What does the Bible say about twisting scripture?

Twisting scripture is a term used to describe the misinterpretation or deliberate distortion of biblical texts for personal, doctrinal, or manipulative purposes. This practice is not new; it has been present since the earliest days of the Christian faith. The Bible itself contains warnings and examples regarding the dangers of twisting God’s Word. Understanding what the Bible says about this issue is crucial for anyone who seeks to handle scripture with integrity and wisdom.

Biblical Warnings Against Distorting Scripture

Several passages in the Bible explicitly warn against altering, misusing, or misrepresenting God’s Word. One of the clearest warnings comes from the Apostle Peter. In 2 Peter 3:16, he writes about Paul’s letters, noting, “His letters contain some things that are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the other Scriptures, to their own destruction.” Peter makes it clear that twisting scripture is not only possible, but it also leads to spiritual peril.

Another significant warning appears in Revelation 22:18-19. Here, John writes, “I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City.” While this specifically refers to the book of Revelation, the principle is applicable more broadly: God’s Word should not be tampered with.

Examples of Twisting Scripture in the Bible

The Bible also records instances where scripture was twisted, often resulting in dire consequences. In Genesis 3, the serpent questions God’s command to Adam and Eve, subtly altering God’s words to sow doubt and deception. “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” (Genesis 3:1) The serpent’s distortion led to humanity’s fall.

Another example is found in the temptation of Jesus. In Matthew 4:5-7, Satan quotes scripture (Psalm 91:11-12) to tempt Jesus, but he takes the passage out of context to serve his own agenda. Jesus responds by quoting scripture accurately and within the proper context, demonstrating the importance of rightly handling the Word of God.

The Motivation Behind Twisting Scripture

Why do people twist scripture? Sometimes it is out of ignorance—a lack of understanding of the broader biblical context and teaching. Other times, it is deliberate, to justify personal behavior, promote false doctrine, or manipulate others. The Bible warns against false teachers who “pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality” (Jude 1:4) and who “preach another Jesus whom we have not preached, or you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different gospel which you have not accepted” (2 Corinthians 11:4).

The Call to Rightly Handle the Word of Truth

In contrast to twisting scripture, the Bible calls believers to rightly handle God’s Word. Paul exhorts Timothy, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). This involves careful study, consideration of context, and humility before God’s revelation.

Jesus also emphasized the importance of understanding the scriptures accurately. In his debates with religious leaders, he often challenged their interpretations, saying, “You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God” (Matthew 22:29).

Conclusion: The Importance of Scriptural Integrity

The Bible’s message about twisting scripture is clear: it is a dangerous and spiritually destructive practice. Whether through ignorance or intentional manipulation, altering God’s Word leads people away from the truth. Believers are urged to approach the Bible with reverence, seeking to understand its meaning and apply it faithfully. By doing so, they honor God and protect themselves and others from error.