Can Faith and Action Coexist?
In this article, you will learn how Acts 27:43 contradicts Exodus 14:13-14, Jeremiah 29:11, Matthew 10:39, Luke 6:29 and James 1:2-4. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
Acts 27:43 tells of a centurion who, wanting to save Paul, stops soldiers from killing prisoners and commands those who can swim to jump overboard to escape to safety. This action-driven approach to survival contrasts with other scriptural teachings that emphasize patience, faith, and letting God's plan unfold.
Consider the wisdom from Exodus 14:13-14, where Moses reassures the Israelites as they face the Red Sea and an advancing Egyptian army. He encourages them to stand still and witness God's deliverance rather than act hastily. The directive is clear: through steadfast faith, divine intervention becomes apparent. This narrative suggests that sometimes action is not required; patience and trust are.
Jeremiah 29:11 further illustrates the theme of divine hope and assurance, stating that God has plans for a future and a hope, plans which prosper and do not harm. This promise invites believers to trust in a predetermined path, even without immediate actions or decisions. It frames life as a journey shaped by faith rather than frantic efforts to control the outcome.
Similarly, Matthew 10:39 teaches the paradox of losing one's life to find it, suggesting that true life comes from surrender, not frantic self-preservation. The message here is about a deep, faith-driven passivity that contrasts starkly with the immediate survival tactics seen in Acts.
Luke 6:29 expands on this approach by encouraging a non-retaliatory stance in the face of aggression. Offering the other cheek is a powerful metaphor for responding with peace and faith in God's justice instead of immediate action.
Finally, James 1:2-4 advises believers to find joy in trials, trusting that perseverance matures faith. It underlines personal growth through enduring hardships, not through desperate activity, but patience and reliance on divine purpose.
These scriptures collectively challenge the practicality of action seen in Acts 27:43, suggesting a broader, introspective path marked by faith and divine trust. Do we trust in our own actions or in God's greater design?
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Acts 27:43 | But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from [their] purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast [themselves] first [into the sea], and get to land: |
| 2. | Exodus 14:13-14 | And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever. [for the...: or, for whereas ye have seen the Egyptians to day] |
| 3. | Jeremiah 29:11 | For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. [expected...: Heb. end and expectation] |
| 4. | Matthew 10:39 | He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it. |
| 5. | Luke 6:29 | And unto him that smiteth thee on the [one] cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not [to take thy] coat also. |
| 6. | James 1:2-4 | My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; [temptations: or, trials] |