Internal Faith vs. External Observance: Is There a Contradiction?
In this article, you will learn how Deuteronomy 11:18 contradicts Matthew 23:5, Jeremiah 31:33, Romans 2:29, Matthew 6:1 and Colossians 2:14. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The Bible, though a cohesive spiritual guide, sometimes presents varying perspectives, leading to intriguing questions about faith. One such instance is the contrast between Deuteronomy 11:18 and other scriptures regarding how believers are to keep God’s commandments—whether internally or externally.
Deuteronomy 11:18 instructs believers to remember God’s words by keeping them physically close, like a visible sign that guides their daily actions. This is akin to tying a string around your finger to remind you of something important. This outward act symbolizes the importance of making God's commandments a part of everyday life.
In stark contrast, Matthew 23:5 criticizes those who emphasize external religious displays without sincere internal belief, cautioning against superficial observance. This critique echoes in Matthew 6:1, which warns against practicing faith for public applause. Here, the emphasis is on authentic, internal devotion rather than outward appearance.
Adding another layer, Jeremiah 31:33 describes a future where God will write His law upon hearts directly, negating the need for external symbols, suggesting an interior transformation. Similarly, Romans 2:29 highlights the importance of inward spirituality, valuing a heart-based faith over mere adherence to visible rituals.
Moreover, Colossians 2:14 tells of Christ setting aside the written code by His sacrifice. This passage challenges the necessity of binding physical commandments as outlined in Deuteronomy, proposing a faith that transcends written laws.
These differences provoke thought: Is true faith evidenced by external reminders, or is it the deep internalization of God's word? Perhaps, the answer lies in blending these perspectives, harmonizing external practices with sincere inward devotion, just as a tree's unseen roots bring stability and nutrients to the flourishing branches above.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Deuteronomy 11:18 | Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as frontlets between your eyes. |
| 2. | Matthew 23:5 | But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, [phylacteries: pieces of parchment containing sentences of the law] |
| 3. | Jeremiah 31:33 | But this [shall be] the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people. |
| 4. | Romans 2:29 | But he [is] a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision [is that] of the heart, in the spirit, [and] not in the letter; whose praise [is] not of men, but of God. |
| 5. | Matthew 6:1 | Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. [alms: or, righteousness] [of your: or, with your] |
| 6. | Colossians 2:14 | Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; |