Only 60% of all Christians are guilty of ripping verses out of context. The other 40% are liars. Below are a few ones that I took of context before a good friend of mine came along and graciously showed me the context...John 3:16. Yes, we all know it by memory, but how about the context (i.e. verses 14, 15, 17 and 18)? Go learn the context. please.
James 2. "Faith without works is dead...Even the demons believe." Who is speaking in James 2:19? Is it James or the hypothetical viewpoint he is about to shoot down in his diatribe?
Jeremiah 29:11. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for wholeness and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Is this referring to Americans in the 21st Century or to Jews of the ancient world??? I think you know the answer.
Matthew 18:20. “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst.” Yes, we've all used this one at one time or another. Don't be embarrassed :)
Matthew 7:1. “Judge not, lest ye be judged.” The non-believers' favorite verse!
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The danger of knowing the Scriptures in their original context is pride. People who receive training on Bible Study methods whether through Bible College or Seminary often fall into a Pharisaical trap; that is, they acquire a lot of knowledge and lack right relationship with the Lord. Knowledge plus lack of relationship creates disaster.
The next time one of your friends or even a door-to-door evangelist takes a Scripture out of context, be gracious and patient enough to help the person understand the context without Bible Bashing. After all, we're here to help each other out anyways right? right.
Happy helping friends!
Ryan
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