Doesn’t The Bible Say…? 2 Timothy 2:14-21
Appalling Lack of Bible Knowledge Lady with problems said, “The Bible says grin and bear it.” When asked where, she replied, “I think it was in Paul’s letter to the Deuteronomite” Many such expressions Rarely research the Bible
“Idle Mind is The Devil’s Workshop” Heard many times Familiarity makes it seem true Used to speak of an idle person
“Idle Mind is The Devil’s Workshop” Not in the Bible Devil will take advantage (1 Peter 5:8) Plight of the man out of whom the demon was cast (Luke 11:24-26) Minds filled with proper things (Philippians 4:8)
“Spare The Rod And Spoil The Child” Used in discussing discipline of children Bible teaches the use of the “rod” Need for accuracy in quoting the Bible
“Spare The Rod And Spoil The Child” Not in the Bible Rod symbolizes use of pain in discipline Used for chastising (Proverbs 13:24; 22:15; 23:13, 14; 26:3; 29:15) Does not justify child abuse
“God Helps Those…Help Themselves” Expresses a certain amount of truth Used when discussing those who are lazy, or lack ambition Not because they cannot, but will not
“God Helps Those…Help Themselves” Not in the Bible Some blessings on everyone (Matthew 5:45) Those who will not work are sinning (2 Thessalonians 3:10) We all are expected to do what we can
“The Road to Hell… Good Intentions” Deals with procrastination Points out the need to follow through Easier to plan to do something than to do it
“The Road to Hell… Good Intentions” Not in the Bible Sin is transgression of the law (1 John 3:4; 5:17) Sin by neglecting to do what is right (James 4:17) Merely assessing a problem not enough (1 John 3:17, 18)
“Cleanliness Is Next To Godliness” Emphasizes a need for orderliness Used by parents to get a room cleaned Maybe used concerning personal hygiene
“Cleanliness Is Next To Godliness” Not in the Bible Godliness is essential and beneficial (1 Timothy 4:6-9) Cleanliness may enhance our influence for good (1 Corinthians 9:22) Joseph cleaned up before seeing Pharaoh (Genesis 41:14)
Conclusion Be able to detect such misstatements Don’t take anyone’s word for what the Bible says