14 Phrases in Scripture You Should Stop and Pay Attention To

“All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16)

Throughout Scripture, there are certain phrases that, when we read them, should make us pause and take a closer look. These aren’t just words or teachings that pass by quickly, they’re divine signals, highlighting crucial truths and calls to action. Let’s dive into 14 of these powerful phrases that, when spoken by Christ or Paul, demand our full attention.

1. "Truly, truly, I say to you" / "Verily, verily, I say unto you"

As we mentioned, this one is often used by Jesus, especially when He’s about to say something incredibly important. It’s a way of emphasizing the truthfulness and authority of what’s coming next. When Jesus uses this, He’s saying, “This is something you must hear.”

2. "He who has ears to hear, let him hear"

This powerful phrase, spoken by Christ, is found six times across the Gospels. It’s not just a call to physically listen, but a challenge to pay deep attention to the truths He’s teaching. Whenever Christ uses this phrase, it’s a reminder that His words require more than just hearing—they demand understanding and transformation. This phrase urges us to not just listen passively, but to engage with the message on a heart level, allowing it to change us.

3. "I say to you"

Jesus often uses this phrase, especially when challenging popular beliefs or teaching something radical. It’s His way of saying, “Forget what you’ve heard before — this is what God truly says.” “You have heard… but I say to you” (Matthew 5:22)

4. "Come follow Me"

This was Christ’s call to His disciples, but it’s also an ongoing invitation to all who would be His followers. It’s a declaration that following Jesus means living a life of action, commitment, and purpose.

5. "Love one another"

Jesus repeatedly taught the importance of loving one another, especially in the Gospel of John. It’s not just a passing command but the heart of His message. "By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:35).

6. "Do not be afraid" / "Do not fear"

This phrase, used multiple times by Jesus, is a reminder that in times of uncertainty, distress, or even facing challenges in faith, we are to trust in Him, knowing He is in control. "Do not fear" points us toward a place of peace, security, and faith.

7. "Let not your hearts be troubled"

Jesus said this in John 14:1, offering comfort to His disciples before He would be crucified. It’s a call to trust in Him even when the world seems to be falling apart. It’s a reminder that our hearts can rest in the peace of God, no matter what.

8. "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand"

Both Jesus and John the Baptist used this phrase to announce the coming of God’s kingdom. Repentance is the essential first step in entering into a relationship with God, and this phrase underscores the urgency of responding to His call.

9. "Take heart"

Jesus uses this to encourage His followers when they’re facing challenges. It’s an invitation to find courage in His presence, reminding us that He’s always with us. "Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid" (Matthew 14:27).

10. "Be of good cheer"

Another phrase Jesus uses to offer encouragement and strength. It’s a way of saying, “Even when things seem hard, remember, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

11. "In the same way"

Paul uses this in his letters, especially in relation to how believers should behave or live in accordance with Christ. It's a reminder of the way Christ lived and the way we are called to live.

12. "I urge you"

Paul uses this phrase in several of his letters, urging believers to live a certain way or pursue a particular course of action. It’s a strong call to action, with the weight of his apostleship behind it.

13. "For this is the will of God"

Paul often includes this phrase to explain that what he’s instructing is not just his opinion but God’s will for His people. When he says this, it’s like saying, “This is non-negotiable, and you need to understand it deeply.”

14. “Your faith has made you well” (Matthew 9:22, Mark 5:34, Luke 8:48)

This phrase appears when Christ heals someone or forgives their sins, emphasizing that it’s not just physical healing but the faith in Him that makes the healing possible. It teaches the importance of belief in God’s power to transform lives.

These phrases aren’t just repeated—they’re meant to stop us in our tracks. They call us to listen closely, not skim past. Often, they lead into truths, commands, or comfort that shape how we live and how we respond to God’s voice.

“Pay attention and listen to the sayings of the wise, And apply your heart to my knowledge.” (Proverbs 22:17)

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

“What I write is not for everyone, but what I write is meant for someone.” – Dean Butler

I am the author of two books: Embracing God's Wisdom: A Journey of Faith and Reflection and Embracing God’s Wisdom: Paul’s Commands for Victorious Living. Both are available on Amazon.

This work may be shared for ministry or personal use, but please credit the author when doing so. © Dean Butler – Dean’s Bible Blog. All rights reserved.

Please reach out at: hopeinchrist2024@yahoo.com

“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service.” (1 Timothy 1:12)