What does the Bible say about snake handling?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible does not command believers to handle snakes as a test of faith, but calls them to trust God without presumption. Mark 16:17-18 describes signs accompanying the apostolic gospel witness, including protection from serpents, not a ritual believers should seek out. Jesus rejects deliberately testing God in Matthew 4:7, which governs how such promises are received. Christians are united to Christ in Romans 7:4 and serve Him through ordinary obedience, not dangerous displays. Isaiah 41:10 assures God’s sustaining presence amid real fear and danger. Our confidence rests in God’s providence and Christ’s care, while we avoid tempting the Lord.
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Mark 16:18
they will take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it will in no way hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover."
- Mark 16:17-18
[17] These signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new languages; [18] they will take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it will in no way hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover."
- 2 Peter 3:10
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will be dissolved with fervent heat, and the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.
- Matthew 4:7
Jesus said to him, "Again, it is written, 'You shall not test the Lord, your God.'"
- Romans 7:4
Therefore, my brothers, you also were made dead to the law through the body of Christ, that you would be joined to another, to him who was raised from the dead, that we might bring forth fruit to God.
- Isaiah 41:10
Don't you be afraid, for I am with you; don't be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you; yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.
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