In the conflict between the wisdom of man and the Spirit of God, the latter always prevails. Sherem had hopes of shaking Jacob from the faith (Jacob 7:5), Nehor contended with Gideon but Gideon withstood him (Alma 1:7), and Zeezrom had hopes of deceiving Amulek but by the time he was finished speaking, Zeezrom began to tremble (Alma 11:46). In this same pattern, Abinadi did withstand them in all their questions, and did confound them in all their words.
Some of the most impressive stories of the wicked devices of mortal wisdom are found in the life of the Savior. Those who challenged Jesus of Nazareth were invariably humiliated by his wisdom. Some asked, Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath days? that they might accuse him (Matt 12:10). Others tried to trip him up with the question, Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not? (Matt 22:17) The chief priests were sure of their own authority. Therefore, the inquired, By what authority doest thou these things? And who gave thee this authority? (Matt 21:23) The Pharisees inquired, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? (Matt 19:3). In each of these instances the tempter was embarrassed by the wisdom of the Lord's answers. After several such episodes, they realized they were outmatched. From then on, they durst not ask him any question at all (Lu 20:40).