The Importance of Understanding the Bible Amidst Viral TikTok Theology

With TikTok theology gaining millions of views, it’s crucial for Christians to grasp what the Bible genuinely conveys.

In a recent episode of “Live Free,” hosts Josh Howerton, Paul Cunningham, and Carlos Erazo discussed a viral TikTok video in which the creator asserts that the Bible contains numerous contradictions.

The video begins with a series of claims: “The Bible states that God is all-knowing. Psalm 147:5 mentions His infinite understanding, while First John 3:20 and Matthew 10:30 emphasize that God knows everything, even the number of hairs on our heads.” However, the creator argues that in Genesis 18, God mentions going down to Sodom and Gomorrah to find out about the people’s sins. “If He’s all-knowing, He wouldn’t need to do that. Also, if He’s all-present, He’d already be there,” he contends.

He follows this up with another point regarding the Resurrection account. “In Matthew and Luke, the women at the empty tomb rush to tell everyone what they found, but in Mark, they’re too scared to share the news,” he points out.

His last argument challenges the definition of love in the Bible. “It says, ‘God is love,’ but also describes love as patient and kind, without jealousy or boasting. Yet God is described as a jealous God. So, how can God be love if love isn’t jealous?”

Cunningham addresses the creator’s point about love and jealousy, explaining that the term “jealous” can vary in meaning based on context. “Jealousy in some situations is appropriate, like a husband feeling jealous if his wife were to cheat, but not if she simply greets a male colleague,” he illustrates. He clarifies that when the Bible refers to God’s jealousy, it often relates to His relationship with Israel, likening this to a bride giving love to someone else.

Erazo then tackles the argument about God needing to visit Sodom and Gomorrah. He uses an analogy that many might relate to: playing hide-and-seek with a child. “I often play with my son. I know where he is, even when I ask, ‘Where are you?’” he explains, suggesting that when God appears uncertain in the scriptures, it’s part of a deeper understanding that transcends our grasp of His nature.

Cunningham also introduces the idea of “anthropomorphic language,” explaining that God uses familiar terms to help us comprehend aspects of divinity that are otherwise beyond our understanding.

Above all, both pastors encourage believers not to let perceived contradictions shake their faith. “Don’t panic when confronted with questions you’ve never considered,” Cunningham advises. “There are thoughtful responses available from those who have contemplated these matters more deeply.”

For a more comprehensive look at their responses to TikTok theology, watch the full episode above.