Many of the things people think Jesus said have been lost to time, mistranslation, or outright fabrication. While the four gospels provide many of his teachings, many other supposed quotes and sayings have made their way into popular culture and belief.
God Helps Those Who Help Themselves
This popular phrase is not found anywhere in the Bible or Jesus’ recorded teachings. It is a well-known proverb that originated from ancient Greek philosophy and was later popularized in English by Benjamin Franklin. The sentiment behind this saying contradicts Jesus’ message of grace, mercy, and reliance on God’s power rather than self-sufficiency.
This Too Shall Pass
The origins of this phrase aren’t known for sure, but it is often attributed to ancient Perian or Hebrew folklore. It gained popularity in English literature and is commonly used to provide comfort and perspective during hard times, reminding people that all situations, good or bad, are temporary and come to an end.
Cleanliness is Next to Godliness
This phrase is often attributed to ancient Hebrew wisdom literature or Islamic teachings. It became a popular English proverb in the 17th century, encouraging the idea that physical cleanliness and hygiene are closely linked to spiritual purity.
Love the Sinner, Hate the Sin
Although this phrase is not found in the Bible or any recordings of Jesus, its sentiment aligns with some of Jesus’ teachings about love, forgiveness, and judgment. In the gospels, Jesus showed love and compassion towards sinners and those who were marginalized by society, such as tax collectors and prostitutes (Matthew 9:10-13, Luke 7:36-50).
Money is the Root of All Evil
This popular saying is a misquotation of what the Bible states. Timothy 6:10: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” The difference is significant as the Bible does not condemn money itself as evil, but rather the excessive love or pursuit of money, which can lead to evil behaviors.
To Thine Own Self Be True
Jesus did not say this phrase – it’s actually from Shakespeare’s play Hamlet and is spoken by Polonius as he advises his son Laertes. While the sentiment has some merit, like being authentic and honest, it can also be interpreted as promoting selfishness, which conflicts with Jesus’ teachings.
The Lion Shall Lie Down With the Lamb
Although this wasn’t found in the Bible, the imagery of predators living peacefully alongside prey is found in the Old Testament book of Isaiah. Jesus referenced Isaiah’s prophecies and spoke about the coming of God’s peaceful kingdom.
An Eye for an Eye, a Tooth for a Tooth
This expression is found in the Old Testament (Exodus 21:24, Leviticus 24:20, Deuteronomy 19:21) as part of the Mosaic Law’s principle of proportionate justice or “lex talionis. However, Jesus contradicted and rejected this principle in his teachings. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also” (Matthew 5:38-39).
Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child
This popular saying about corporal punishment of children is not found in the Bible or any of the recorded teachings of Jesus. Jesus does not explicitly address the topic of physical discipline for children, and in the bible, he is shown to welcome them and use them as examples of faith and humility.
Pride Goes Before a Fall
The concept of warning against pride and arrogance is present in both the Old and New Testaments. However, Jesus did not say this phrase. The verse that most closely resembles this saying is found in Proverbs 16:18, which states, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
The Lord Works in Mysterious Ways
Although Jesus did not say this phrase, it does align with Jesus’ teachings about God’s inscrutability and sovereignty. Jesus acknowledged that God’s thoughts and ways are higher than human understanding (Isaiah 55:8-9).
Charity Begins at Home
This popular saying about prioritizing helping your own family first is not found in the Bible. While Jesus did encourage caring for family, he also taught about showing compassion to all people, even strangers and enemies. His ethic of love and generosity extended far beyond just family.
A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned
This saying is about how important it is to save money, however, Jesus did not say it. Jesus did teach about being wise with resources and not being wasteful but he didn’t say saving money was the highest virtue. His teachings focused more on spiritual priorities.
Patience is a Virtue
The concept of being patient with difficulties is present in Jesus’ words but he didn’t say this phrase. He taught his followers to “be patient in affliction” (Romans 12:12) and to “let patience have its perfect work” (James 1:4). Jesus himself modeled remarkable patience by enduring opposition and false accusations. So while he didn’t use those exact words, it was something he believed in.
Blessed Are the Rich, for They Have Received Their Reward
Jesus emphasized the spiritual dangers of wealth, so he didn’t say this. He said, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). Additionally, in Luke 6:24, He warned, “But woe to you who are rich, for you have already received your comfort.” Jesus taught his followers that true blessings come from spiritual richness and reliance on God, not material wealth.
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