Topical Encyclopedia Strife, characterized by conflict, discord, and contention, is a condition that the Bible consistently warns against, particularly for those who are followers of Christ. The Scriptures provide clear guidance that saints, or believers, should avoid engaging in strife, as it is contrary to the nature and calling of a Christian.Biblical Warnings Against Strife The Bible frequently admonishes believers to steer clear of strife. In Proverbs 20:3 , it is written, "It is honorable for a man to resolve a dispute, but any fool will quarrel." This verse highlights the wisdom in avoiding unnecessary conflict and the folly of engaging in quarrels. Strife is often associated with pride and selfish ambition, which are antithetical to the humility and selflessness that Christ exemplified. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of strife in his letters to the early churches. In Romans 13:13 , Paul exhorts, "Let us walk with decency, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy." Here, dissension, a synonym for strife, is listed among behaviors that are not fitting for those who belong to the light. The Call to Peace and Unity The call for believers to avoid strife is closely linked to the biblical mandate for peace and unity within the body of Christ. In Ephesians 4:1-3 , Paul urges, "I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received: with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." This passage underscores the importance of maintaining unity and peace, which are disrupted by strife. James 3:16-18 further contrasts the outcomes of strife with those 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 peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness." The wisdom that comes from God is inherently opposed to strife and is characterized by peace and righteousness. The Example of Christ Jesus Christ, the ultimate example for believers, demonstrated a life free from strife. In His interactions, Jesus consistently chose the path of peace and reconciliation. In Matthew 5:9 , He teaches, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." This beatitude emphasizes the blessedness of those who actively pursue peace rather than engage in strife. Practical Steps to Avoid Strife Believers are encouraged to take practical steps to avoid strife. This includes practicing humility, as advised in Philippians 2:3 : "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." By prioritizing others and seeking their well-being, saints can prevent the seeds of strife from taking root. Additionally, believers are called to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, as instructed in James 1:19 . This approach fosters understanding and patience, reducing the likelihood of conflict and strife. In summary, the Bible provides clear instruction that saints should not walk in strife. Instead, they are called to pursue peace, unity, and humility, following the example set by Jesus Christ and the teachings of the apostles. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 13:13Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. 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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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