Topical Encyclopedia Strife, in the biblical context, refers to conflict, contention, or discord among individuals or groups. The Scriptures consistently warn against engaging in strife, particularly for those who are followers of Christ. The Bible emphasizes the importance of unity, peace, and love within the body of believers, urging saints to avoid questions and disputes that lead to strife.Biblical Warnings Against Strife The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, frequently addresses the issue of strife among believers. In 2 Timothy 2:23-24 , Paul advises, "But reject foolish and ignorant speculation, for you know that it breeds quarreling. And a servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome, but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and forbearing." Here, Paul underscores the importance of avoiding pointless debates that lead to arguments and division. Similarly, in Titus 3:9 , Paul instructs, "But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, arguments, and quarrels about the Law, because these things are pointless and worthless." This passage highlights the futility of engaging in disputes over matters that do not contribute to spiritual growth or edification. The Call to Peace and Unity The call to avoid strife is rooted in the broader biblical mandate for peace and unity among believers. In Ephesians 4:3 , Paul exhorts the church to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." This unity is essential for the effective witness of the church and the spiritual health of its members. James 3:16-18 further contrasts the destructive nature of strife with the virtues of peace: "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness." This passage highlights the contrast between earthly wisdom, which leads to strife, and heavenly wisdom, which fosters peace and righteousness. Practical Steps to Avoid Strife Believers are encouraged to cultivate attitudes and behaviors that prevent strife. Proverbs 15:1 offers practical wisdom: "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." By responding with gentleness and patience, saints can defuse potential conflicts and promote harmony. Furthermore, Colossians 3:12-14 provides a blueprint for interpersonal relationships within the church: "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity." By embodying these virtues, believers can effectively avoid strife and maintain the unity of the Spirit. Conclusion The biblical exhortation to avoid strife is clear and consistent. Saints are called to pursue peace, unity, and love, steering clear of questions and disputes that lead to division. By adhering to the teachings of Scripture and cultivating Christ-like virtues, believers can foster an environment of harmony and spiritual growth within the body of Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Timothy 2:14Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Directions How to Lead a Heavenly Life Upon Earth. Differences in Judgment About Water Baptism, no Bar to Communion ... Introduction Christian Behavior On the Interpretation of Scripture The Number of those who Fought for Religion in Gaul under Verus ... Matt. xviii. 7 In the Creation of the World, and all Things in It, the True God ... Period ii. The Post-Apostolic Age: AD 100-AD 140 Book I. 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 |