Topical Encyclopedia Strife, as depicted in the Bible, is often associated with discord, contention, and rivalry among individuals or groups. It is considered a manifestation of the carnal, or fleshly, nature that stands in opposition to the spiritual life that believers are called to pursue. The presence of strife is frequently highlighted in Scripture as a sign of immaturity and a lack of spiritual growth.Biblical References and Context The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of strife in several of his epistles, emphasizing its destructive nature and its roots in the flesh. In 1 Corinthians 3:3, Paul admonishes the Corinthian church, saying, "For you are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not worldly and walking in a human way?" . Here, strife is linked with jealousy and is indicative of a worldly mindset, contrasting with the spiritual maturity expected of believers. In Galatians 5:19-21, strife is listed among the "works of the flesh," which are in direct opposition to the "fruit of the Spirit." Paul writes, "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God" . Strife, in this context, is associated with other sinful behaviors that hinder one's relationship with God and the community of believers. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, strife is seen as a barrier to unity within the body of Christ. It disrupts the harmony that should characterize the relationships among believers. In Philippians 2:3-4, Paul exhorts the church to "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" . This call to humility and selflessness is presented as the antidote to strife, promoting peace and unity. James, the brother of Jesus, also addresses the issue of strife in his epistle. In James 3:14-16, he warns, "But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice" . James identifies the root causes of strife as jealousy and selfish ambition, which lead to disorder and evil practices, further emphasizing the need for divine wisdom and purity of heart. Practical Considerations In practical terms, overcoming strife requires a conscious effort to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" . By focusing on these virtues, believers can counteract the tendencies of the flesh and foster an environment of peace and cooperation. Furthermore, the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount provide guidance on dealing with strife. In Matthew 5:9, Jesus declares, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" . This beatitude underscores the importance of actively seeking peace and reconciliation, reflecting the character of God and the transformative power of the gospel. In summary, strife is a clear indication of a carnal spirit, rooted in selfishness and pride. It stands in stark contrast to the life of the Spirit, which is marked by love, unity, and peace. The biblical call is to reject strife and embrace the virtues that lead to spiritual maturity and harmonious relationships within the body of Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Corinthians 3:3For you are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are you not carnal, and walk as men? Torrey's Topical Textbook Library "Who Walk not after the Flesh, but after the Spirit. " The Suffering of Love. The Spirit not Striving Always. The Seventh Chapter of the Epistle to the Romans. Nicodemus Letter xvi. Charity. The Singer of Pietism Conclusion Twenty Fourth Sunday after Trinity Prayer and Spiritual Knowledge. Justification by Faith Resources What does the Bible say about strife? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit (Philippians 2:3)? | GotQuestions.org Who was Jacob in the Bible? | 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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