One thing that has upset me to no end is the way in which pastors and most people take the Bible and use verses to support their theology rather than allowing the Bible to stand on it’s own. Did you know that most of the verses you hear thrown around are taken way out of context? Like “If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.” (John 14:14) so let’s just add “In Jesus’ name” to the end of every prayer. Asking in his name means in his WILL. Do you think the things you are asking for are in his will? Who are you to presume you know his will. HE IS GOD! Or how about the prosperity gospel of “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10, ESV) The Greek translation means life upon life or eternal life, not that you are going to have great things here on THIS earth. These are all mistreated, misunderstood verses. The one that is currently on my mind is “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13, ESV) This is always fully taken out of context. Read Philippians 4. Paul was in prison, wrongly accused, and beaten to almost death, but he was still content. He was content in ALL things, when he was in good times and in bad, no matter what. This is what that verse means. In context, I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength (to take another translation) really means I can be CONTENT in all things no matter what situation I am in. It is not a call to “go for it” or “work tirelessly until you obtain your goal” or that Christ is going to give you strength in every area of your life. This is NOT what Paul is saying. One of my favorite quotes from my pastor, Pastor Mike Fabarez is “The best way to guard against heresy is to read the Bible thoroughly and often.”