Definition and Context:
Disputable matters, often referred to as "adiaphora" in theological terms, are issues or practices that are not explicitly addressed or commanded in Scripture, allowing for differences in personal conviction among believers. These matters are typically non-essential to the core tenets of the Christian faith and can include dietary choices, observance of certain days, and other personal lifestyle decisions.

Biblical References:
The concept of disputable matters is primarily addressed in the New Testament, particularly in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In Romans 14:1-4 , Paul writes, "Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on his opinions. One man's faith allows him to eat everything, but another man, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. The one who eats everything must not belittle the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted him. Who are you to judge someone else's servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand."

In this passage, Paul emphasizes the importance of accepting fellow believers despite differences in personal convictions regarding disputable matters. The focus is on maintaining unity and avoiding judgment over non-essential issues.

Principles for Handling Disputable Matters:
1. Acceptance and Non-Judgment: Believers are called to accept one another without passing judgment on disputable matters. Romans 14:10 states, "Why, then, do you judge your brother? Or why do you belittle your brother? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat."

2. Personal Conviction: Each believer is encouraged to be fully convinced in their own mind regarding their stance on disputable matters. Romans 14:5 says, "One person regards a certain day above the others, while someone else considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind."

3. Avoiding Stumbling Blocks: Christians are urged to avoid causing others to stumble in their faith by their actions. Romans 14:13 advises, "Therefore let us stop judging one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way."

4. Pursuing Peace and Edification: The ultimate goal in handling disputable matters is to pursue peace and mutual edification within the body of Christ. Romans 14:19 encourages, "So then, let us pursue what leads to peace and to mutual edification."

Examples of Disputable Matters:
· Dietary Practices: As seen in Romans 14, some believers may choose to abstain from certain foods, while others feel free to eat all things. This is a classic example of a disputable matter where personal conviction plays a significant role.

· Observance of Days: Some Christians may observe specific religious or cultural days, while others treat all days the same. Paul addresses this in Romans 14:5, highlighting the importance of individual conviction.

· Cultural Practices: Practices such as dress codes, styles of worship, and other cultural expressions can also fall under disputable matters, where Scripture does not provide explicit commands.

Conclusion:
Disputable matters require a balance of personal conviction and communal love. Believers are called to respect each other's differences in these areas, focusing on unity and the edification of the church body. The guiding principle is love, as Paul concludes in Romans 14:15 , "If your brother is distressed by what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy your brother, for whom Christ died."