Topical Encyclopedia Strife, a term often associated with conflict, discord, and contention, is a recurring theme in the Bible, illustrating the destructive consequences it can have on individuals and communities. The Bible warns against strife, highlighting its potential to lead to injustice and moral decay.In the Old Testament, the book of Proverbs frequently addresses the dangers of strife. Proverbs 15:18 states, "A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger calms a dispute." This verse underscores the role of strife in escalating conflicts and the importance of patience and self-control in preventing injustice. Strife often arises from unchecked anger and pride, leading to actions that are unjust and harmful to others. The account of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4 is an early biblical example of how strife can lead to grave injustice. Cain's jealousy and anger towards his brother Abel culminate in the first murder recorded in Scripture. Genesis 4:8 recounts, "Cain said to his brother Abel, 'Let us go out to the field.' And while they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother Abel and killed him." This act of violence, born out of strife, results in the ultimate injustice—taking an innocent life. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of strife within the early Christian communities. In Galatians 5:19-21 , Paul lists "strife" among the works of the flesh, warning that those who practice such things "will not inherit the kingdom of God." This passage highlights the spiritual danger of strife and its capacity to disrupt the harmony and justice that should characterize the body of Christ. 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." Here, James connects strife with disorder and evil, suggesting that it creates an environment where injustice can thrive. The presence of strife indicates a departure from godly wisdom, which is "pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere" (James 3:17). The Bible also provides guidance on how to avoid strife and the resulting injustice. In Romans 12:18 , Paul advises, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone." This call to peace emphasizes the believer's responsibility to pursue harmony and justice, counteracting the divisive nature of strife. Furthermore, Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount advocate for reconciliation and peacemaking as antidotes to strife. In Matthew 5:9 , Jesus declares, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." This beatitude highlights the divine approval and blessing upon those who actively seek to resolve conflicts and promote justice. In summary, the Bible consistently portrays strife as a catalyst for injustice, urging believers to cultivate peace, patience, and reconciliation. By adhering to these principles, individuals and communities can prevent the destructive consequences of strife and uphold the justice that reflects God's character. Torrey's Topical Textbook Habakkuk 1:3,4Why do you show me iniquity, and cause me to behold grievance? for spoiling and violence are before me: and there are that raise up strife and contention. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Chapter xvi Rom. xiii. 11 Sunday after Ascension Day Progress of Reform in Germany. Progress of Reform in Germany Book iv Thus Gently Sang the Lady Philosophy with Dignified Mien ... The Second Theological Oration. Letter of Julius to the Eusebians at Antioch. "Thou Shalt Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother. " Discourse viii. The Help of Religion. 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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