Disagreements over scripture have been around since biblical times. The Bible itself encourages us to seek understanding in unity and love, avoiding pointless debates that cause division within the church body.
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What Does The Bible Say About arguing over scripture
Acts 17:2-3
“Then Paul, as his custom was, went in to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and demonstrating that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, ‘This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ.'”
This verse demonstrates the importance of engaging in reasoned discussions and debates about Scripture. Paul engaged with the people in the synagogue and presented his arguments based on the Scriptures to convince them about the truth of Jesus being the Messiah.
When discussing Scripture, it is important to have a respectful and open-minded approach. It is through conversations like these that we can deepen our understanding of God’s Word and grow in our faith.
2 Timothy 2:23-24
“Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.”
This verse reminds us to avoid engaging in pointless arguments that only lead to quarrels. As followers of Christ, our focus should be on spreading the message of love, kindness, and truth.
When discussing Scripture, it is important to approach it with humility and a desire for understanding rather than seeking to prove ourselves right. Our goal should be to teach and share God’s Word with kindness and respect, not to fuel unnecessary quarrels.
Proverbs 18:2
“A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions.”
This verse warns us against the folly of valuing our own opinions more than seeking understanding. When it comes to discussing Scripture, it is crucial to prioritize understanding the truth rather than simply asserting our own viewpoints.
We should approach discussions about Scripture with a genuine desire to learn and grow, rather than seeking to impose our own ideas on others. Humility, open-mindedness, and a commitment to seeking truth are essential when engaging in conversations about God’s Word.
1 Peter 3:15
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”
This verse encourages us to be ready to explain our faith to others and share the reasons for our hope in Christ. However, it also emphasizes the importance of doing so with gentleness and respect.
When engaging in discussions or arguments over Scripture, it is vital to maintain a gentle and respectful attitude, even when faced with opposition or disagreement. Our goal is not to win debates but to reflect the love of Christ in our words and actions.
James 1:19-20
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of actively listening and being slow to speak when engaging in discussions about Scripture. It is all too easy to let our emotions take control and become angry when our opinions are challenged.
However, as followers of Christ, we are called to respond with patience, understanding, and self-control. By cultivating a listening ear, we can better understand different perspectives and engage in fruitful conversations that promote growth and unity.
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
This verse reminds us to season our conversations with grace and wisdom. When discussing Scripture or engaging in debates, our words should reflect the love and mercy of Christ.
By choosing our words carefully and responding in a gracious manner, we create an environment where meaningful dialogue can take place. Our goal should not be to win arguments but to point others towards the truth and the transformative power of God’s Word.
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
This verse reminds us of the tremendous impact our words can have during discussions about Scripture. By responding gently and with kindness, we can diffuse potentially heated conversations and promote understanding.
Engaging in arguments or debates with a harsh or confrontational attitude only serves to escalate tensions. Instead, let us strive to be peacemakers, seeking unity and understanding even in the midst of disagreements.
1 Corinthians 8:1
“Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up.”
This verse reminds us that knowledge should always be accompanied by love. It is easy to get caught up in showcasing our theological knowledge during discussions about Scripture, but if it is not grounded in love, it can lead to pride and division.
While it is important to have a solid understanding of God’s Word, our focus should always be on building up and edifying one another rather than seeking to elevate ourselves. Love should be the driving force behind every conversation about Scripture.
Titus 3:9
“But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless.”
This verse emphasizes the need to avoid getting entangled in pointless arguments and controversies that do not contribute to our spiritual growth. Some debates over Scripture may be fruitless and distract us from the true purpose of engaging with God’s Word.
It is important to discern which discussions are unprofitable and choose instead to focus on topics that will deepen our understanding of God, foster unity, and build up the body of Christ.
Proverbs 14:7
“Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips.”
This verse advises us to be cautious and discerning when engaging in discussions about Scripture. Not everyone we encounter will have a genuine desire for understanding or a respectful approach to dialogue.
It is wise to avoid engaging in debates with individuals whose intentions are to provoke and argue rather than seeking truth. Instead, let us surround ourselves with fellow believers who can encourage and challenge us in our understanding of God’s Word.
Romans 14:1
“Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters.”
This verse reminds us to approach discussions about disputable matters in a spirit of acceptance and understanding. There will always be different interpretations and perspectives on certain aspects of Scripture.
Instead of engaging in fruitless arguments, we should focus on principles that unite believers, such as love, grace, and faith in Christ. Our primary goal should be to build one another up rather than tearing each other down over minor disagreements.
Proverbs 17:14
“Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.”
This verse warns us against the destructive consequences of starting quarrels over Scripture. Just as a breached dam can cause widespread damage, allowing a dispute to escalate can have far-reaching negative effects on relationships and our witness as Christians.
It is essential to exercise wisdom and discernment when engaging in discussions about Scripture. If it becomes evident that a conversation is turning into a heated argument or personal attack, it is wise to let go of the matter before more harm is done.
Proverbs 13:10
“Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.”
This verse highlights the connection between strife and pride. Engaging in arguments over Scripture often stems from a desire to prove ourselves right and assert our superiority in knowledge.
True wisdom, however, lies in the ability to listen and take advice. It requires humility and a willingness to learn from others. When discussing Scripture, let us seek wisdom by valuing the insights and perspectives of others, even if they differ from our own.
Ephesians 4:2-3
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of maintaining unity and peace when engaging in discussions about Scripture. It emphasizes the virtues of humility, gentleness, and patience.
In our desire to seek understanding and express our convictions, let us not forget the greater call to love one another and foster unity in the body of Christ. By embracing these virtues, we can navigate conversations about Scripture in a way that edifies and promotes harmony.
Psalm 133:1
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”
This verse extols the beauty and significance of unity among God’s people. When we engage in respectful discussions about Scripture, we have the opportunity to experience this goodness and pleasantness.
By striving for unity, we create an atmosphere where diverse perspectives and insights can flourish. When we embrace love and a common purpose rooted in Christ, we can foster growth, inspire one another, and glorify God in our conversations about Scripture.
1 Corinthians 1:10
“I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of striving for unity and agreement in our discussions about Scripture. It challenges us to resist unnecessary divisions and embrace a united mindset.
When we approach Scripture with open hearts and a desire to understand and align ourselves with God’s Word, we can bridge differences and find common ground. Our goal should be to come together as the body of Christ, seeking truth and building each other up in love.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”
This verse reminds us of the qualities that should permeate our discussions about Scripture. As followers of Christ, we are called to bear the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, peace, kindness, and self-control.
When we embody these characteristics, our conversations about Scripture become opportunities to display the transformative power of God’s Word in our lives. Let us seek to cultivate these fruits and allow them to guide our interactions, fostering an environment of love and understanding.
Matthew 12:36-37
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words, you will be acquitted, and by your words, you will be condemned.”
This verse serves as a reminder of the weight and accountability that come with our words. Engaging in arguments over Scripture requires us to exercise caution and think before we speak.
Our words have the power to impact others and reflect our character as followers of Christ. Let us be mindful of the weight of our conversations about Scripture, ensuring that our words are filled with grace, truth, and acts of love that bring honor to God.
James 3:17-18
“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.”
This verse describes the characteristics of heavenly wisdom, which should guide our discussions about Scripture. Wisdom that comes from God leads to peace, mercy, and impartiality.
When engaging in debates or arguments over Scripture, let us seek the wisdom that is from above, so that our words and actions reflect God’s heart. Our goal should be to sow seeds of peace and righteousness, bringing about growth and unity in the body of Christ.
John 13:34-35
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.”
This verse emphasizes the centrality of love in our interactions with one another as followers of Christ. When discussing Scripture, our love for one another should be evident, even in the midst of disagreements.
Our ability to engage in respectful and loving conversations about Scripture is a testimony to the world. It is through our love for one another that others will recognize that we are truly disciples of Jesus. Let love be the foundation of all our discussions about God’s Word.
1 Corinthians 13:2
“If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of love when engaging in discussions about Scripture. No matter how knowledgeable or eloquent we may be, if love is absent from our interactions, our efforts are in vain.
Love should always guide our conversations about God’s Word. It is the essence of our faith and the evidence of the transforming power of Christ in our lives. Let love be the force that fuels every discussion and argument over Scripture.
Romans 16:17-18
“I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery, they deceive the minds of naive people.”
This verse cautions us to be discerning and avoid individuals who cause divisions and promote teachings that contradict the truth of Scripture. Not everyone who engages in debates or discussions has pure motives.
It is important to be vigilant and rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit to discern the truth. Surround yourself with individuals who are committed to the authority of God’s Word and seek after genuine understanding, rather than those who seek to manipulate or deceive.
Philippians 2:2-3
“Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”
This verse encourages us to foster unity and like-mindedness in our discussions about Scripture. It emphasizes the importance of setting aside selfish ambition and approaching conversations with humility and a genuine concern for others.
Our goal should be to value others and their perspectives above our own. By seeking unity and demonstrating love in our discussions, we create an atmosphere where God’s truth can be revealed and hearts can be transformed.
Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
This verse reminds us of the power of our words in conversations about Scripture. Reckless and thoughtless words can cut deep and cause harm, but wise and thoughtful words have the ability to bring healing and restoration.
May our words be characterized by wisdom, kindness, and a desire to bring healing. Let us strive to speak truth in love and use our words to build up and encourage one another, even in the midst of disagreements.