Snake Bite or Divine Protection? Exploring Biblical Contradictions
In this article, you will learn how Acts 28:3 contradicts Genesis 1:26, Mark 16:18, Luke 10:19 and Psalm 91:13. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
In the New Testament, Acts 28:3 tells an intriguing story of Paul, who was bitten by a viper while gathering sticks for a fire. Remarkably, he suffered no harm, an incident often cited as a testament to divine protection. However, this account seems to clash with several other scriptures that portray humanity's relationship with serpents differently.
First, Genesis 1:26 asserts that humans have dominion over all creatures, suggesting that a snake should pose no threat to someone like Paul. This verse generally sets the foundation of human authority over animals, which appears in stark contrast with Paul's vulnerability to the viper.
Furthermore, Mark 16:18 provides believers with a promise of immunity from serpent bites, stating that they will take up snakes and not be harmed. This promise stands in direct contrast to the scenario in Acts 28:3 where Paul was indeed bitten, albeit unharmed afterwards. The question remains: Was the bite itself a breach of this divine promise, or simply part of a larger demonstration of faith?
Similarly, Luke 10:19 grants believers power to tread on serpents and scorpions without fear. The notion here is one of fearless dominion, undercut by the imagery of Paul's initial peril when the viper fastens onto his hand.
Lastly, Psalm 91:13 reassures believers that they shall tread upon serpents and lions. This verse speaks of triumph over dangers, which may conflict with the initial threat posed to Paul before divine intervention.
These scriptures, taken together, present a complex narrative regarding man's relationship with serpents and divine protection. Is there a deeper significance to Paul's encounter with the viper, or does it highlight discrepancies within the biblical text? This intriguing tension invites believers to explore the multifaceted nature of divine promises and human experience.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Acts 28:3 | And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid [them] on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand. |
| 2. | Genesis 1:26 | And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. |
| 3. | Mark 16:18 | They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. |
| 4. | Luke 10:19 | Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. |
| 5. | Psalm 91:13 | Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. [adder: or, asp] |