Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: In the biblical context, arguments refer to disputes, contentions, or debates that arise between individuals or groups. These can be verbal confrontations or intellectual disagreements. The Bible addresses arguments in various contexts, emphasizing the importance of resolving disputes in a manner that aligns with Christian principles of love, humility, and truth. Old Testament References: The Old Testament provides numerous examples of arguments and disputes among individuals and nations. Proverbs offers wisdom on handling arguments, often highlighting the value of peace and understanding over strife. Proverbs 15:1 states, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." This verse underscores the power of words in either escalating or de-escalating conflicts. In Genesis, we see the first recorded argument between Cain and Abel, which tragically ends in violence (Genesis 4:8). This narrative illustrates the destructive potential of unresolved anger and jealousy. The account of Job also includes arguments between Job and his friends, who debate the reasons for his suffering (Job 4-31). These dialogues explore themes of justice, righteousness, and divine sovereignty. New Testament Teachings: The New Testament continues to address the issue of arguments, particularly within the early Christian communities. Jesus Himself taught about reconciliation and the importance of resolving disputes. In Matthew 5:23-24 , He instructs, "Therefore if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift." The Apostle Paul frequently addresses arguments in his epistles, urging believers to maintain unity and avoid divisive disputes. In Philippians 2:14 , Paul writes, "Do everything without complaining or arguing," encouraging a spirit of cooperation and harmony. Similarly, in 2 Timothy 2:23-24 , he advises, "But reject foolish and ignorant speculation, for you know that it breeds quarreling. And a servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome, but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and forbearing." Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, arguments are seen as a manifestation of human sinfulness and pride. The Bible calls believers to rise above petty disputes and to seek peace and reconciliation. James 4:1-2 provides insight into the root causes of arguments: "What causes conflicts and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from the passions at war within you? You crave what you do not have; you kill and covet, but are unable to obtain it. You quarrel and fight." Practical Application: Christians are encouraged to approach arguments with a spirit of humility and a desire for truth. Ephesians 4:15 advises believers to speak "the truth in love," balancing honesty with compassion. The goal is not to win an argument but to foster understanding and unity. The biblical model for resolving disputes involves listening, patience, and a willingness to forgive, reflecting the character of Christ in all interactions. Greek 3053. logismos -- a reasoning, a thought ... assign in determining what . 3053 ("calculated arguments, thoughts") emphasizes , ie what comes out of a . Word Origin from logizomai ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3053.htm - 7k 477. antithesis -- opposition 1246. diakatelegchomai -- to confute completely Strong's Hebrew 561. emer -- speech, word... Word Origin from amar Definition speech, word NASB Word Usage arguments (1), chastisement (1), command (1), decreed (1), promise (1), sayings (4), slander* ( ... /hebrew/561.htm - 6k 8414. tohu -- formlessness, confusion, unreality, emptiness 8433b. tokachath -- argument, reproof Library Reply to the Arguments of the Adversaries. The Arguments Usually Alleged in Support of Free Will Refuted. The Arguments of the Platonists for the Soul's Incorporeality ... You Bring Forward Arguments against Us, and Speculative Quibblings ... Wesley's Living Arguments Arguments from the Novelty of Fate and Generation; that Golden Age ... How Much the Arguments Make for Us... Augustin Undertakes the Refutation of the Arguments which Might be ... Answer to the Foregoing Arguments. St. Teresa's Arguments of the Chapters. Thesaurus Arguments (29 Occurrences)...Arguments (29 Occurrences). ... (BBE). Acts 27:11 But Julius let himself be persuaded by the pilot and by the owner rather than by Paul's arguments; (WEY). ... /a/arguments.htm - 14k Debate (13 Occurrences) Argue (21 Occurrences) Plead (64 Occurrences) Immortal (3 Occurrences) Immortality (6 Occurrences) Nathanael (6 Occurrences) Levitical (19 Occurrences) God (45911 Occurrences) Exhort (37 Occurrences) Resources What are a priori, a posteriori, and a fortiori arguments? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the main arguments against limited atonement? | GotQuestions.org What are the cosmological arguments for the existence of God? | GotQuestions.org Arguments: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Arguments (29 Occurrences)Acts 6:9 Acts 9:22 Acts 27:11 2 Corinthians 10:5 Galatians 1:10 Philippians 1:7 Philippians 2:14 Colossians 2:4 1 Timothy 6:4 1 Timothy 6:20 2 Timothy 2:23 Titus 1:9 Titus 3:9 Deuteronomy 1:12 2 Samuel 19:9 Job 6:25 Job 9:14 Job 15:3 Job 20:3 Job 23:4 Job 32:12 Job 32:14 Job 40:2 Psalms 38:14 Proverbs 19:13 Proverbs 23:29 Isaiah 29:21 Isaiah 41:21 Isaiah 59:4 Subtopics Related Terms |