11 Things You Think Are in the Bible, but Really Aren’t

Explore with us 11 common misconceptions thought to be in the Bible. Uncover surprising truths for a deeper understanding of Scripture.

The Saying “God Helps Those Who Help Themselves”

"God helps those who help themselves" is not from the Bible, but was popularized by Benjamin Franklin in his Poor Richard's Almanack. The Bible emphasizes reliance on God's strength.

The Forbidden Fruit as an Apple

Genesis mentions a forbidden fruit, but doesn't specify its type. The 'apple' idea arose from a 4th-century Latin Bible mistranslation, equating 'malus' to 'evil or apple'.

“Cleanliness Is Next to Godliness”

"Cleanliness is next to Godliness" is attributed to 18th-century theologian John Wesley, not the Bible, though it emphasizes cleanliness and purity.

The Three Wise Men

The Bible doesn't specify the number of Magi visiting baby Jesus. The assumption of three comes from the gifts - gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

“This Too Shall Pass”

"This too shall pass" doesn't originate from the Bible, but from Persian Sufi poets. It was popularized by Lincoln. The closest biblical reference is in 2 Corinthians 4:17-18.

The Phrase “Money Is the Root of All Evil”

The phrase "Money is the root of all evil" is often misquoted from the Bible. The actual verse from 1 Timothy 6:10 states, "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil."

“Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child”

The phrase, often used to justify child physical discipline, doesn't appear in the Bible. Proverbs 13:24 stresses on discipline, not physical punishment.

The Phrase “God Works in Mysterious Ways”

"The saying “God works in mysterious ways” is not in the Bible but originated from a hymn by William Cowper. The closest biblical reference is Romans 11:33.

“Hate the Sin, Love the Sinner”

"Love the sinner, hate the sin" is often attributed to Gandhi or St. Augustine. Closest Bible reference is in Jude 1:23 emphasizing love & mercy but hating sin.

“God Won’t Give You More Than You Can Handle”

"This phrase isn't in the Bible. The nearest reference is in 1 Corinthians 10:13, emphasizing God's strength and grace in overcoming temptation."

Be in the World, but Not of the World

"The phrase 'in the world but not of it' doesn't appear in the Bible. Originating from St. Edmund Arrowsmith's prayer, its closest biblical reference is in John 17:14-16. Jesus highlights the importance of living a distinctive life.

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