# Where is “Bad company corrupts good character” in the Bible?

> “Bad company corrupts good character” is 1 Corinthians 15:33.

Source: https://www.lumin.faith/is-it-in-the-bible/bad-company-corrupts-good-character
By Andrew Kittridge · November 10, 2026

Paul writes it to the church in Corinth, quoting a line from the Greek playwright Menander.

## The verse

> Do not be fooled: “Evil companions spoil good character.”
>
> — [1 Corinthians 15:33](https://www.lumin.faith/read/1-corinthians/15#33) (Lumin Translation)

English Bibles word this verse in different ways. The Lumin Translation, a modern English Bible, is quoted here.

## What it means there

Some in Corinth were saying there is no resurrection of the dead. Paul warns the church not to be led astray by keeping company with that idea.

## Common questions

### Where is “Bad company corrupts good character” in the Bible?

“Bad company corrupts good character” is 1 Corinthians 15:33. English Bibles word this verse in different ways. The Lumin Translation, a modern English Bible, is quoted here. Paul writes it to the church in Corinth, quoting a line from the Greek playwright Menander.

### Is “Bad company corrupts good character” in the Bible?

Yes. It is 1 Corinthians 15:33. In the Lumin Translation, 1 Corinthians 15:33 reads: “Do not be fooled: “Evil companions spoil good character.””

### Who said “Bad company corrupts good character”?

Paul writes it to the church in Corinth, quoting a line from the Greek playwright Menander.

### What does “Bad company corrupts good character” mean in the Bible?

Some in Corinth were saying there is no resurrection of the dead. Paul warns the church not to be led astray by keeping company with that idea.

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