy offers consolation during difficult times, support at vulnerable moments, and happiness during festive occasions. According to the Bible, friendship is a connection based on loyalty, love, and trust. But not all of the relationships we come across are sincere. Some people conceal their dishonesty, jealousy, or self-interest behind the façade of friendship. We frequently refer to these as “fake friends.”
The issue of fake buddies is not new. We find instances of treachery, disloyalty, and deceit even in the pages of the Bible. The Bible is not afraid to show the suffering caused by betrayed trust, from Judas kissing Jesus to Job’s friends giving him bad advice. These bible verses for fake friends encounters serve as a reminder that although relationships on earth may not always work out, God’s Word gives us the insight and discernment we need to handle the difficulties of interpersonal relationships.
We could be tempted to harden our hearts or stop interacting with people when we encounter treachery or insincerity. But the Bible verses for fake friends encourages us to seek God’s guidance in dealing with fake friends. We learn how to protect our hearts, recognize intentions, and rely on God’s unwavering companionship through His Word. God is true and faithful, unlike others who might lie to us. Even when others abandon us, he swears to never do so.
Anyone dealing with betrayal or dishonesty in relationships might find advice and support in these 35 potent Bible passages regarding phony friends. Every passage clarifies God’s stance on discernment, loyalty, and integrity. May you discover the insight to choose reliable partners, the strength to face current difficulties, and the healing from past injuries as you reflect on these Scriptures. In the end, these lines serve as a reminder that Jesus Christ is the most trustworthy and genuine friend we will ever have.
35 Powerful Bible Verses For Fake Friends in 2025
1. Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This verse warns us about the influence of the company we keep. Fake friends often bring destructive habits, deceit, or selfish motives that can harm us spiritually and emotionally. Walking with wise companions leads to growth and encouragement, while keeping company with untrustworthy friends exposes us to unnecessary pain. God calls us to choose relationships wisely, ensuring that our friends reflect integrity, godliness, and truth.
2. Proverbs 18:24
“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
This proverb contrasts shallow friendships with true, loyal companionship. Fake friends often abandon us when times get tough, leaving us vulnerable. In contrast, a faithful friend—ultimately found in Christ—remains steadfast through trials. The verse reminds us not to put our full trust in unreliable people but to lean on God and value genuine relationships that mirror His faithfulness and love.
3. Psalm 41:9
“Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.”
This verse foreshadows Judas’ betrayal of Jesus, highlighting the deep pain caused when trust is broken. Fake friends often mask their deceit until the moment of betrayal, which cuts more deeply when it comes from someone close. The passage reminds us that even Jesus endured betrayal, offering comfort when we face similar heartbreak. We can find healing and security by placing our ultimate trust in God, who never betrays us.
4. Proverbs 19:4
“Wealth attracts many friends, but even the closest friend of the poor person deserts them.”
Here, Scripture highlights how false friendships are often motivated by self-interest. Some people only stay connected when they can gain something from us. But once the benefit is gone, so are they. This verse teaches us to discern between friends who are genuine and those who are opportunistic. True friendship remains constant regardless of material status, reflecting God’s unconditional love and loyalty.
5. Matthew 26:48-49
“Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: ‘The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.’ Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, ‘Greetings, Rabbi!’ and kissed him.”
Judas’ betrayal with a kiss is perhaps the most striking example of fake friendship in the Bible. He outwardly showed affection while secretly plotting Jesus’ downfall. Fake friends often disguise betrayal with outward gestures of kindness. This verse cautions us to look beyond appearances, remembering that actions speak louder than words. Christ’s example also shows us how to respond with grace, even when betrayed.
6. Proverbs 26:23-24
“Like a coating of silver dross on earthenware are fervent lips with an evil heart. Enemies disguise themselves with their lips, but in their hearts they harbor deceit.”
This passage describes the danger of people who use flattering words but hide evil intentions. Fake friends often appear supportive outwardly while secretly harboring jealousy or malice. Their words may seem kind, but their motives are corrupt. This verse calls for discernment, encouraging us to look past smooth talk and evaluate the true character of others. Genuine friendship is shown through sincerity, not hidden deception.
7. Psalm 55:12-13
“If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were rising against me, I could hide. But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend.”
These verses capture the pain of betrayal by someone once trusted. An attack from an enemy is expected, but the betrayal of a friend cuts far deeper. Fake friends hurt us most when they disguise themselves as companions. This Scripture shows us that God understands this pain and invites us to bring our wounds to Him. True healing and comfort come from God’s unfailing love.
8. Proverbs 14:20
“The poor are shunned even by their neighbors, but the rich have many friends.”
This verse exposes the shallow nature of friendships built on material advantage. Fake friends are often drawn to wealth, popularity, or benefits rather than genuine love or loyalty. Such relationships lack depth and fade when circumstances change. God calls us to build friendships that are based on integrity, compassion, and sincerity—relationships that reflect His steadfast and selfless love.
9. Job 19:19
“All my intimate friends detest me; those I love have turned against me.”
Job’s lament reflects the agony of betrayal and abandonment by close friends during his suffering. Fake friends often turn away when hardship comes, proving their loyalty was conditional. This verse reminds us that human relationships may falter, but God remains constant. In times of loss and betrayal, His presence offers strength and comfort. He never abandons us, even when friends fail us.
10. Proverbs 27:6
“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
This verse distinguishes between true and false friendship. A genuine friend may offer difficult truths for our good, while fake friends shower us with empty flattery. Betrayal often hides behind insincere kindness, but real friends prioritize honesty over convenience. This verse encourages us to value truth spoken in love while being cautious of deceptive gestures. True friendship is built on honesty and trust, not pretense.
11. Micah 7:5-6
“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. For a son dishonors his father, a daughter rises up against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law—a man’s enemies are the members of his own household.”
This verse emphasizes caution when placing confidence in others. Fake friends, and sometimes even family, can betray trust. God reminds us that human relationships can be flawed, and misplaced trust can bring heartbreak. True security is found in God alone, who never betrays or fails us.
12. Jeremiah 9:4
“Beware of your friends; do not trust anyone in your clan. For every one of them is a deceiver, and every friend a slanderer.”
Jeremiah highlights the painful reality of betrayal among those closest to us. Fake friends not only deceive but also spread slander, causing harm to reputations and relationships. This verse reminds us to use discernment in our friendships, seeking companions who are truthful and loyal. Above all, it directs us to place our ultimate trust in God, who remains faithful in all circumstances.
13. Luke 22:47-48
“While he was still speaking a crowd came up, and the man who was called Judas, one of the Twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him, but Jesus asked him, ‘Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?’”
This verse highlights the betrayal of Jesus by Judas, disguised with a kiss of affection. Fake friends often use outward gestures of loyalty to conceal betrayal. Jesus’ question reveals the hypocrisy of such actions and reminds us to guard against deceitful appearances. This verse also comforts us by showing that Christ understands betrayal personally and offers strength when we face similar heartbreak.
14. Proverbs 25:19
“Like a broken tooth or a lame foot is reliance on the unfaithful in a time of trouble.”
This proverb paints a vivid picture of the unreliability of fake friends. Just as a broken tooth or lame foot fails when needed most, false friends cannot be depended on in times of crisis. True friendship proves itself in adversity, while fake friends disappear. The verse encourages us to build relationships with people who reflect loyalty, reliability, and godly character, just as Christ remains steadfast.
15. Psalm 55:21
“His talk is smooth as butter, yet war is in his heart; his words are more soothing than oil, yet they are drawn swords.”
This verse describes the deceptive nature of fake friends. Their words may sound gentle and kind, but their hearts harbor harmful intentions. Smooth speech can hide betrayal, just as Judas’ kiss did. This passage encourages us to be discerning, recognizing that not everyone who speaks kindly is truly a friend. Genuine companionship is proven through consistent loyalty, not deceptive words.
16. Proverbs 17:17
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
This verse defines the mark of true friendship—constancy in love and loyalty during hardship. Fake friends may vanish when trials arise, but a real friend remains supportive and steadfast. The contrast reminds us that adversity reveals the quality of our relationships. More importantly, it points us to Jesus, who embodies perfect friendship by remaining faithful through every circumstance and offering love that never fails.
17. Job 6:15
“But my brothers are as undependable as intermittent streams, as the streams that overflow when darkened by thawing ice.”
Job uses imagery to describe the unreliability of his so-called friends. Fake friends may appear supportive when it benefits them but disappear when their help is most needed. Just like streams that vanish in heat, their loyalty is inconsistent. This verse encourages us to rely on God, whose faithfulness never changes, and to seek relationships built on steadfastness and integrity rather than empty promises.
18. Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”
This verse warns of the destructive power of gossip and deceit. Fake friends often thrive on stirring division, spreading rumors, and creating discord. Such behavior reveals a lack of genuine love or loyalty. Instead of nurturing relationships, they damage them. God calls us to avoid such companions and to seek friends who promote peace, integrity, and encouragement. True friends build up rather than tear down.
19. Matthew 24:10
“At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other.”
Jesus foretells a time when betrayal and hatred will become common, even among supposed believers. Fake friends are not limited to personal relationships—they can also be found within the church. This verse serves as both a warning and a reminder that betrayal is part of the human experience. Yet it also encourages us to remain faithful to God, whose love endures even when others abandon us.
20. Psalm 109:4-5
“In return for my friendship they accuse me, but I am a man of prayer. They repay me evil for good, and hatred for my friendship.”
These verses capture the heartache of offering love and loyalty only to receive betrayal in return. Fake friends often repay kindness with cruelty and turn against those who show them care. Yet, the psalmist responds not with revenge but with prayer, modeling how believers should handle betrayal. This passage encourages us to bring our pain to God, trusting Him to heal and vindicate us.
21. 2 Samuel 15:12
“While Absalom was offering sacrifices, he also sent for Ahithophel… And the conspiracy gained strength, and Absalom’s following kept on increasing.”
This verse recalls Ahithophel’s betrayal of King David by siding with Absalom’s rebellion. Fake friends often turn against us when opportunity for personal gain arises. Ahithophel’s disloyalty serves as a reminder that not everyone who walks with us is trustworthy. Yet David sought God’s protection, showing us that when betrayal arises, we too must place our confidence in God, who delivers us from false alliances.
22. Matthew 7:15
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.”
This verse warns of people who appear friendly and spiritual outwardly but hide destructive intentions. Fake friends often disguise themselves to gain trust before harming others. Just as wolves wear sheep’s clothing, betrayal can be masked by charm or religious appearance. Jesus urges discernment, reminding us to judge others by their fruit. True friends produce love, loyalty, and sincerity—qualities that align with God’s Word.
23. Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
Though often quoted positively, this verse indirectly contrasts real and fake friends. True friends challenge us to grow in wisdom, faith, and character, while fake friends dull us through deceit or harmful influence. God designed genuine friendship to be a tool for spiritual sharpening, not discouragement. This verse encourages us to value relationships that inspire growth and avoid those that hinder our walk with Christ.
24. 2 Timothy 3:1-2
“But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy.”
Paul describes traits that often define fake friends—selfishness, greed, pride, and disloyalty. In a world full of self-centered motives, many relationships lack sincerity. These verses prepare us for disappointment while urging us to cling to God’s truth. Fake friends embody worldly values, but true friends reflect Christlike humility and love. By knowing the signs, we can wisely guard our hearts and choose godly relationships.
25. Obadiah 1:7
“All your allies will force you to the border; your friends will deceive and overpower you; those who eat your bread will set a trap for you, but you will not detect it.”
This verse shows the painful reality of betrayal by close companions. Even those who share meals may secretly plot against us. Fake friends often deceive quietly until the moment of betrayal. But God exposes their schemes and protects His people. This passage is a sobering reminder that trust must be placed in God alone, whose loyalty is unshakable and whose protection never fails.
26. Psalm 28:3
“Do not drag me away with the wicked, with those who do evil, who speak cordially with their neighbors but harbor malice in their hearts.”
This verse describes people who pretend kindness while secretly harboring malice. Fake friends often use friendly words to hide bitterness or envy. The psalmist prays for God’s protection from such deceitful companions, acknowledging that only God sees the heart. This teaches us to ask for discernment in relationships and to seek friends whose words and actions align with godly integrity and genuine love.
27. Proverbs 6:16,19
“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him… a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.”
Among the things God detests are dishonesty and sowing discord—traits common in fake friends. These behaviors destroy trust and relationships, leaving behind division and pain. God makes clear that deceitful and manipulative actions are offensive to Him. This verse warns us to avoid friendships rooted in lies and conflict, seeking instead those that reflect God’s truth, unity, and love.
28. Zechariah 13:6
“If someone asks, ‘What are these wounds on your body?’ they will answer, ‘The wounds I was given at the house of my friends.’”
This verse captures the heartbreak of betrayal by those closest to us. Fake friends can wound us deeply, not just physically but emotionally and spiritually. The pain of betrayal often leaves scars that linger. Yet this Scripture also points us to Christ, who was wounded by those He came to love. Through Him, we find healing and the assurance that His friendship never fails.
29. Proverbs 20:6
“Many claim to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find?”
This verse highlights the rarity of true friendship. While many people boast of loyalty, few remain faithful when challenges arise. Fake friends often make promises they cannot keep, abandoning us when it matters most. God’s Word urges us to value genuine friends whose loyalty reflects His faithfulness. Ultimately, Christ is the perfect example of a faithful friend who never abandons us.
30. Job 19:14
“My relatives have gone away; my closest friends have forgotten me.”
Job laments the abandonment of friends and family during his suffering. Fake friends often disappear when adversity strikes, proving their loyalty was shallow. This verse reminds us that hardship reveals the true nature of relationships. Yet, even in Job’s loneliness, God remained present. This passage encourages us to seek comfort in God’s constant friendship, which endures when human companionship fades away.
31. Proverbs 12:26
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.”
This verse urges discernment in choosing friends. Fake friends can lead us away from God’s path through deceit and bad influence. The righteous, however, carefully select companions who encourage godliness. This Scripture teaches us to prioritize friendships that draw us closer to Christ rather than those that compromise our integrity. True friendship strengthens our faith, while fake friendships weaken it.
32. 1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’”
Paul warns against underestimating the influence of relationships. Fake friends often lead us into sin, compromise, or spiritual decline. Even if their intentions seem harmless, their actions can corrupt our character. This verse reminds us to guard our hearts and surround ourselves with companions who inspire righteousness and faithfulness. True friends build us up in Christ, while fake friends pull us away from Him.
33. Psalm 35:12-13
“They repay me evil for good and leave me like one bereaved. Yet when they were ill, I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting.”
The psalmist expresses sorrow over friends who betrayed his kindness. Fake friends repay love with cruelty and loyalty with abandonment. Yet, the psalmist’s response shows grace, as he cared for them in their need. This verse reminds us that even when wronged, God calls us to act with compassion. True friendship mirrors Christ’s sacrificial love, while fake friendship exposes selfishness and betrayal.
34. Proverbs 10:18
“Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips and spreads slander is a fool.”
This verse identifies two traits of fake friends—concealed hatred and slander. False friends may pretend kindness but harbor bitterness, eventually harming others through lies. God labels such behavior foolish, exposing the danger of deceitful relationships. The verse reminds us to value honesty, integrity, and loyalty in friendships, reflecting God’s truth. True friends are transparent and uplifting, not deceitful or destructive.
35. John 15:13-14
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.”
This verse reveals the ultimate contrast to fake friendship—Jesus’ sacrificial love. While false friends betray or abandon, Christ proved His loyalty by giving His life for us. His friendship is faithful, unconditional, and eternal. This passage reminds us that true friendship is rooted in sacrifice, love, and obedience to God’s commands. Jesus is the perfect example of a friend who never fails or deceives.
Conclusion
One of life’s greatest blessings is friendship, but when it is marred by dishonesty, deceit, or betrayal, it causes severe wounds. Fake friends can lead us into painful and disappointing cycles by appearing to be happy on the outside but having negative intents. Scripture, however, reminds us that these kinds of experiences are not brand-new. There are several instances of treachery and disloyalty in the Bible, ranging from Job to David to Jesus. These tales demonstrate to us that God is sensitive to our suffering and gives us the discernment to know the truth about interpersonal relationships.
The passages we’ve studied show how different real friends are from phony ones. True friends exhibit loyalty, honesty, and love, which are characteristics of God, whereas fake companions are driven by selfishness, envy, or dishonesty. They help us grow in our faith, support us during difficult times, and inspire us to live moral lives. Above all, these scriptures serve as a reminder that Jesus Christ is our best and most trustworthy friend. Even when others desert us, He never does, because His relationship is forged by the supreme act of love.
These texts encourage us to use discernment, guard our hearts, and make investments in friendships that are consistent with moral values when we negotiate relationships. Although betrayal can be painful, it can also teach us important lessons about faith, fortitude, and dependence on God. We can find solace in the knowledge that God uses every circumstance for our development, even if our fake friends leave. He is a trustworthy friend who will never betray, abandon, or let us down. We can surround ourselves with people who embody His truth and love if we follow His guidance.
