Can Human Unity Rival Divine Power?
In this article, you will learn how Genesis 11:6 contradicts Genesis 18:14, Matthew 19:26, Job 42:2, Mark 10:27, Luke 1:37, Jeremiah 32:17, Isaiah 55:9 and Psalm 33:10. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The story of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11:6 presents the idea that human unity and a common language can lead to remarkable achievements, suggesting that "nothing will be impossible" for them. This narrative illuminates the potential of collaboration and shared purpose among people. However, when we look at other verses in the Bible, a contrasting theme emerges about the limits of human capability compared to divine power.
Several scriptures emphasize that while human efforts are significant, they can never surpass the omnipotence of God. Genesis 18:14 questions, "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" implying that divine intervention is unrivaled. Similarly, Matthew 19:26 and Mark 10:27 affirm that "with God all things are possible," underscoring a distinction between human effort and divine potential.
In the book of Job, 42:2 acknowledges that no purpose of God can be thwarted, further emphasizing divine supremacy. Luke 1:37 echoes this sentiment with the assertion that "nothing is impossible with God." Jeremiah 32:17 praises God's unparalleled ability, stating He created the heavens and earth, attributing unmatched power to Him.
Moreover, Isaiah 55:9 declares God's ways are higher than human ways, suggesting a transcendence that human unity cannot achieve. Psalm 33:10 illustrates that God can nullify the plans of people, standing in opposition to the notion in Genesis 11:6 that human unity can accomplish anything without divine interference.
These verses collectively underscore a fundamental theological tension: while human collaboration is powerful, the scope and effectiveness of human endeavors always remain subordinate to the omnipotent, all-knowing nature of God. Much like an orchestra that needs a conductor, human efforts find their ultimate direction and purpose not solely in unity, but in alignment with divine will. Is true accomplishment only achievable through unity with the divine?
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Genesis 11:6 | And the LORD said, Behold, the people [is] one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. |
| 2. | Genesis 18:14 | Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son. |
| 3. | Matthew 19:26 | But Jesus beheld [them], and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. |
| 4. | Job 42:2 | I know that thou canst do every [thing], and [that] no thought can be withholden from thee. [no thought can be...: or, no thought of thine can be hindered] |
| 5. | Mark 10:27 | And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men [it is] impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible. |
| 6. | Luke 1:37 | For with God nothing shall be impossible. |
| 7. | Jeremiah 32:17 | Ah Lord GOD! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, [and] there is nothing too hard for thee: [too...: or, hid from thee] |
| 8. | Isaiah 55:9 | For [as] the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. |
| 9. | Psalm 33:10 | The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought: he maketh the devices of the people of none effect. [bringeth: Heb. maketh frustrate] |