
The Bible has inspired and guided billions of people over the years. That's not to say that everything it contains immediately sits right with every reader, though. It's only fitting that a book that deals with complex issues like spirituality and human nature will cover some controversial ground. This includes sensitive topics like violence, social justice, and gender roles. When viewed with a critical eye, these passages spark debate, forcing us to grapple with their true meaning.
This is nothing new. For centuries, many verses in the Bible have caused theologians, scholars, and the average reader to do a double-take. Understanding these passages requires considering the context, such as when these words were written or their surrounding verses. With that in mind, here’s a look at seven of the most controversial verses in the Bible. Each entry features some background information and what it means. All verses are quoted from the King James Version unless otherwise noted.
Ephesians 5:22
“Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.”
Ephesians 5:22 is routinely cited as Biblical proof that wives should be submissive to their husbands, clearly establishing the man as “the boss” of the marital union. A look at the preceding verse, Ephesians 5:21, provides some context: "Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God." This suggests both husband and wife should submit to each other. Then, Ephesians 5:23-33 makes it clear that marriage should be about mutual submission, instructing husbands to love their wives "even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it."
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
On the surface, Philippians 4:13 seems more inspirational but controversial. Well-intentioned followers of Christ often cite this verse after accomplishing something difficult. So, the controversy stems from misunderstanding the meaning. For example, many basketball players have made a dramatic, seemingly impossible shot to win the game in the final seconds. Afterward, reporters will ask how they did it, and the player quotes Philippians 4:13. But the verse doesn't say Christ will provide a miracle when needed. It's actually prompting you to remain faithful through life’s greatest challenges, as the Lord will see you through them.
Matthew 7:1
“Judge not, that ye be not judged.”
Some use this verse as justification to avoid addressing sin in their lives. Others take it to mean that no one should be criticized for anything because only God can hold us accountable for our actions. However, a reading of Matthew 7:2-5 shows us Jesus is only advising us not to judge hypocritically. In other words, we should not judge others when we possess the same faults. The true sentiment in this verse is not to avoid criticism but to work on ourselves and become a good example for those around us.
Genesis 19:5
“And they called unto Lot, and said unto him, Where are the men which came in to thee this night? bring them out unto us, that we may know them.”
The traditional interpretation of this verse has been that the men of Sodom wanted to have homosexual relations with Lot’s guests. That’s because the use of the word “know” in the Old Testament often refers to sexual intimacy. Indeed, the Easy English Bible translation of this verse is: "The men shouted to Lot, ‘Where are the men who are staying with you tonight? Bring them out here to us. We want to have sex with them.’"
The provocative nature of this interpretation is enough to make this verse controversial. Historically, theologians have used this verse and its surrounding story as proof that Sodom's primary sin was homosexuality. However, some newer scholars argue that it was more a matter of Sodom's general wickedness, which included inhospitality. (For context, hospitality was considered a sacred duty in ancient times.) The debate continues, although everyone agrees that the story of Sodom and Gomorrah is a warning against disobedience to God.
Psalm 137:9
“Happy shall he be, that taketh and dasheth thy little ones against the stones.”
With its graphic depiction of violence against children., Psalm 137:9 is one of the most disturbing verses in the Bible. It's part of a psalm expressing the grief and anger of the Israelites and their desire for revenge against Babylon. Regardless of the context, a Bible verse that seems to condone — or maybe even command — the murder of infants is sure to court controversy.
Ultimately, the verse and Psalm 137 as a whole reflect the ugly reality of ancient warfare, when violence against women and children was commonplace. It’s important to remember that the verse is a cry of anguish borne out of a desire for justice, expressed by war-torn people who have just experienced horrific trauma.
Matthew 10:34
“Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.”
Matthew 10:34 seems to contradict Jesus’s message of peace and love, earning it some controversy. How can Jesus, described as the “Prince of Peace” in Isaiah 9:6, say he came to bring a sword? Again, it helps to look at the entire chapter for context.
In Matthew 10, Jesus sends his disciples to preach the gospel. He warns that their faith will cause them to face significant opposition, possible persecution, and maybe even division within their own families. The “sword” mentioned in the verse is not a literal weapon. Instead, it’s a metaphor for the disruption to come as the message of Jesus spreads.
Romans 13:1
“Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.”
Romans 13:1 has long been a source of controversy. Does this verse mean you must show absolute obedience to your government, even if it’s corrupt? Does it prohibit protest and civil disobedience? Arguments for and against these interpretations have circulated for centuries now.
Remember that Paul wrote these words during a time of relative peace and prosperity within the Roman Empire. Although there were instances of corruption and injustice at the local level, most citizens were happy with their government. In addition, a close reading of Romans 13:1-7 refutes the idea that God approves of every action taken by every government. Instead, He simply wants governments to be a force for good in society. As far as protest, other stories in the Bible — Daniel or the Hebrew Midwives, for example — indicate that resisting unjust authorities is the right thing to do.
This list of controversial verses is just the tip of the iceberg. The Bible challenges our preconceived notions and forces us to examine ourselves. It's only natural that some parts will give us pause. Ultimately, that's not a bad thing if we take the time to discern what these verses truly mean.