Topical Encyclopedia Strife is identified in the Bible as a work of the flesh, a manifestation of human nature that is contrary to the Spirit of God. It is often associated with conflict, discord, and contention among individuals or groups. The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Galatians, lists strife among the "acts of the flesh" that are evident in those who do not live by the Spirit. Galatians 5:19-21 states, "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage; rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God."The presence of strife is indicative of a life not surrendered to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is often fueled by pride, selfish ambition, and a lack of love for others. James 3:16 warns, "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice." This verse highlights the destructive nature of strife, as it leads to chaos and opens the door to further sinful behaviors. In the Old Testament, strife is frequently mentioned as a source of division and conflict among people. Proverbs 17:14 advises, "Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out." This wisdom literature underscores the importance of avoiding strife and seeking peace instead. Similarly, Proverbs 20:3 states, "It is honorable for a man to resolve a dispute, but any fool will quarrel." The New Testament provides guidance on how to overcome strife and live in harmony with others. Romans 12:18 encourages believers, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone." This exhortation calls Christians to pursue peace actively and to avoid actions that lead to discord. Furthermore, Philippians 2:3-4 instructs, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." The antidote to strife is found in the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). By cultivating these virtues, believers can overcome the tendencies of the flesh and foster unity within the body of Christ. Ephesians 4:3 urges, "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." In summary, strife is a destructive force that arises from the flesh and is contrary to the will of God. It is characterized by conflict and division, and it hinders the believer's spiritual growth and witness. The Bible calls Christians to reject strife and to pursue peace and unity through the power of the Holy Spirit. Torrey's Topical Textbook Galatians 5:20Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, jealousies, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Beatific vision. "Having Begun in the Spirit" "Who Walk not after the Flesh, but after the Spirit. " The Holy Spirit Bringing Forth in the Believer Christlike Graces ... The Spirit and the Flesh The Regenerating Work of the Holy Spirit. Christ's Summary of his Work James iii. 14-16 Twenty-Fourth Day. Holiness and Cleansing. "So Then they that are in the Flesh Cannot Please God. " Resources What is the pride of life? | GotQuestions.orgWhy will the nations need healing in the New Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.org What is the New World Order? | GotQuestions.org Strife: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Strife: An Evidence of a Carnal Spirit Strife: Appeased by Slowness to Anger Strife: Between Abraham and Lot's Herdsmen Strife: Christ, an Example of Avoiding Strife: Christians at Antioch (In Syria), About Circumcision Strife: Danger of Joining In--Illustrated Strife: Difficulty of Stopping, a Reason for Avoiding It Strife: Disciples, Over Who Could be the Greatest Strife: Evidences a Love of Transgression Strife: Excited by a Contentious Disposition Strife: Excited by Curious Questions Strife: Excited by Drunkenness Strife: Excited by Frowardness Strife: Excited by Tale-Bearing Strife: General Scriptures Concerning Strife: Herdmen of Abram and of Lot Strife: Herdmen of Gerar and of Isaac Strife: Hypocrites Make Religion a Pretence For Strife: Isaac's and Those of Gerar Strife: Israel and Judah, About David Strife: It is Honorable to Cease From Strife: Jephthah and his Brothers Strife: Jephthah and the Ephraimites Strife: Jews, Concerning Jesus Strife: Leads to Confusion and Every Evil Work Strife: Leads to Mutual Destruction Strife: Ministers should Avoid Strife: Ministers should Avoid Questions That Lead To Strife: Ministers should not Preach Through Strife: Ministers should Reprove Strife: Ministers should Warn Against Strife: Paul and Barnabas, About Mark Strife: Pharisees and Sadducees Strife: Pharisees and Sadducees, Concerning the General Resurrection Strife: Promoters of, should be Expelled Strife: Saints Kept from Tongues of Strife: Saints should Avoid Questions That Lead To Strife: Saints should do all Things Without Strife: Saints should not Act From Strife: Saints should not Walk In Strife: Saints should Praise God for Protection From Strife: Saints should Seek God's Protection From Strife: Saints should Submit to Wrong Rather than Engage In Strife: Strength and Violence of--Illustrated Strife: Temporal Blessing Embittered By Strife: The Corinthian Christians Related Terms |
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