Today we will talk about bible verses about snake handling. Many Christians do not know what this means. Snake handling often stems from a literal interpretation of a passage in the Bible, specifically Mark 16:17-18, where believers are said to handle snakes as a sign of their faith. This practice has led to both fascination and controversy within the Christian community. Are we truly to handle snakes as a testament to our faith? Or is it a deeper metaphor about trusting in God amid our fears? Let’s embark on this journey together as we explore various biblical verses and their meanings related to snake handling. Be in the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word.
Bible Verses About Snake Handling
Faith Tested Through Trials
In our walk with God, we often encounter challenges that test our faith. The Bible reminds us that these trials serve a purpose, helping us grow stronger and more resilient. When contemplating snake handling, we can reflect on the broader theme of trusting God in challenging situations. It’s about being prepared for anything that comes our way while firmly holding on to our faith. Just as Jesus guided His disciples, we are encouraged to believe in His protection and power over our fears.
Mark 16:17-18
“And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” – Mark 16:17-18
James 1:2-4
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” – James 1:2-4
Romans 5:3-5
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” – Romans 5:3-5
2 Corinthians 4:8-9
“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” – 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
God’s Protection in Danger
When we think about snake handling, we can also focus on God’s promise of protection in dangerous situations. The Bible tells us repeatedly that God is our refuge and fortress; He provides for us in times of danger. The concept of snake handling symbolizes a profound trust in God’s ability to protect us, whether from physical harm or spiritual challenges. As we explore these verses, let’s remember that our faith shields us, much like how God’s presence shields us from harm.
Psalm 91:1-2
“Whoever dwells in the secret place of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'” – Psalm 91:1-2
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
Proverbs 18:10
“The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” – Proverbs 18:10
Psalm 121:7-8
“The Lord will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” – Psalm 121:7-8
Matthew 10:29-31
“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” – Matthew 10:29-31
The Symbolism of Snakes
When discussing snake handling, we should consider the symbolism that snakes hold in the Bible. Throughout scripture, snakes can represent both danger and temptation. However, they also can symbolize regeneration and healing when viewed through a spiritual lens. By meditating on the deeper meanings behind these symbols, we can gain insight into how God works in our lives, calling us to face our fears while seeking His wisdom and guidance.
Genesis 3:1
“Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, ‘Has God indeed said, “You shall not eat of every tree of the garden?”‘” – Genesis 3:1
Numbers 21:9
“So Moses made a bronze snake and put it up on a pole; then when anyone was bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze snake, they lived.” – Numbers 21:9
Revelation 12:9
“The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.” – Revelation 12:9
John 3:14-15
“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.” – John 3:14-15
Deuteronomy 8:15
“He led you through the vast and dreadful wilderness, that thirsty and waterless land, with its venomous snakes and scorpions; he brought you water out of hard rock.” – Deuteronomy 8:15
Trusting God in the Uncertain
Our spiritual journey often leads us into areas of uncertainty. Snake handling, when viewed in the context of faith, suggests an encouraging message about trusting God even when the path is unclear. We must remember that we are not alone during these times; God is with us, guiding our steps. Allowing His presence into our situations can transform the frightening into the safe and the unknown into an adventure of faith.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Isaiah 43:2
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” – Isaiah 43:2
Psalm 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.” – Psalm 37:5
Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
Community and Snake Handling
Suffering, fear, and trials are often best faced in community. When considering snake handling, we should not forget the importance of encouragement from fellow believers. Together, we can lift each other up in faith, understanding that we are part of a much larger body. The Bible shows us that community is a support system for our spiritual journey, allowing us to share our experiences and deepen our collective trust in God.
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Acts 2:42
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” – Acts 2:42
Signs of Belief
Many believers view snake handling as a visible demonstration of their unwavering faith in God. The Bible teaches us that our faith will naturally lead to the manifestation of signs and wonders as part of our relationship with Him. While snake handling isn’t often practiced, acknowledging our belief through actions that glorify God is essential. We can find joy in exploring the signs God works in our lives each day.
Mark 16:20
“Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it.” – Mark 16:20
John 14:12
“Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” – John 14:12
Acts 4:30
“Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” – Acts 4:30
1 Corinthians 12:9-10
“To another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues.” – 1 Corinthians 12:9-10
Romans 15:18-19
“I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in leading the Gentiles to obey God by what I have said and done—by the power of signs and wonders, through the power of the Spirit of God.” – Romans 15:18-19
Spiritual Boldness
Embracing the idea of snake handling can also encourage us to be spiritually bold in our lives. The Holy Spirit empowers us to step out in faith and share His light with confidence, even when faced with dangers or adversities. As we navigate our faith journey, let’s remember that true boldness can be found in trusting God’s direction, allowing Him to guide us into places where our faith can shine brightly.
Acts 4:31
“After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.” – Acts 4:31
2 Timothy 1:7
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
Ephesians 6:19-20
“Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.” – Ephesians 6:19-20
Philippians 1:14
“And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.” – Philippians 1:14
Romans 1:16
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” – Romans 1:16
Spiritual Clarity and Discernment
Lastly, as we encounter topics such as snake handling, we should strive for clarity and discernment through God’s wisdom. The practice may have various interpretations and implications, and understanding this can help us engage thoughtfully with our faith. We can ask God to grant us understanding while being rooted in His teachings, gaining wisdom from His word so that our faith can be aligned with His will. The clearer we see in our lives, the more equipped we are to face any challenges that come our way.
1 John 4:1
“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” – 1 John 4:1
Proverbs 2:6
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” – Proverbs 2:6
Philippians 1:9-10
“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.” – Philippians 1:9-10
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5
Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” – Colossians 3:16
Final Thoughts
As we have explored the interesting and complex topic of snake handling within the Bible, we’ve discovered how it is deeply connected to our faith journey. Whether it is through faith tested, understanding God’s protection, the importance of community, or embracing spiritual boldness, we must remember that trusting God is central to our lives. It encourages us to reach deep into our hearts and seek His guidance amid trials. We encourage each other through community, friendship, and collective understanding. By doing so, we grow closer to God and closer to one another. May our faith be a testament of love and understanding, guiding us through every challenge we face.
Let’s continue to meditate on these verses and explore how they can shape our walk with God. Together, we will learn, grow, and trust in His magnificent plan. Amen!
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
