Poppycock, n; foolishness, nonsense, baloney, bunk, hokum; poppycock is the antithesis of truth.

We have all heard some form of it: “I don’t believe in Christianity. There are so many different interpretations of the Bible that none of it can be true.” Poppycock.

No single English translation can ever represent the original biblical languages perfectly. Why? A word in Hebrew, Greek, or Aramaic might not have an exact English word to match. And each language constructs sentences differently, which means a variety of words or reconstructed sentences will always be necessary.

When we notice what appears to be a contradiction between translations, instead of becoming argumentative, discouraged, or confused, we should get curious. Treat it as an invitation to go deeper. Read the full passage, and consider the context. Read it in different authoritative translations.

The Bible is the inspired, infallible, and authoritative Word of God, inerrant in its original writings. Any confusion is ours. Dig in. With the aid of the Holy Spirit, take it as an opportunity to come to know God better and to understand His plan more fully.