When you face controversies and strife

“But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and strife and disputes about the Law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.” (Titus 3:9)

Avoid foolish arguments and strife

In the early church, religious people found many things to disagree on and to argue about. Two examples mentioned above were hot issues of that day, genealogies and the Law. The passage warned to avoid arguing about such foolish things, proclaiming them to be “unprofitable and worthless”. Not much has changed over the following centuries! Today, people still argue over many unprofitable and foolish controversies. Christians should never partake in vitriol matters, yet they do! Social media is aflame with it! The Bible has many warnings on the subject to be taken seriously. 

Be on guard!

“O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you, avoiding worldly and empty chatter and the opposing arguments of what is falsely called ‘knowledge’.” (1 Tim. 6:20)

Refuse foolish and ignorant speculations

“But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels.” (2 Tim. 2:23)

Turn away from those who cause dissensions 

“Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them.” (Rom. 16:17)

Avoid worldly empty chatter

“But avoid worldly and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness,” (2 Tim. 2:16)

Therefore…

“But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness.” (1 Tim. 6:11)

“Avoiding strife brings a man honor, but every fool is quarrelsome.” (Prov. 29:3)

Quote:

“Blessed are the peacemakers, and one sure way of peacemaking is to let the fire of contention alone. Neither fan it, nor stir it, nor add fuel to it, but let it go out by itself. Begin your ministry with one blind eye and one deaf ear.” - Charles Spurgeon