Topical Encyclopedia Strife, characterized by conflict, discord, and contention, is frequently addressed in the Bible as a behavior unbecoming of the wise and godly. The Scriptures consistently portray strife as a hallmark of foolishness, warning believers to avoid such conduct.Proverbs and the Nature of Strife The Book of Proverbs, known for its wisdom literature, provides several insights into the nature of strife and its association with folly. Proverbs 20:3 states, "It is honorable for a man to resolve a dispute, but any fool will quarrel." This verse highlights the contrast between the honorable pursuit of peace and the foolish inclination towards quarreling. The fool, lacking wisdom and self-control, is quick to engage in disputes, often exacerbating conflicts rather than resolving them. Proverbs 18:6 further illustrates this point: "A fool’s lips bring strife, and his mouth invites a beating." Here, the fool's words are depicted as the catalyst for strife, suggesting that reckless speech and a lack of discernment lead to unnecessary conflict. The fool's inability to control his tongue results in strife, which ultimately brings about negative consequences. Strife as a Work of the Flesh In the New Testament, strife is listed among the works of the flesh, which are contrary to the fruit of the Spirit. Galatians 5:19-21 includes strife in a list of sinful behaviors: "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, rage, rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like." The inclusion of strife alongside such behaviors underscores its seriousness and its incompatibility with a life led by the Spirit. The Call to Avoid Strife Believers are called to pursue peace and unity, avoiding the strife that characterizes the foolish. In 2 Timothy 2:23-24 , Paul 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." This passage emphasizes the importance of rejecting the foolishness that leads to strife and instead cultivating a spirit of kindness and patience. The Wisdom of Peacemaking James 3:17-18 contrasts the wisdom from above with earthly wisdom, stating, "But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness." This passage highlights the value of peacemaking as a wise and righteous pursuit, in stark contrast to the strife that fools engage in. Conclusion The biblical portrayal of strife as a behavior of fools serves as a cautionary reminder for believers to seek wisdom and peace. By avoiding strife and embracing the virtues of patience, kindness, and peacemaking, Christians can reflect the character of Christ and live in harmony with others. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 18:6A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calls for strokes. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library "But if Ye have Bitter Envying and Strife in Your Hearts, Glory ... Against Rash and Vain Swearing. To Pammachius against John of Jerusalem. Against Foolish Talking and Jesting. The Complaint: Or, Night Thoughts. Christian Behavior Second Sunday after Epiphany Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ... Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers. A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to ... Resources What does it mean that the love of many will grow cold (Matthew 24:12)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the works of the flesh? | GotQuestions.org What is the biblical significance of Beer Lahai Roi? | 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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