Walking on dangerous ground

When people change the Bible to fit their own ideas, they step onto dangerous ground. Altering God’s Word undermines its authority and distorts its truth.

Proverbs 30:5-6 says, “Every word of God is tested; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. Do not add to His words, or He will rebuke you, and you will be proved a liar.” God’s Word is already complete and trustworthy.

One way people add to Scripture is by piling on man-made rules and traditions, making them equal with God’s commands. Another way is twisting the Word to fit denominational doctrines instead of letting the Bible speak for itself. And sometimes, people simply go beyond what is written, teaching their own opinions as though they carry God’s authority. All of these are dangerous.

Deuteronomy 4:2 warns, “You shall not add to the word which I am commanding you, nor take away from it, that you may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you.”

Revelation 22:18-19 gives an even sterner warning: “I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his part from the tree of life and from the holy city, which are written in this book.”

James 3:1 adds, “Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.” Those who handle God’s Word must do so with care, because misleading others brings serious judgment.

Nothing should ever be added, nothing should ever be taken away, and nothing should ever be left out. The Bible is perfect as God gave it. To tamper with it is to challenge God Himself. We are called to receive it as it is, to believe it as it is, and to live it as it is. The Spirit of God opens our eyes to its truth, but the words remain His. Our part is not to improve them, but to obey them.

To contact Dean or share your own thoughts, email hopeinchrist2024@yahoo.com.