What's A Defender In Bullying

The defender in a bullying situation is someone who stands up for the person being bullied. They don’t just watch and stay quiet—they take action to help. Being a defender is one of the most powerful ways to stop bullying because it shows the bully that their behavior is not okay and that the person being bullied is not alone.

​What Does a Defender Do?
​Speaks Up – A defender might say something like:
“That’s not cool. Leave them alone.”
“Why are you being so mean?”
“We don’t treat people like that.”

Speaking up can make a bully back down, especially if others join in.

Supports the Person Being Bullied – After the bullying happens, a defender checks in on the person being bullied. They might say:

“Are you okay? You don’t deserve that.”
“Come hang out with me.”
“Want me to go with you to tell a teacher?”
Just knowing someone cares can make a big difference.

Gets Help from an Adult – Defenders don’t have to handle bullying alone. If things get serious, telling a teacher, counselor, or another trusted adult can help stop the situation.

Doesn’t Encourage the Bully – Some people laugh along or stay quiet because they don’t want to be targeted. But a true defender doesn’t join in or give the bully attention. They make it clear that bullying isn’t okay.

​Why Are Defenders Important?
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Bullies often stop when they see their actions aren’t accepted.
The person being bullied feels supported and less alone.
It helps create a kinder and safer environment for everyone.

​How Can You Be a Defender?
If you see bullying, think about what you can do. You don’t always have to confront the bully directly—just showing kindness, offering support, or getting help from an adult is already a big step.

It takes courage to be a defender, but standing up for others makes you a strong and kind person. You have the power to make a difference! 💙

Would Jesus Be A Defender?

1. Step In and Speak Up (If Safe to Do So)
​Proverbs 31:8-9 – "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves... Defend the rights of the poor and needy."
If you witness the bullying happening, calmly but firmly tell the bully to stop. You don't have to get aggressive—just confident.

Example: "Hey, that's not okay. Leave them alone."

Sometimes, a firm voice and eye contact can make the bully back off.
If the bullying is physical, don't try to fight back. Instead, focus on protecting the victim and getting help.

​2. Get Help From an Adult
​Isaiah 1:17 – "Seek justice. Defend the oppressed."

If this kid is being physically hurt, it's important to report it to a teacher, counselor, or another school authority.

Reporting isn't "snitching"—it's making sure no one gets seriously hurt.
If you're worried about the bully finding out you told, you can report it anonymously or ask an adult to check on the situation without mentioning you.

​3. Support the Victim

​ 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – "Encourage one another and build each other up."

Talk to the kid after a bullying incident and let them know they're not alone.
Example: "Hey, I saw what happened. That was really messed up. Are you okay?"
if they're sitting alone at lunch, invite them to sit with you or walk with them in the hallway.
Just knowing someone cares can make a huge difference.

​4. Get Others to Help

Ecclesiastes 4:12 – "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."

If you feel unsafe stepping in alone, ask a couple of friends to stand with you. Bullies usually back off when they realize multiple people are against them.
If it's happening regularly, you and others can talk to a teacher together so there's more support.

​5. Pray for Strength and for Change

2 Timothy 1:7 – "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."

Pray for wisdom on how to help and for the bully to change.
It may sound hard, but Jesus even tells us to pray for our enemies (Matthew 5:44). That doesn't mean we let them continue bullying, but we pray that their heart softens and they stop hurting others.

​​ 6. If It's an Emergency
​ If someone is being seriously injured, don't try to handle it alone—get help immediately from a teacher, principal, or even call emergency services if it's that bad.
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What Would Jesus Do?
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Jesus never stood by and let injustice happen. He spoke up for the weak, confronted wrongdoing with wisdom, and always led with love. By standing up for this kid, you are showing Christ's love in action.

Would you like help figuring out exactly what to say or do in a specific situation? I can help you plan what to say if you're feeling nervous.