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Does Mark 16:18 mean we must handle deadly snakes
to prove our faith In God, as some groups practice?
Answer # 10
No! This verse is a promise of protection, not a command, to those God has called to preach the Gospel (notice verse 15).
For example, God fulfilled this promise when the apostle Paul, gathering firewood, was bitten by a poisonous snake (Acts 28:1-6). It is important to realize that Paul was not purposely handling the snake. The incident was completely unexpected. God miraculously protected His servant.
Deliberately handling poisonous snakes or drinking deadly liquids, expecting God's protection, is contrary to the teachings of Christ, who said, "You shall not tempt the Lord your God" (verse 7).