Today we will talk about Bible verses about serpents. Many people are curious when they hear about serpents in the Bible. These verses can teach us important lessons, from understanding the nature of evil to recognizing the wisdom that God provides. It’s fascinating to explore how serpents symbolize different aspects of life in biblical times. So, as we delve deeper, let’s keep our hearts open and pay attention to the lessons God wants to share with us through His word.
Bible Verses About Serpents
Symbol of Temptation
In many parts of the Bible, serpents represent temptation. We can see this most clearly in the story of Adam and Eve, where the serpent persuades them to disobey God. This reminds us that often, temptation comes to us in subtle ways. When we face our own moments of temptation, we can learn from these scriptures. They provide a reminder of our need to stay close to God and resist the temptations that may lead us astray.
Genesis 3:1
“Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, ‘Did God really say, “You must not eat from any tree in the garden?”‘” – Genesis 3:1
Matthew 10:16
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” – Matthew 10:16
2 Corinthians 11:3
“But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ.” – 2 Corinthians 11:3
Revelation 12:9
“The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.” – Revelation 12:9
John 8:44
“You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him.” – John 8:44
God’s Authority Over Serpents
Throughout the scriptures, we see that God has authority and power over all creation, including serpents. These verses help us recognize that God is in control, even over those things that might seem daunting or frightening to us. It’s a powerful reminder that we can turn to Him for protection and guidance amid our fears and uncertainties.
Mark 16:18
“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 16:18
Luke 10:19
“I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” – Luke 10:19
Exodus 7:12
“Each one threw down his staff and it became a snake. But Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs.” – Exodus 7:12
Psalms 91:13
“You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.” – Psalms 91:13
Isaiah 11:8
“The infant will play near the cobra’s den, and the young child will put its hand into the viper’s nest.” – Isaiah 11:8
Serpents as Symbols of Healing
Interestingly, serpents are also linked to healing in the Bible. This can seem surprising, but it offers insights into how God can turn something that seems dangerous into a channel for good. These verses remind us of the blessings that can come from trusting in God’s plan, even in challenging circumstances. It encourages us to look beyond our fears and embrace the hope of healing.
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
John 3:14
“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up.” – John 3:14
James 5:14
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.” – James 5:14
Revelation 22:2
“Down the middle of the great street of the city, on each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.” – Revelation 22:2
Psalms 103:2-3
“Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.” – Psalms 103:2-3
Warnings Against Serpents
Some Bible verses remind us of the dangers that come with serpents. We often see warnings highlighting the need for vigilance. This theme teaches us to be cautious and discerning in our lives. It helps us understand that staying alert allows us to recognize potential dangers in our journey of faith. These reminders encourage us to stay grounded and seek God’s wisdom as we navigate life.
Luke 12:1
“Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” – Luke 12:1
Matthew 7:15
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.” – Matthew 7:15
Philippians 3:2
“Watch out for those dogs, those evildoers, those mutilators of the flesh.” – Philippians 3:2
Romans 16:17
“I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned.” – Romans 16:17
Proverbs 22:3
“The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.” – Proverbs 22:3
Serpents in Spiritual Warfare
Serpents also symbolize the spiritual battles we face. These verses remind us that we are in a constant struggle against evil forces that seek to lead us astray. Recognizing this empowers us to put on the full armor of God and stand firm in faith. We are not fighting these battles alone—God equips us with everything we need to overcome challenges.
Ephesians 6:12
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” – Ephesians 6:12
1 Peter 5:8
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” – 1 Peter 5:8
2 Timothy 4:18
“The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” – 2 Timothy 4:18
Revelation 20:2
“He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, and bound him for a thousand years.” – Revelation 20:2
James 4:7
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” – James 4:7
Lessons from the Serpent’s Wisdom
In some scriptures, we discover that serpents are depicted as wise creatures. This reminds us that we should also seek wisdom in our daily lives. It encourages us to be shrewd in our decisions and prudent in our actions. By embracing the wisdom that God offers, we can navigate the complexities of life with confidence and grace.
Proverbs 30:18-19
“There are three things that are too amazing for me, four that I do not understand: the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a snake on a rock, the way of a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a young woman.” – Proverbs 30:18-19
Matthew 10:16
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” – Matthew 10:16
Ecclesiastes 10:11
“If a snake bites before it is charmed, the charmer receives no fee.” – Ecclesiastes 10:11
Proverbs 1:5
“Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.” – Proverbs 1:5
Job 12:7-8
“But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you.” – Job 12:7-8
Sacred Symbols in the Bible
Now let’s explore how serpents serve as sacred symbols that represent various themes in our faith journey. They often point to profound truths about God’s character and His relationship with us. By reflecting on these symbols, we gain a deeper understanding of the significance of God’s guidance in our lives.
Numbers 21:8
“Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Make a snake and put it up on a pole; anyone who is bitten can look at it and live.'” – Numbers 21:8
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
Exodus 4:3
“The LORD said, ‘What is that in your hand?’ ‘A staff,’ he replied. The LORD said, ‘Throw it on the ground.’ Moses threw it on the ground and it became a snake, and he ran from it.” – Exodus 4:3
Matthew 12:34
“You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” – Matthew 12:34
Revelation 12:9
“The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, who leads the whole world astray.” – Revelation 12:9
God’s Protection Against Serpents
As we contemplate the verses about serpents, we also see God’s promise of protection over His people. In faith, we can cling to the assurance that God watches over us and keeps us safe from harm. These verses reassure us that even when we encounter dangers, we can take comfort in God’s unfailing love and protection.
Psalms 91:13-14
“You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent. Because he loves me,” says the LORD, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.” – Psalms 91:13-14
Luke 10:19
“I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” – Luke 10:19
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
Psalms 34:7
“The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.” – Psalms 34:7
Proverbs 3:23-24
“Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble; when you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.” – Proverbs 3:23-24
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on these Bible verses about serpents, we gain valuable insights into our spiritual journey. The serpent can symbolize temptation, wisdom, and spiritual warfare, reminding us of God’s authority and protection. We are encouraged to be vigilant, to seek wisdom, and to recognize the significance of God’s guidance in our lives. Together, we can embrace these lessons and grow in our faith. May we find strength and hope in God’s word as we navigate life’s complexities, knowing He is with us every step of the way.
When we contemplate the various meanings of serpents in the Bible, we can celebrate the multifaceted ways that God’s word applies to our lives—teaching us to be wise, courageous, and rooted in Him. As we continue to explore scripture, let’s commit to embracing these teachings and living them out in our daily walk of faith.
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
