1. Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
This verse is often misunderstood as a blanket statement for achieving any goal or desire we may have, regardless of what it is. However, the true meaning behind this verse is that we can persevere through any and all circumstances with the strength and power of Christ.
2. Matthew 7:1 – “Judge not, that ye be not judged.”
This verse is often taken out of context to mean that we should refrain from making any kind of evaluative judgments, but the true meaning is that we should not be hypocritical or overly critical in our judgments of others, and should instead approach them with love and kindness.
3. Genesis 1:27 – “So God created man in his own image.”
This verse is often misunderstood as implying that God has a physical body, when in reality it is referring to the spiritual and moral characteristics that humans possess as being God-given.
4. Romans 10:9 – “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.”
This verse is often misunderstood as implying that simply reciting the words of this confession, often referred to as the “Sinner’s Prayer” will ensure salvation, when in reality it is more about having a genuine belief and acceptance of Jesus as Lord and Savior, as well as demonstrating these beliefs with the fruits of faith in good works and with actual heartfelt repentance and change of ways.
5. 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 – “women should remain silent in the churches…if they have any questions, they should ask their husbands at home.”
These verses are often interpreted to mean that women are meant to be subservient and silent in church, but the historical and cultural context of the time suggests that Paul was addressing a particular issue in the Corinthian church rather than making a universal rule for all churches. Additionally, there are other verses in the New Testament that challenge this idea and promote the equality of men and women in the church.
