Topical Encyclopedia Strife, as depicted in the Bible, often arises from the pursuit of "curious questions"—inquiries that lead to disputes rather than edification. The Apostle Paul addresses this issue in his pastoral epistles, warning against the dangers of engaging in fruitless debates and controversies that do not promote godly edification.In 1 Timothy 1:4 , Paul advises Timothy to "devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculation rather than the stewardship of God’s work, which is by faith." Here, Paul highlights the tendency of certain discussions to devolve into speculative arguments that distract from the core message of the Gospel. These "curious questions" often lead to strife, as they shift focus away from faith and the transformative power of God's Word. Similarly, in 2 Timothy 2:23 , Paul instructs, "But reject foolish and ignorant speculation, for you know that it breeds quarreling." This verse underscores the futility of engaging in debates that are rooted in ignorance and speculation, as they inevitably lead to quarrels and division within the body of Christ. The emphasis is on avoiding discussions that do not contribute to spiritual growth or unity. Titus 3:9 further reinforces this teaching: "But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, arguments, and quarrels about the Law, because these are unprofitable and useless." Paul categorizes these discussions as "unprofitable and useless," indicating that they do not serve the purpose of building up the church or advancing the Kingdom of God. Instead, they create strife and hinder the work of the Gospel. The biblical perspective on strife excited by curious questions is clear: believers are called to focus on sound doctrine and the edification of the church rather than engaging in debates that lead to division. The pursuit of knowledge and understanding is encouraged, but it must be rooted in the truth of Scripture and aimed at promoting love, unity, and spiritual growth. In the broader biblical context, strife is often associated with works of the flesh, as seen in Galatians 5:19-21 , where Paul lists "strife" among the acts that are contrary to the fruit of the Spirit. The presence of strife within a community is indicative of a departure from the Spirit-led life that believers are called to pursue. The wisdom literature of the Old Testament also speaks to the dangers of strife. Proverbs 17:14 states, "Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out." This proverb highlights the destructive potential of strife and the importance of avoiding it before it escalates. In summary, the Bible consistently warns against the strife that arises from engaging in curious questions and speculative debates. Believers are encouraged to pursue peace, unity, and edification, focusing on the truth of God's Word and the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Timothy 6:4He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof comes envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Timothy 2:23 Library Acts XIX Introductory. Heaven The Form of Concord. AD 1577. The 'education Question' in Trinidad The Deists. Memoir of John Bunyan Enthusiasm. Church Fabrics and Services. On the Symbols of the Essence' and Coessential. ' Resources What does the Bible say about strife? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit (Philippians 2:3)? | GotQuestions.org Who was Jacob in the Bible? | 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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