Topical Encyclopedia Strife, often characterized by conflict, discord, and contention, is a recurring theme in the Bible, and its destructive nature is frequently highlighted. The Scriptures provide ample warnings about the dangers of strife and the challenges associated with halting it once it begins. The difficulty of stopping strife serves as a compelling reason for believers to avoid it altogether.Proverbs and the Nature of Strife The Book of Proverbs offers profound insights into the nature of strife and its consequences. Proverbs 17:14 states, "Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out." This vivid imagery illustrates how strife, once initiated, can quickly escalate beyond control, much like water rushing through a broken dam. The proverb advises wisdom in avoiding the initial spark that leads to conflict, emphasizing the importance of restraint and discretion. Proverbs 26:21 further underscores the perpetuating nature of strife: "As charcoal to embers and as wood to fire, so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife." Here, the comparison to fire suggests that strife, when fueled by contentious behavior, can grow and spread, causing widespread damage. The implication is clear: avoiding strife is far easier than attempting to extinguish it once it has been ignited. New Testament Teachings on Strife The New Testament continues to address the issue of strife, particularly within the context of Christian communities. In his epistle to the Galatians, the Apostle Paul lists strife among the "works of the flesh" (Galatians 5:19-21), warning that those who engage in such behaviors "will not inherit the kingdom of God." This admonition highlights the spiritual peril associated with strife and the necessity of cultivating the fruit of the Spirit, which includes peace and self-control. James, the brother of Jesus, also speaks to the destructive nature of strife in James 3:16 : "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice." This passage links strife to deeper issues of the heart, such as jealousy and selfishness, which lead to chaos and moral decay. James encourages believers to seek wisdom from above, which is "first of all pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere" (James 3:17). The Example of Jesus Jesus Christ, the ultimate example for Christians, consistently modeled a life free from strife. In His teachings, He emphasized peacemaking and reconciliation. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus declared, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). His call to peacemaking underscores the value of avoiding strife and pursuing harmony with others. Moreover, Jesus' interactions with others, including His responses to provocation and hostility, demonstrate His commitment to peace. He taught His followers to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39) and to love their enemies (Matthew 5:44), principles that inherently oppose the perpetuation of strife. Practical Implications for Believers The biblical teachings on strife serve as a cautionary guide for believers, urging them to recognize the difficulty of stopping strife once it begins and to take proactive steps to avoid it. This involves cultivating virtues such as patience, humility, and forgiveness, which counteract the tendencies that lead to conflict. By adhering to these principles, Christians can foster environments of peace and unity, reflecting the character of Christ in their relationships and communities. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 17:14The beginning of strife is as when one lets out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library A Canticle of Love A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to ... Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon: 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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