⏱️ Estimated Reading Time: 3 min read
When Scripture Confuses Us: Difficult Passages Explained
Author: Dave Jenkins
Show: Contending for the Word Q&A
Date: April 8, 2026
Show Summary
What should Christians do when they encounter a passage of Scripture that seems confusing or difficult to understand?
In this episode of Contending for the Word Q&A, Dave Jenkins answers a question many believers have asked at some point in their walk with Christ: how should Christians respond when they encounter a passage they do not understand?
Scripture itself acknowledges that some passages are difficult (2 Peter 3:16), yet God’s Word remains clear, sufficient, and trustworthy. Rather than responding with discouragement, panic, or speculation, Christians are called to approach difficult passages with humility, patience, prayer, careful study, and trust in the God who speaks through His Word.
Dave explains how context, comparison with other passages, and wise help from faithful teachers can aid believers as they seek to understand difficult texts without abandoning discernment or forcing conclusions.
Audio Player
Video Player
Key Scriptures
- Deuteronomy 29:29
- Psalm 119:130
- 2 Peter 3:16
Episode Highlights
- Why some passages of Scripture are difficult to understand
- Why confusion does not mean a lack of sincerity or faith
- The importance of slowing down and studying the context
- How Scripture interprets Scripture
- Why believers should seek help wisely without surrendering discernment
- How God uses difficult passages to deepen humility, patience, and trust
Full Article
When Scripture confuses us, Christians should respond with humility, patience, and careful study. Rather than panicking or forcing conclusions, believers are called to examine the context, compare Scripture with Scripture, seek wise help, and trust that God gives understanding over time.
Christians who are reading the Bible carefully will eventually come across a passage that feels difficult, confusing, or unclear. That experience can be discouraging, especially for believers who sincerely want to understand God’s Word and obey it faithfully.
But Scripture itself acknowledges that some passages are hard to understand. In 2 Peter 3:16, Peter openly says this while also warning that the ignorant and unstable twist difficult passages to their own destruction.
Deuteronomy 29:29 reminds us that God has revealed everything we need for faith and godliness, while the secret things belong to Him.
Psalm 119:130 reminds us that understanding often comes over time as God unfolds His Word to His people.
First, do not panic. Encountering a difficult passage does not mean Scripture has failed.
Second, slow down and revisit the context.
Third, let Scripture interpret Scripture.
Fourth, seek help wisely without surrendering discernment.
Understanding grows over time. God’s Word is not meant to confuse His people but to lead them into truth.
The same God who inspired His Word is faithful to guide His people into truth, patiently and graciously.
Related Resources
Call to Action
Thank you for listening to or watching Contending for the Word Q&A.
Be sure to subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts, subscribe on YouTube, and follow Servants of Grace on social media. Stay in God’s Word, seek understanding humbly, and stand firm in His truth.
