Which other Scriptures emphasize the importance of calmness and rationality in conflict? Acts 19:36 — A Snapshot of Calm in the Midst of Chaos “Since these things are undeniable, we ought to be calm and not act rashly.” In the riot at Ephesus, the town clerk’s appeal for reason mirrors a biblical pattern: truth is best served when tempers are steady and minds are clear. Old Testament Wisdom for Level-Headed Responses • Proverbs 15:1 — “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” • Proverbs 14:29 — “A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man exalts folly.” • Proverbs 16:32 — “He who is slow to anger is better than a warrior, and he who controls his temper than one who takes a city.” • Proverbs 17:27-28 — “A man of knowledge restrains his words… Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent.” • Proverbs 25:15 — “Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.” • Ecclesiastes 7:9 — “Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger settles in the lap of fools.” Jesus’ Call to Peaceful Hearts • Matthew 5:9 — “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” • Matthew 11:29 — “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” James: Practical Christianity in Motion • James 1:19-20 — “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires.” Paul’s Counsel to the Churches • Romans 12:17-18 — “Do not repay anyone evil for evil… If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone.” • Romans 12:21 — “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” • Ephesians 4:26-27 — “Be angry, yet do not sin. Do not let the sun set upon your anger.” • Ephesians 4:31-32 — “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger… Be kind and tenderhearted.” • Philippians 4:5-7 — “Let your gentleness be apparent to all… and the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” • Colossians 3:12-15 — “Clothe yourselves with… gentleness and patience… Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” • Galatians 5:22-23 — “The fruit of the Spirit is… peace… gentleness, and self-control.” Guidance for Leaders and Witnesses • 2 Timothy 2:24-25 — “A servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome, but must be kind to everyone… He must gently reprove those who oppose him.” • Titus 3:2 — “To malign no one, and to be peaceable and gentle, showing full consideration to everyone.” • 1 Peter 3:15 — “Always be prepared to give a defense… but respond with gentleness and respect.” The Takeaway: Cultivating Calm, Reasoned Faithfulness Scripture consistently pairs truth with tranquility. Whether in Proverbs’ wise sayings, Jesus’ beatitudes, or Paul’s pastoral guidance, the call is the same: steady words, self-controlled emotions, and Spirit-produced gentleness turn conflict into gospel opportunity—just as the town clerk’s calm reasoning defused a riot in Acts 19. |
    |