His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains that the verse “If they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them” (Mark 16:18) should not be taken literally or used as a challenge to God, but understood in light of the whole Scripture and Christ’s teaching.

🔹 Not Tempting God:
The Pope refers to Satan’s temptation of Christ on the mountain, when he told Him to throw Himself down so the angels would save Him. Christ replied, “You shall not tempt the Lord your God.”
Therefore, no one should deliberately put themselves in danger and expect God to intervene — that would be testing, not trusting, God.

🔹 Whole-Scripture Understanding:
A single verse cannot be isolated from the rest of the Bible. Scripture teaches us to be cautious and not to cast ourselves into harm’s way.

🔹 Proper Application of Faith:
The Pope notes that God may miraculously protect someone, as in the case of St. George who was unharmed by poison — but this happens by God’s will, not by human challenge.

🔹 Faith Message:
True faith is not about proving God’s power but about trusting His care quietly and humbly. Even Christ refused to test God; we must follow His example.

🔹 Spiritual Dimension:
Believers should live wisely, trusting God’s protection without demanding signs. Divine protection is a gift of faith, not a result of daring tests.