When Words and Actions Clash: A Biblical Dilemma
In this article, you will learn how Judges 16:8 contradicts Proverbs 18:21, Colossians 3:9, Ephesians 4:25, 1 Peter 3:10 and Romans 12:17. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
In the narrative of Judges 16:8, Samson's tale unfolds with intrigue, where the Philistine leaders conspire with Delilah, providing her strong ropes to tie Samson and discover the secret of his supernatural strength. Their actions are driven by a desire to neutralize a formidable adversary who had caused them significant trouble. This story highlights themes of deceit and manipulation as Delilah's ties bind more than Samson’s physical form—they reveal the entanglements of trust betrayed.
Contrast this with Proverbs 18:21, which declares the power of the tongue, suggesting that words hold the potential to build or destroy. The tongue's power to edify stands in stark contradiction to Judges where speech is wielded as a weapon for deception.
Similarly, New Testament teachings further emphasis integrity and honesty. Colossians 3:9 advises believers not to lie, Ephesians 4:25 urges truthfulness amongst neighbors, and 1 Peter 3:10 recommends keeping one's tongue from evil. These verses collectively create a moral fabric that wars against the deceptive nature observed in the story of Samson and Delilah.
Romans 12:17 further enriches this contrast by advising against repaying evil with evil. It suggests a higher moral calling, where retaliation and deceit do not mirror the injustices faced, but rather respond with integrity and righteousness.
Imagine these differing approaches like paths in a forest: one leads through a dark thicket of deceit, characterized by entrapment and hidden snares, akin to Delilah's actions. The other path, though challenging, winds through clearings of honesty, promoting growth and reconciliation. The Bible provides both stories and instructions, leaving us to ponder: Which path do we choose when faced with conflict, and how do our words and actions align with our faith? The contradictions are not merely historical or scriptural; they are a reflection of the ongoing choices believers face in the journey of life.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Judges 16:8 | Then the lords of the Philistines brought up to her seven green withs which had not been dried, and she bound him with them. [green...: or, new cords: Heb. moist] |
| 2. | Proverbs 18:21 | Death and life [are] in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. |
| 3. | Colossians 3:9 | Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; |
| 4. | Ephesians 4:25 | Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. |
| 5. | 1 Peter 3:10 | For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: |
| 6. | Romans 12:17 | Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. |