Does the Bible really contradict itself?
You’ve probably heard this question before. It’s a common challenge from skeptics, and honestly, it can shake even the strongest believers.
Maybe you’ve felt that sinking feeling when someone says,
“The Bible is full of contradictions!”
Suddenly, your faith feels attacked. You feel unprepared. You wonder if you can defend what you believe.
I’ve been there too.
But here’s the truth: the Bible has stood strong for thousands of years. When we look closely, we find that these “contradictions” actually have reasonable answers.
Today, I’ll walk you through 10 common Bible contradictions and show you how to confidently respond. You’ll leave this post encouraged, better equipped, and stronger in your faith.
Why This Matters
Many Christians fear these objections because they feel unprepared.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to be a scholar to understand these answers.
You simply need patience, wisdom, and the right perspective.
Throughout this post, I’ll use simple language, relatable stories, and clear solutions to each problem.
1. Can God Be Tempted?
Let’s begin with James 1:13 and Hebrews 4:15.
James says God cannot be tempted.
Hebrews says Jesus was tempted.
Is that a contradiction?
Not at all.
The key here is understanding that the Bible uses the word “tempt” in two ways. In James, it refers to being enticed by evil. In Hebrews, it refers to being tested.
Jesus was tested, but He was never enticed to sin.
It’s just like when a teacher gives a student a test, the purpose isn’t to cause failure, but to reveal character.
2. Did the Flood Last 40 Days or 150?
Genesis 7:17 mentions 40 days of rain, but Genesis 7:24 says the waters stayed for 150 days.
Here’s the solution: It rained for 40 days, but the water remained for 150 days afterward.
Think of it like a storm—rain may stop, but flooding lasts much longer.
3. Was Abraham Justified by Faith or Works?
Romans 4 says faith justified Abraham.
James 2 says works justified him.
Which is right?
Both! Romans talks about Abraham’s relationship with God. James talks about how his faith showed itself to others.
Imagine you trust your friend but prove it by helping them during hard times. Faith and works go hand-in-hand.
4. How Many Did David Kill, 700 or 7,000?
2 Samuel 10:18 says 700 charioteers were killed.
1 Chronicles 19:18 says 7,000.
This is a matter of Hebrew language. The phrase “charioteers” and “chariots” can overlap in meaning. It’s likely David killed 7,000 men associated with 700 chariots, both are true depending on wording.
5. When Was Jesus Born, Herod or Caesar Augustus?
Matthew and Luke both describe Jesus’ birth but mention different rulers, Herod and Caesar Augustus.
That’s no contradiction. Herod ruled locally in Judea, while Caesar ruled the entire empire.
Think of it like saying you live in Texas under the U.S. President and also under your state governor, both are true.
6. Does God Love Everyone?
John 3:16 says God loves the world.
Psalm 5:5 says God hates evildoers.
This is about context.
God’s love is available to all, but He also hates evil actions. A parent can deeply love their child yet hate bad behavior.
7. Where Does God Dwell, Zion or Heaven?
Psalms say God dwells in Zion. Other verses say He lives in heaven.
Which is correct?
Both. God is everywhere. Zion refers to His special presence among His people, while heaven refers to His ultimate throne.
8. How Many Women Went to Jesus’ Tomb?
The Gospels mention different women visiting the tomb.
Does this mean they contradict?
No. Each writer focused on different details. Altogether, they provide a fuller picture. It’s like multiple friends telling the same story from their unique viewpoint.
9. Does the Bible Talk About Aliens?
Some Bible versions use the word “alien.” However, it simply means foreigner or sojourner, not space beings!
This is a case of words changing meaning over time.
10. Did Abraham Have One Son or Many?
Genesis mentions Abraham had multiple sons.
Yet Hebrews 11:17 calls Isaac his “only son.”
Why?
Isaac was the promised son. The phrase highlights God’s covenant, not just biological children.
Why These Answers Matter
As you’ve seen, most Bible “contradictions” simply require careful reading and understanding.
The Bible never fails. It simply calls us to study deeper.
Quiz: Test Your Knowledge!
How many of these alleged contradictions did you already know?
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0-3
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4-6
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7-9
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All 10
(Comment your score below!)
Final Encouragement
You don’t need to fear difficult questions. Instead, take them as opportunities to grow.
Keep reading, keep asking, and most of all, keep trusting.
God’s Word remains true forever.
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Very instructive and good structure of subject material, now that’s user pleasant (:.
Thanks