Life Groups Curriculum

The Bible is one of the most widely read and quoted books in the world, yet it is also one of the most frequently misquoted and misunderstood. Over time, cultural sayings, paraphrased ideas, and snippets of scripture taken out of context have led to widespread misconceptions about its teachings. Phrases like "Money is the root of all evil" or "The truth will set you free" are often repeated with meanings far removed from their biblical roots. Understanding these misquoted verses, their origins, and their true contexts not only enriches our knowledge of scripture but also deepens our appreciation for the profound truths it conveys. By examining these common misunderstandings, we can correct misconceptions and uncover the intended messages of the Bible.

"Money is the root of all evil"

Week 1 - February 3

• Misquoted Verse: The actual verse is 1 Timothy 6:10, which says, "The love of money is the root of all evil" (or "all kinds of evil").
• Context: It’s not money itself that is evil, but an unhealthy attachment or greed for it.

• Out of Context: Commonly used to imply unlimited personal achievement. (Philippians 4:13)
• Context: Paul is speaking about finding contentment in all circumstances, whether in abundance or need.

"Judge not, that you be not judged"

Week 3 - February 17

• Misunderstood Meaning: This is often cited to discourage any form of moral judgment. (Matthew 7:1)
• Context: In the full passage, Jesus is warning against hypocritical or self-righteous judgment, not all discernment (see Matthew 7:5).

• Misapplied for Revenge: Some use this to justify personal retaliation. (Exodus 21:24)
• Context: It refers to legal principles of justice in the Mosaic Law, not personal vengeance (Jesus clarified this in Matthew 5:38-39).

"Cleanliness is next to godliness"

Week 5 - March 3

• Not in the Bible: This phrase originated in early religious traditions but is not biblical.
• Context: While cleanliness is valued (e.g., Leviticus 15 on ceremonial cleanliness), the Bible emphasizes inner purity over outward appearance (Matthew 23:26).

• Partial Quotation: Often quoted without context, implying any truth brings freedom. (John 8:32)
• Context: Jesus says, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." It’s about spiritual freedom through His teachings, not just general truth.

"This too shall pass"

Week 7 - March 17

• Not in the Bible: Commonly mistaken as scripture, this phrase is of Persian origin.
• Context: Similar sentiments about temporary trials appear, such as 2 Corinthians 4:17, "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all."

• Not in the Bible: This phrase originates from a hymn by William Cowper, not scripture.
• Context: While God’s ways are beyond human understanding (Isaiah 55:8-9), this exact phrase is not found in the Bible.

• Not in the Bible: This phrase is often attributed to St. Augustine and popularized by Mahatma Gandhi.
• Context: While the Bible teaches to love others (Matthew 5:44) and oppose sin (Romans 12:9), this exact phrase is not found in scripture.