Topical Encyclopedia Strife, a term often encountered in biblical literature, refers to conflict, discord, or contention among individuals or groups. It is frequently depicted as a destructive force that disrupts harmony and peace. In the context of Scripture, strife is often excited by frowardness, a term that denotes a perverse or willfully contrary disposition. This entry explores the biblical understanding of strife as it is incited by frowardness, drawing on relevant passages from the Berean Standard Bible .Biblical Context and Definition The Bible consistently warns against strife, highlighting its roots in human sinfulness and rebellion against God's order. Frowardness, characterized by stubbornness and a refusal to follow righteous paths, is a common catalyst for strife. The book of Proverbs frequently addresses the connection between a froward heart and the emergence of conflict. Proverbs on Strife and Frowardness Proverbs 16:28 states, "A perverse man spreads dissension, and a gossip separates close friends." Here, the "perverse man" is synonymous with the froward individual whose actions sow discord. The verse underscores the destructive power of frowardness in creating strife among people. Similarly, Proverbs 6:12-14 describes the froward person: "A worthless person, a wicked man, walks with a perverse mouth, winking his eyes, speaking with his feet, and pointing with his fingers. With deceit in his heart he devises evil; he continually sows discord." This passage paints a vivid picture of the froward individual whose deceitful and rebellious nature leads to ongoing strife. The Consequences of Strife The Bible warns of the dire consequences of strife, particularly when it is fueled by frowardness. James 3:16 states, "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice." This verse highlights the chaos and moral decay that accompany strife, emphasizing the need for believers to guard against froward tendencies. Strife in the New Testament The New Testament continues to address the issue of strife, urging believers to pursue peace and unity. In Galatians 5:19-21 , strife is listed among the "acts of the flesh," which are contrary to the fruit of the Spirit. The apostle Paul warns that those who engage in such behaviors "will not inherit the kingdom of God." Avoiding Strife through Righteousness The Bible offers guidance on avoiding strife by cultivating a heart of righteousness and humility. Proverbs 15:18 advises, "A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger calms a dispute." This wisdom encourages believers to exercise patience and self-control, countering the froward tendencies that lead to conflict. Furthermore, Philippians 2:3 exhorts, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." By prioritizing humility and selflessness, believers can resist the frowardness that incites strife and instead foster an environment of peace and cooperation. Conclusion While the Bible acknowledges the reality of strife in a fallen world, it also provides a clear path for believers to overcome it. By recognizing the role of frowardness in exciting strife and adhering to biblical principles of righteousness and humility, Christians are called to be peacemakers, reflecting the character of Christ in their relationships and communities. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 16:28A fraudulent man sows strife: and a whisperer separates chief friends. Torrey's Topical Textbook Resources What does it mean that the love of many will grow cold (Matthew 24:12)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the works of the flesh? | GotQuestions.org What is the biblical significance of Beer Lahai Roi? | 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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