Can Faith Ever Be Denied? Examining Biblical Contradictions
In this article, you will learn how Matthew 10:33 contradicts John 6:37, Romans 8:38-39, 2 Timothy 2:13, John 10:28 and Hebrews 7:25. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
In the Bible, Matthew 10:33 starkly warns believers that if they deny Jesus before others, Jesus will deny them before God in heaven. This verse underscores the importance of outwardly professing one's faith in Jesus, emphasizing public loyalty even in difficult situations. This instruction seems clear; however, other biblical passages present a different narrative that suggests a more forgiving and inclusive approach to faith.
For instance, in John 6:37, we're assured that Jesus will not cast out anyone who comes to Him, indicating a promise of unconditional acceptance. This appears to suggest that even if one falters in their public declaration, Jesus remains welcoming. Contrasting this, Romans 8:38-39 states that nothing can separate believers from the love of God, proclaiming an eternal security that seems to clash with the notion of being denied by Jesus. Similarly, 2 Timothy 2:13 remarks that Jesus remains faithful even if we are faithless, which directly challenges the consequence outlined in Matthew 10:33.
Further confusion arises in John 10:28, where Jesus promises that His followers shall never perish, reinforcing a sense of complete assurance in salvation. Hebrews 7:25 echoes this by stating that Jesus can save completely those who come to God through Him.
These verses collectively suggest a safety net for believers, a promise of unwavering divine grace regardless of human frailty. It's akin to a parent saying they will always accept their child back, no matter what. Yet, Matthew's verse warns of a conditional aspect tied to public acknowledgment.
So, can a momentary falter in faith lead to eternal denial, or are believers always encompassed by Jesus' enduring love and salvation? This apparent contradiction challenges us to explore the depths of faith, grace, and the nature of divine acceptance.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Matthew 10:33 | But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. |
| 2. | John 6:37 | All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. |
| 3. | Romans 8:38-39 | For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, |
| 4. | 2 Timothy 2:13 | If we believe not, [yet] he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself. |
| 5. | John 10:28 | And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any [man] pluck them out of my hand. |
| 6. | Hebrews 7:25 | Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. [to the...: or, evermore] |