Topical Encyclopedia Strife, as depicted in the Bible, is often associated with discord, contention, and conflict among individuals or groups. It is considered a manifestation of deeper spiritual issues, particularly a love of transgression and a departure from God's commandments. The Bible provides numerous insights into the nature of strife and its implications for believers.Biblical Definition and Context Strife is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures as a destructive force that disrupts peace and unity. It is often linked with other sinful behaviors and attitudes, such as envy, pride, and selfish ambition. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, warns against strife as a work of the flesh, contrasting it with the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, and peace (Galatians 5:19-23). Proverbs and Wisdom Literature The Book of Proverbs offers profound insights into the nature of strife and its consequences. Proverbs 17:19 states, "He who loves transgression loves strife; he who builds his gate high invites destruction" . This verse suggests that a love for transgression, or sin, naturally leads to strife, as both are rooted in a rebellious heart. The pursuit of personal gain or the elevation of oneself above others often results in conflict and division. Proverbs 20:3 further advises, "It is honorable for a man to resolve a dispute, but any fool will quarrel" . This highlights the wisdom in seeking peace and reconciliation rather than engaging in unnecessary disputes, which are often fueled by pride and a desire for self-justification. New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, strife is consistently condemned as contrary to the teachings of Christ. James 3:16 warns, "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice" . This passage underscores the destructive nature of strife, which arises from selfish desires and leads to chaos and moral decay. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, exhorts believers to "live in harmony with one another" and to "not be haughty, but associate with the lowly" (Romans 12:16). He emphasizes the importance of humility and unity within the body of Christ, urging Christians to avoid strife and instead pursue peace and mutual edification. Strife as a Reflection of the Heart Strife is often a reflection of the condition of the heart. Jesus taught that "out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander" (Matthew 15:19). Strife, as a form of slander and contention, originates from a heart that is not aligned with God's will. The call to believers is to examine their hearts and motives, seeking to root out any love of transgression that may give rise to strife. The pursuit of righteousness and a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit are essential in overcoming the tendencies toward conflict and division. Practical Implications for Believers For Christians, the presence of strife in one's life or community serves as a warning sign of underlying spiritual issues. Believers are encouraged to seek reconciliation, practice forgiveness, and cultivate a spirit of humility and love. The Apostle Paul advises in Ephesians 4:31-32, "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" . By addressing the root causes of strife and embracing the teachings of Christ, believers can foster an environment of peace and unity, reflecting the love and grace of God in their relationships and communities. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 17:19He loves transgression that loves strife: and he that exalts his gate seeks destruction. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Letter xv. Social and Relative Duties. Christian Meekness The Voice in the Wilderness Not Now, but Hereafter! Second Instruction. I Will Pray with the Spirit and with the Understanding Also- Christ a Complete Saviour: Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of ... Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners: Memoir of John Bunyan Resources What is the pride of life? | GotQuestions.orgWhy will the nations need healing in the New Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.org What is the New World Order? | 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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