A Biblical Response to Trafficking and Bible Verses for Human Trafficking
In the areas where Venture serves, up to 70% of children get trafficked into forced labor or the sex industry. Of course, this horror stirs up a range of emotions in our hearts, and we know that it breaks our Lord’s heart too. So how should we, as Christians, be combating trafficking in persons? How can we represent the Kingdom in our answer to this wrongdoing? What are some Bible verses for human trafficking?
As with all things, our response should stem from scripture. In light of that, here are a few verses to consider as we begin to respond:
1. Genesis 1:27
“So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”
2. 1 Corinthians 3:16
“Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?”
3. Micah 6:8
“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
This small selection of verses gives us a window into the Bible’s declarations about the inherent dignity of persons and our call to action as followers of Christ. Foundationally, God made each son and daughter in His image and called us ‘very good.’ Furthermore, after Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, God sees every follower of Christ clothed in His righteousness.
Clearly, trafficking directly attacks and enslaves the dignity of each person. Their bodies, although temples of the Lord, are forced into daily violation that was never intended in God’s original creation. We know that God’s heart breaks each day for this profound injustice as He watches His children enslave one another. As we love kindness and walk humbly with God, our hearts will align with His and break for what breaks His heart. In response to this, we are to do justice, just as we are commanded in Micah 6:8.
But how, exactly, can we enact justice in this area and work on combating trafficking in persons? Firstly, as always, we should be diligent in prayer. Here are some people to consider as you begin to pray:
1. Those being trafficked
2. The traffickers themselves
3. People on the frontlines working with search, rescue, and recuperation
4. Administrators of organizations fighting this injustice
5. Everyone who encounters this injustice–that they may be moved to bring justice
Aside from fervent prayer, there are other ways to get involved in combating trafficking in persons! You can volunteer at a number of local and global organizations.
Additionally, as an organization, alongside our partners, we identify and intercept women and children who are vulnerable to trafficking, as well as provide holistic care including various safe housing options that we help support. We would be honored to have you join us in that mission! To that end, you can read more about the problem here and about our work here and here. You can be a part of these ongoing efforts. Click here to donate.
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