Wait, That's Not in the Bible? Surprising Truths and Omissions

The Bible is a revered religious text that has shaped beliefs and cultures for centuries. However, not everything we may assume to be in the Bible is actually there. Certain passages, stories, and teachings that we often associate with scripture are surprisingly not found within its pages. In this article, we will delve into some of the most surprising truths and omissions in the Bible, shedding light on the complexities and nuances of this sacred text.

Wait, That's Not In The Bible?

by Jay Rice

4.4 out of 5

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Common Assumptions

Many people believe that certain beliefs or practices are rooted in the Bible when, in reality, they are not explicitly mentioned or supported by its contents. Here are some common assumptions that prove to be false upon closer examination:

• The Earth is flat. This notion is not supported by biblical text. On the contrary, Job 26:7 describes "the circle of the Earth."
• Christians should not drink alcohol. While the Bible does condemn drunkenness (Ephesians 5:18),it does not forbid moderate consumption of alcohol. In fact, Jesus himself turned water into wine at the wedding of Cana (John 2:1-11).
• The Rapture will happen in secret. The biblical account of the Rapture, as found in 1 Corinthians 15 and 1 Thessalonians 4, suggests that it will be a visible and dramatic event witnessed by all.

Omitted Passages

Just as there are passages we assume to be in the Bible but are not, there are also certain stories or teachings that were once part of scripture but were later removed or excluded. Here are some notable omissions that have had historical and theological implications:

• The Gospel of Judas. This controversial text, which portrays Judas Iscariot in a more sympathetic light, was excluded from the New Testament canon in the early centuries of Christianity.
• The Shepherd of Hermas. This early Christian writing, believed to have been written in the first or second century, was widely circulated and respected but was eventually excluded from the Bible.
• The Comma Johanneum. This disputed passage in 1 John 5:7, which states that three witnesses are in heaven—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—is not found in the earliest Greek manuscripts and is considered a later addition.

Misinterpretations and Misunderstandings

Apart from passages that are not in the Bible or have been excluded, there are also instances where certain scriptures have been misunderstood or misinterpreted. These misinterpretations can lead to false beliefs and practices. Here are some common examples:

• "Judge not, that you be not judged." (Matthew 7:1) This verse is often interpreted as a blanket prohibition on judgment, but a closer reading reveals that it refers to hypocritical judgment and warns against condemning others without examining oneself.
• "Spare the rod and spoil the child." (Proverbs 13:24) This verse is often used to justify harsh discipline, but the original Hebrew text suggests that it refers to appropriate instruction and guidance rather than excessive punishment.
• "God helps those who help themselves." This popular saying is not found in the Bible. While the Bible encourages personal effort and responsibility, it also emphasizes the grace and help of God in our lives.

Our understanding of the Bible can be enriched when we recognize the truths and omissions within its pages. By shedding light on common assumptions, exploring excluded passages, and addressing misinterpretations, we can develop a more nuanced and accurate appreciation of this sacred text. The Bible remains a rich and transformative guide for our lives, but it is important to approach it with a critical and discerning eye, seeking to understand its true teachings and avoiding misconceptions. By embracing the dynamic and multifaceted nature of scripture, we can deepen our faith, foster understanding, and navigate the complexities of our spiritual journey.

Wait, That's Not In The Bible?

by Jay Rice

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	328 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	10 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE