Twisting scripture is a serious concern addressed throughout the Bible and other sacred writings. Scripture warns against adding to God’s word, misusing it to trap others, or manipulating it for personal gain. At the same time, scripture teaches that God Himself may reveal more of His word according to His divine will. Understanding this balance is essential to reading scripture correctly and faithfully.
God Forbids Adding to or Diminishing Scripture
Deuteronomy 4:2 gives a clear commandment: believers must not add to or take away from the word God has revealed. Scripture is delivered to prophets by commandment, and prophets are not authorized to insert their own ideas. God’s word is sacred, intentional, and complete as revealed.
This principle establishes an important boundary. While individuals may interpret scripture, they are not permitted to modify it to fit personal beliefs or agendas.
What the Book of Mormon Teaches About Twisting Scripture
Alma 30:44 teaches that creation itself testifies of God, alongside the scriptures already given. The message is direct: the scriptures are laid before us, and twisting them to deny truth is dishonest. When scripture is clear, attempting to reinterpret it to support a false conclusion becomes an act of deception.
Scripture misuse often stems not from lack of access, but from unwillingness to accept what God has already revealed.
How Scripture Can Be Misunderstood
Misinterpretation is a recurring theme in scripture. In 3 Nephi 1:24, some attempted to prove by scripture that the law of Moses no longer needed to be observed. The text clarifies that they erred because they did not fully understand the scriptures.
This example shows that misunderstanding scripture can lead people to false conclusions, even when their arguments appear scriptural on the surface.
Using Scripture to Trap or Manipulate
In Alma 11:21, a man skilled in deceptive tactics attempted to question Amulek in order to trap him. His intention was not to learn truth, but to manipulate scripture for harmful purposes. This highlights the importance of examining intent when scripture is shared.
A similar rebuke appears in Mosiah 12:27–29, where priests were condemned for claiming to teach the law of Moses while failing to live it. They used scripture to elevate themselves, pursue riches, and justify sin. Their misuse required correction by a prophet.
In the New Testament, Matthew 22:15 describes how the Pharisees sought to entangle Jesus in His words. Even those deeply familiar with scripture can misuse it when their goal is pride, control, or deception.
Scripture That Refers to Missing Scripture
An often-overlooked topic is scripture that references other inspired writings no longer available. The Bible itself acknowledges the existence of sacred records that have been lost over time.
Examples from the Old Testament include the Book of the Covenant (Exodus 24:7), the Book of the Wars of the Lord (Numbers 21:14), the Book of Jasher (Joshua 10:13), and records of prophets such as Nathan, Gad, and Iddo. These references indicate that God revealed far more than what is currently preserved in the Bible.
Missing Scripture in the New Testament
The New Testament also references writings we no longer possess. Matthew 2:23 mentions a prophecy about the Messiah being called a Nazarene, yet no such prophecy appears in the Old Testament record we have today.
Paul references earlier letters in 1 Corinthians 5:9 and Colossians 4:16 that are not included in the biblical canon. These passages confirm that inspired writings existed beyond what has been preserved.
References to Missing Scripture in the Book of Mormon
The Book of Mormon likewise references prophets and writings not found in the Bible, such as Zenos, Zenock, and Neum. Jacob 5 preserves an extensive allegory from the prophet Zenos, even though no separate record of his writings remains.
2 Nephi 29 explains that God has spoken to many nations and commanded them to write His words. While humanity currently possesses only some of these records, others exist and may yet be revealed.
God Can Still Reveal More Scripture
2 Nephi 29 provides a powerful discourse on continuing revelation. God rebukes the idea that having a Bible means no more scripture can exist. He declares that He speaks to all nations and brings forth His word according to His purpose.
While humans are forbidden from adding to scripture on their own, God Himself is not limited. He may reveal more of His word whenever He chooses.
How to Avoid Twisting Scripture
Scripture encourages humility, balance, and spiritual guidance. 2 Corinthians 13:1 teaches that truth is established by multiple witnesses, reminding readers not to rely on isolated verses without broader context.
Rather than approaching scripture intellectually alone, believers are encouraged to read with a soft heart, an open mind, and reliance on the Spirit. Understanding scripture requires more than knowledge—it requires humility, prayer, and a desire to be taught by God.
Conclusion
The Bible strongly warns against twisting scripture, whether by adding to it, misinterpreting it, or using it to manipulate others. At the same time, scripture teaches that God continues to speak and reveal His word according to His will. Faithful scripture study requires honesty, context, humility, and spiritual guidance.
Next, we will explore another important question: what does the Bible say about memorizing scripture, and whether there is a command or blessing associated with committing God’s word to memory.
