I begin with this famous adage because it is the most infamous and perhaps the most widely believed “Bible urban legend” here in America. I’m continually amazed at the people (even seminary graduates!) who insist that these words come straight from the Bible! The truth is Benjamin Franklin penned them for his 1736 edition of “Poor Richard’s Almanack”. Ben Franklin, for all his innovative brilliance and folksy wisdom (a mixed bag in his almanacs!) wasn’t even a Christian, but a deist. He, however, was reportedly fond of George Whitefield’s preaching though toward the end of his life, when asked if he believed that Jesus Christ was the Son of God, he replied, “No.” When asked why, he responded that he had never looked into it.
Not only is this line not a quote from the Bible, but the concept is in large part, opposite what the New Testament teaches.
“While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
“ For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- not by works, so that no one can boast.” (Ephesians 2:8,9)
If our salvation were based on our own ability to help ourselves, we’d be in serious trouble!
“ for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:23
And our reliance on God’s help doesn’t stop at salvation but includes every breath we take and our daily provision. (Matthew 6:32-34) Besides, God is far more interested in our helping others than in our helping ourselves. (Matthew 25:31-46)
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