Why Difficult Bible Passages Matter
Have you ever read a Bible verse and thought, What does that even mean? You’re not alone—and you’re not failing. Many of us have wrestled with difficult Bible passages that seem confusing, contradictory, or even unsettling. The truth is, the Bible is a divine book written across centuries, cultures, and languages. So, naturally, some parts are hard to grasp at first glance.
Even seasoned believers encounter passages that leave them scratching their heads. And that’s okay. Wrestling with Scripture isn’t a sign of weak faith—it’s a sign of growing faith.
In this guide, we’ll walk together through the most helpful tips and tools for navigating difficult Bible passages. We’ll learn how to understand context, ask better questions, use study tools wisely, and rely on the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
Along the way, we’ll also find encouragement, not frustration. Because the goal isn’t just knowledge — it’s deeper relationship with the Author of the Word.
So let’s dive in. Let’s move past confusion and toward clarity. With the right approach, even the most difficult Bible passages can become sources of insight, transformation, and joy.
Understand the Nature of Difficult Bible Passages
Not every verse in the Bible is simple or straightforward. Some make us pause, scratch our heads, or even feel uneasy. These are what we call difficult Bible passages. They challenge our understanding and stretch our faith.
So, what makes a passage “difficult”? First, the language can be unfamiliar. The Bible was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. As a result, translation can affect how we read certain words or ideas. Second, cultural context matters. Many verses speak to customs, laws, or situations that don’t match our modern lives. Without background, we miss meaning. Third, some passages raise theological questions. For instance, topics like election, judgment, or God’s sovereignty can stir deep reflection—and disagreement.
We also encounter difficult Bible passages when commands seem harsh or unclear. Think of certain Old Testament laws in Leviticus. Or consider the rich symbolism in Revelation. What do the beasts, trumpets, and bowls really mean?
At times, verses may appear to contradict each other. One passage might stress grace, while another emphasizes obedience. Understanding how they work together takes time and prayer. Lastly, some texts deal with hard-to-accept truths. Stories of suffering, divine wrath, or human failure remind us that Scripture is honest and raw.
But we don’t have to avoid these verses. Instead, we can lean in—ready to learn, grow, and be challenged. Difficult Bible passages aren’t roadblocks. They’re invitations to dig deeper and know God more fully.
Start with Context — Historical, Literary, & Biblical
One of the best ways to understand difficult Bible passages is by starting with context. Without it, we can easily misread meaning.
Historical context helps us ask: Who wrote this? When? And to whom? Knowing the background gives clarity to the message. For example, Paul’s letters take on new depth when we understand the issues facing each church.
Literary context asks what kind of writing we’re reading. Is it poetry, prophecy, wisdom, law, or narrative? Each genre has its own rules. We don’t read Psalms like we read Leviticus. Recognizing genre helps us avoid confusion and misapplication.
Biblical context means placing the passage within the whole story of Scripture. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible tells one unified story. So, every verse connects to something bigger.
Let’s apply this with Revelation 3:16, where Jesus says:
So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.” (Revelation 3:16, ESV)
This verse can seem harsh at first glance. But with context, it becomes clearer. Historically, Jesus spoke to the church in Laodicea. That city had poor water—neither hot like nearby Hierapolis nor cold like Colossae. So “lukewarm” wasn’t about spiritual passion, but usefulness.
When we read the verses before and after, we see Jesus calling His people to repentance and renewed purpose. The passage is corrective—but full of love. Reading a few verses before and after is always helpful. It keeps us anchored and avoids misunderstanding.
When facing difficult Bible passages, context is our compass. It points us toward truth and helps us hear what God is really saying.
Use Scripture to Interpret Scripture
When we’re faced with difficult Bible passages, one of the most helpful tools we have is the Bible itself. Scripture often explains Scripture. Clearer verses can shed light on the ones we find confusing.
This approach works because God’s Word is unified. Though written by many authors over centuries, the message holds together. Major themes—like grace, judgment, covenant, and kingdom—flow from beginning to end. When we trace these threads, we gain better understanding.
Take the idea of faith and works. At first glance, Romans 3:28 and James 2:24 seem to disagree.
For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.” (Romans 3:28, ESV)
“You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.” (James 2:24, ESV)
Are they contradicting each other? Not at all. Paul focuses on salvation’s foundation—faith, not law. James, meanwhile, highlights what real faith looks like—active, not empty. When read together, they offer a fuller picture of saving faith.
That’s why comparing Scripture with Scripture is key. When a verse seems unclear, ask: What else does the Bible say about this topic?
Thankfully, difficult Bible passages rarely stand alone. God has given us the whole counsel of His Word. As we connect the dots, truth becomes clearer and confusion fades.
We may still have questions, but we also gain confidence. God’s Word doesn’t contradict—it completes. And that gives us a solid place to stand.
Know the Original Audience and Language
To better understand difficult Bible passages, we need to know who the original audience was—and what language they spoke. The Old Testament was mostly written in Hebrew, with some Aramaic. The New Testament was written in Greek. While most of us read in English, translations sometimes miss the richness of the original words.
Word meanings can shift across time and culture. That’s why one English word might not fully capture the meaning of the original. A great example is the Greek words agape and phileo. Both mean “love,” but with different depth. Agape refers to sacrificial, divine love. Phileo is more about friendship and affection.
If we don’t slow down, we might miss the intended meaning. Even small words can make a big difference. For example, in John 21, Jesus and Peter use both agape and phileo — but we only see “love” in English.
We also need to avoid reading our modern assumptions into ancient texts. The original audience lived in a different world—economically, culturally, and spiritually. Their questions, struggles, and customs shaped how they understood Scripture.
Thankfully, we don’t need to become language experts. Free tools like Blue Letter Bible and BibleHub can help us explore the original words and meanings. Just a few clicks can bring new clarity.
So when we come across difficult Bible passages, let’s take a moment. Let’s step into the ancient world, listen closely, and let the original meaning speak clearly.
Ask the Right Questions When You Read
When we approach difficult Bible passages, asking the right questions can open the door to deeper understanding. Curiosity is a gift, not a threat.
Rather than feeling frustrated, we can pause and reflect. Here’s a simple checklist to guide us:
- What is the main point of this passage?
- What do I learn about God—His character, His actions, His will?
- What does this reveal about humanity—our needs, struggles, or calling?
- Is this passage descriptive (telling what happened) or prescriptive (commanding what we should do)?
By walking through these questions, we shift from confusion to clarity. We don’t have to solve everything at once. But we do need to stay engaged. Even difficult Bible passages become more approachable when we slow down and ask thoughtful questions. This practice isn’t about doubting the Bible—it’s about drawing closer to its message.
Each question helps us uncover something new. We learn, grow, and become better students of God’s Word. So let’s keep our hearts open and our questions ready. As we dig deeper, we’ll discover more than just answers—we’ll encounter truth that transforms.
Use Reliable Bible Study Tools and Resources
When we’re faced with difficult Bible passages, we don’t have to figure it all out on our own. Thankfully, we have reliable tools that can help.
Commentaries are a great place to start. Trusted sources like Matthew Henry, The Bible Knowledge Commentary, or the ESV Study Bible offer helpful insights from scholars. They explain cultural context, word meanings, and theological themes. While not perfect, these guides give us clarity where we might feel stuck.
Concordances are another valuable resource. They help us find where specific words or topics appear throughout Scripture. This allows us to connect verses and see how different parts of the Bible relate.
Study Bibles combine several tools into one. They often include verse-by-verse notes, cross-references, maps, timelines, and helpful introductions to each book. The NIV Study Bible and ESV Study Bible are both great options.
However, we should be careful. A quick Google search can lead us into confusion or poor teaching. Not every opinion online is grounded in sound doctrine.
Thankfully, many trustworthy tools are available for free or at low cost. Websites like Blue Letter Bible, BibleGateway, and BibleHub offer commentaries, dictionaries, and concordances. For those wanting more, paid apps like Logos or Olive Tree provide deeper study options.
When dealing with difficult Bible passages, using solid tools makes all the difference. These resources equip us to study with confidence, clarity, and joy.
Lean on the Holy Spirit & Christian Community
We’re not meant to study God’s Word alone. When we face difficult Bible passages, we need both the Holy Spirit and each other. Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would guide us into all truth (John 16:13). That means we’re never reading alone. As we pray and study, the Spirit helps us understand, convict, and apply God’s Word to our lives.
But the Spirit also works through people. That’s why we need mature believers and Bible study groups. When we share insights, ask questions, and learn together, we grow stronger in our faith.
Sometimes, another perspective is all it takes to unlock a verse that confused us for years. A trusted friend or teacher can shed light we didn’t see on our own. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by difficult Bible passages. Maybe we’ve read them again and again without clarity. But we don’t need to give up. Instead, let’s pray for wisdom, invite the Spirit to teach us, and reach out to others in the Body of Christ.
God didn’t design us to go it alone. Through His Spirit and His people, He equips us to understand—even the hardest parts of Scripture.
Trust the Process: Growth Comes with Time
Understanding difficult Bible passages doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, humility, and prayer—just like learning a new language or skill.
We wouldn’t expect to master a musical instrument in one day. In the same way, growing in God’s Word takes steady practice. Sometimes we’ll wrestle with a verse for weeks before it clicks—and that’s okay.
Instead of seeing difficulty as a barrier, let’s view it as an invitation. Each confusing passage is a chance to grow deeper in truth. Questions aren’t the enemy of faith. In fact, they often lead us closer to the heart of God. When we keep asking, seeking, and knocking, the Holy Spirit will faithfully guide us.
So let’s give ourselves grace. We don’t need to understand everything at once. As we stay in the Word, we’ll grow stronger. Even difficult Bible passages can become places of joy and discovery.
You Can Understand Difficult Bible Passages
Difficult Bible passages don’t have to stay confusing. With the right approach, we can understand them—and even enjoy the process. We’ve learned to start with context, ask the right questions, and lean on helpful tools. We’ve seen the value of community and the power of the Holy Spirit. Each of these steps helps us grow in wisdom and confidence.
So let’s not avoid the tough verses. Instead, let’s face them with curiosity and faith, knowing God wants us to understand His Word. Pick one difficult Bible passage today. Use what we’ve covered—check the context, compare Scripture, and ask good questions. Don’t forget to pray and invite the Spirit to guide you.
Understanding takes time, but every step is worth it. Together, we can grow in faith and insight—one passage at a time. Let’s dive in and discover what God has waiting for us.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Difficult Bible Passages
1. Why are some Bible passages so hard to understand? Some passages are difficult due to ancient language, cultural differences, or deep theological truths. Understanding takes time, context, and prayer.
2. What should I do if a passage seems to contradict another? Start by comparing context and genre. Use Scripture to interpret Scripture. Often, what looks like a contradiction is actually a fuller picture.
3. Do I need to know Greek or Hebrew to understand difficult Bible passages? Not at all. Helpful tools like Blue Letter Bible or BibleHub give easy access to original word meanings without needing to be an expert.
4. Is it wrong to question or wrestle with Scripture? No! Asking questions is part of spiritual growth. Many faithful believers wrestle with tough passages and find deeper faith through the process.
5. How can I stay motivated when I feel stuck? Lean on prayer, trusted study tools, and community. Take breaks when needed—but keep coming back with a heart ready to learn.
