Topical Encyclopedia Strife, characterized by conflict, discord, and contention, is a condition that believers are admonished to avoid. The Scriptures provide guidance on how saints should respond to situations of strife, emphasizing a spirit of humility and submission rather than engaging in disputes.Biblical Exhortations Against Strife The Bible consistently warns against the dangers of strife and the destructive nature it brings to relationships and communities. In Proverbs 17:14 , it is written, "Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out." This proverb highlights the wisdom in avoiding the initiation of conflict, recognizing that once strife begins, it can lead to uncontrollable consequences. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, frequently addresses the issue of strife among believers. In 1 Corinthians 6:7 , Paul challenges the Corinthian church, saying, "The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated?" Here, Paul underscores the principle that it is better to suffer wrong than to engage in legal disputes with fellow believers, which can damage the testimony of the church. The Example of Christ The ultimate example of submitting to wrong rather than engaging in strife is found in Jesus Christ. In 1 Peter 2:21-23 , Peter writes, "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps: 'He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth.' When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly." Christ's response to unjust treatment was not one of retaliation or strife but of trust in God's righteous judgment. The Call to Peace and Unity Believers are called to pursue peace and unity, which stands in stark contrast to strife. In Romans 12:18 , Paul exhorts, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone." This call to peace requires a willingness to overlook offenses and to prioritize harmony over personal vindication. 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 passage highlights that strife is rooted in selfish ambition, whereas the wisdom from above fosters peace and righteousness. Practical Application for Believers In practical terms, believers are encouraged to adopt a posture of humility and forgiveness, even when wronged. Ephesians 4:31-32 instructs, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." This passage calls for a heart attitude that mirrors the forgiveness and grace received from Christ. By choosing to submit to wrong rather than engage in strife, believers reflect the character of Christ and uphold the unity and peace of the body of Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 20:22Say not you, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and he shall save you. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 5:39,40 1 Corinthians 6:7 Library Differences in Judgment About Water Baptism, no Bar to Communion ... Christian Behavior Of Civil Government. Regeneration by Faith. Of Repentance. Funeral Oration on the Great S. 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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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