Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

A common question among Christians is why the Bible, if intended to foster a relationship with God, contains passages that are difficult to understand. The complexity of some parts of the Bible can be puzzling for those who believe in its perspicuity, or clarity in essential teachings. This was a central belief among Protestant reformers and their followers as a counterpoint to the Catholic Magisterium.

The challenges in understanding the Bible have been acknowledged even by biblical figures like St. Peter, who noted that some writings of St. Paul are "hard to understand." Various authors have explored these difficulties extensively, such as Trent Horn in his book "Hard Sayings: A Catholic Approach to Answering Bible Difficulties."

Several factors contribute to the perceived difficulties within the Bible. Some arise from the text itself, while others stem from readers' limitations. Issues include apparent contradictions in details about events or people and discrepancies with scientific or historical facts. Moreover, there are moral concerns when certain narratives seem to present questionable role models.

Readers' own deficiencies also play a role; these might include unfamiliarity with biblical genres or narratives and personal biases shaped by contemporary culture. Sometimes it is suggested that understanding may be withheld until one is obedient to already understood teachings.

Historically, interpreters like Origen and St. Augustine engaged deeply with such complexities long before modern times. St. Augustine viewed these challenges as divinely intended to subdue pride through diligent study and keep intellects engaged by alternating between plain and obscure passages.

Accordingly, the difficulties found in scripture serve more than just an educational purpose; they aim to cultivate virtues like faith, patience, worship, humility—encouraging believers not merely towards intellectual growth but towards spiritual development.

Encounters with challenging scripture passages can thus lead believers closer to God by prompting them to recognize their own limitations and encouraging trust without complete understanding.

The overarching message is that while not every passage needs resolution immediately, faith seeks comprehension continuously underpinned by belief in divine truth as professed by the Church.