Engaging in arguments with individuals who refuse to listen or understand can be frustrating and unproductive.
Join us on a thought-provoking exploration of verses in the Bible that address the topic of arguing with fools.
Discover the wisdom within these scriptures, offering insights on wise communication, discernment, and choosing battles wisely in our interactions with others.
Also Read: 21 Bible Verses about Nothing Too Hard for God (With Commentary)
Bible Verses about Arguing with a Fool
Proverbs 20:3
“It is to one’s honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.”
This verse reminds us that it is wise to avoid strife and arguing because it brings honor. However, fools are more willing to engage in quarrels, which can lead to a bad reputation.
Proverbs 26:4-5
“Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him. Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.”
These two verses appear to contradict each other, but they actually provide a wise paradox. The first verse advises not to lower oneself to a fool’s level by responding foolishly, while the second verse advises to address a fool in a way that exposes their foolishness so they don’t think themselves wise.
Proverbs 29:9
“If a wise person goes to court with a fool, the fool rages and scoffs, and there is no peace.”
This verse highlights the issue of arguing with a fool in a court of law. The fool tends to be loud and abusive, which can create a chaotic situation where no peace can be found.
Ecclesiastes 7:9
“Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.”
This verse warns against being too quick to anger when dealing with fools. It emphasizes that anger is a hallmark of foolishness and can lead to an unproductive argument.
Matthew 7:6
“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.”
This verse speaks to the wisdom of not engaging in arguments with those who have no regard for sacred things. It advises that if you do engage with them, they may not only disrespect what you have to say, but also turn their aggression towards you.
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.”
These verses highlight the need for Christians to avoid foolish and unproductive arguments. Instead, they should strive to be kind, able to teach, and not easily offended.
Proverbs 17:28
“Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.”
This verse reminds us that fools are often exposed by their words. Therefore, it is often wise to simply avoid arguing with them and let their foolishness speak for itself.
Proverbs 15:18
“A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.”
This verse highlights the importance of remaining calm and patient in arguments. A hot-tempered person is likely to escalate conflicts, while a patient person can resolve them peacefully.
Proverbs 12:16
“Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult.”
This verse reminds us that fools tend to be easily provoked and quick to anger. On the other hand, wise people are more likely to overlook an insult and not let it affect them.
Proverbs 13:10
“Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.”
This verse emphasizes that arguments and strife are often caused by pride. However, true wisdom is found in those who are willing to listen to advice and take it to heart.
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”
These verses encourage Christians to be careful in their communication and to avoid getting angry quickly. Listening carefully before speaking can help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of responding gently to others, especially during arguments. Harsh words are likely to escalate the situation, while gentle responses can help calm things down.
Proverbs 19:11
“A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.”
This verse reminds us that wisdom is often reflected in patience and the ability to overlook offenses. It emphasizes that doing so can bring glory and honor.
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.”
These verses emphasize the power of words and their consequences. It is important to be careful with what we say, especially during arguments, as we will be held accountable for all our words on the day of judgment.
Jude 1:9
“But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not himself dare to condemn him for slander but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’
This verse highlights that even powerful beings, like the archangel Michael, do not engage in unproductive arguments. Instead, he defers to God’s authority in rebuking the devil.
Proverbs 18:2
“Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.”
This verse warns against engaging in discussions with those who are only interested in expressing their own opinions without listening to others. It emphasizes that such people are not interested in understanding, only in being heard.
Proverbs 10:19
“Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.”
This verse reminds us that the more we talk during an argument, the more likely we are to sin. Instead, it is wise to hold our tongues and not exacerbate the situation.
Proverbs 15:2
“The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.”
This verse highlights the importance of speaking wisely during arguments. Wise words can improve a situation, but foolish words will only make things worse.
Proverbs 26:12
“Do you see a person wise in their own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for them.”
This verse warns against arrogance and pride, which can lead a person to think they know everything. It says that a person who is wise in their own eyes is in a worse position than a fool, who may at least be able to learn from their mistakes.
James 3:16
“For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.”
These verses caution against arguing out of envy or selfish ambition, which can lead to chaos and evil. Instead, it is important to seek peace and understanding.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This verse reminds us that productive arguments can actually be beneficial when both parties are seeking growth and understanding. When arguments are focused on personal growth and understanding, they can be sharpening experiences.
Matthew 5:39
“But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”
This verse speaks to the idea of turning the other cheek, or not engaging in arguments with people who simply want to cause harm or upset. It is important to be peaceful and non-resistant in such situations, in order to promote peace and understanding.
Proverbs 14:17
“A quick-tempered person does foolish things, and the one who devises evil schemes is hated.”
These verses emphasize the dangers of a quick temper during arguments. They can lead a person to do foolish things and gain a reputation of being unpleasant.
What does the Bible say about Arguing with a Fool?
In the Bible, the concept of arguing with a fool is addressed as a cautionary practice. Proverbs, in particular, contains several verses that provide guidance on how to interact with foolish people and avoid fruitless debates or conflicts. The term “fool” in this context does not refer to someone lacking intelligence but rather to someone who habitually rejects wisdom and understanding.
The general message conveyed by these verses is that engaging in prolonged arguments with fools can be counterproductive and detrimental. Fools tend to be stubborn, arrogant, and resistant to reason, making it challenging to have meaningful discussions with them. Arguing with such individuals can lead to frustration, wasted energy, and potential damage to relationships.
Instead, the Bible encourages believers to respond wisely to fools. It suggests refraining from engaging in senseless debates and avoiding being ensnared in their folly. Instead, followers of the Bible are encouraged to seek wisdom, discernment, and understanding, which can help them navigate difficult situations and interactions with foolish individuals.
It is essential to exercise discernment and choose when to engage in discussions, ensuring that the focus remains on promoting truth, love, and understanding rather than getting caught up in futile arguments. Ultimately, the Bible advises believers to surround themselves with wise and godly counsel, learning from those who can offer genuine insight and understanding, while also showing patience and compassion towards those who may not yet grasp the wisdom of God.