The Bible provides a comprehensive portrayal of the wicked, offering insights into their character, actions, and ultimate fate. The term "wicked" is used throughout Scripture to describe those who live in opposition to God's will, often characterized by moral corruption, rebellion, and a rejection of divine authority.

Character and Actions

The wicked are frequently depicted as those who reject God's commandments and pursue their own sinful desires. In the Book of Psalms, the wicked are described as those who "plot against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them" (Psalm 37:12). Their hearts are often hardened, and they are prone to deceit and violence. Proverbs 6:12-14 provides a vivid description: "A worthless person, a wicked man, walks with a perverse mouth, winking his eyes, speaking with his feet, and pointing with his fingers. With deceit in his heart he devises evil; he continually sows discord."

The wicked are also known for their arrogance and pride. Psalm 10:4 states, "In his pride the wicked man does not seek Him; in all his schemes there is no God." This pride leads them to trust in their own strength and wisdom rather than acknowledging their dependence on the Lord.

Rejection of God

A defining characteristic of the wicked is their rejection of God and His authority. Romans 1:18-21 explains that the wrath of God is revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness. Although they know God, they neither glorify Him as God nor give thanks to Him, leading to futile thinking and darkened hearts.

The wicked are often contrasted with the righteous, who delight in the law of the Lord and meditate on it day and night (Psalm 1:2). In contrast, the wicked are like chaff that the wind blows away (Psalm 1:4), indicating their instability and lack of foundation.

Consequences and Fate

The Bible is clear about the consequences that await the wicked. Proverbs 11:21 assures that "Be assured that the wicked will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will escape." The ultimate fate of the wicked is separation from God and eternal judgment. Revelation 21:8 warns, "But to the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and sexually immoral and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their place will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur. This is the second death."

Despite their current prosperity or apparent success, the wicked are ultimately subject to God's justice. Psalm 73:18-19 reflects on their end: "Surely You set them on slick ground; You cast them down into ruin. How suddenly they are laid waste, completely swept away by terrors!"

Call to Repentance

While the Bible describes the wicked in stark terms, it also extends a call to repentance. Ezekiel 33:11 reveals God's heart: "As surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that the wicked should turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways, for why should you die, O house of Israel?" This call to repentance underscores the hope of redemption and transformation for those who turn from their wickedness and seek the Lord.