Facial Recognition in Scripture

Most people I hear talking about facial recognition are scared. Human beings have always had the tendency to nose into other people's business, but invading our private lives to control and make money has reached an alarming level. What a curse technology has become.

While we are offended and rightly so about this invasion of privacy, we should remember that others see more about us than we realize. Consider these types of facial recognition:

• “So the Lord said to Cain, ‘Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen?’” (Gen. 4:6). Anger shows on our face with some more than others, but this feeling inside affects our appearance. People recognize it instantly—“He’s mad about something.”

• “Therefore the king said to me, ‘Why is your face sad, since you are not sick? This is nothing but sorrow of heart.’” (Neh. 2:2). We may try to keep this feeling inside, but it shows. That is not necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes we don’t want others to see our weaknesses, but how can they help if they don’t know we’re hurting? That’s where facial recognition comes in.

• “And Jacob saw the countenance of Laban, and indeed it was not favorable toward him as before” (Gen. 31:2). Jacob could tell that Laban’s feelings toward him had changed. He resented Jacob and it showed. But this human software is not perfect. How many times have you thought someone was upset with you when he was bothered by something that had nothing to do with you?

• “A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance” (Prov. 15:13).  This one is probably the most easy to see—a child having fun, a mother holding her baby, a man and woman in love, a newborn Christian just after being baptized. Smile more. Everyone around you will see it, and when they know you smile even in the midst of adversity because of your faith, you will preach a powerful sermon.

• “A man’s wisdom makes his face shine, and the sternness of his face is changed” (Ecc. 8:1). “Wisdom gives bright eyes to a man, a gentle countenance, a noble expression; it refines and dignifies his external appearance and his demeanor” (Keil-Delitzsch, Commentary On Proverbs, p. 742).

• “Now it came to pass, when the time had come for Him to be received up, that He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem, and sent messengers before His face. And as they went, they entered a village of the Samaritans, to prepare for Him. But they did not receive Him, because His face was set for the journey to Jerusalem.” This was a look of determination. Jesus was focused. He knew His purpose on earth and never wavered. Others saw that look. They see the same in us when we have our hearts set on heaven.

If you feel uncomfortable because someone is using technology to spy on you, remember that those around you get a glimpse into your soul by what they see on your face. More than that, remember that God sees your soul without facial recognition.

Kerry

West End church of Christ • July 27, 2025