Topical Encyclopedia Strife, in the context of religious hypocrisy, refers to the discord and conflict that arise when individuals use religion as a facade to mask their true intentions or to gain personal advantage. This behavior is condemned throughout the Bible, as it undermines the sincerity and purity of faith, leading to division and moral corruption within the community of believers.Biblical Instances and Teachings 1. Pharisees and Scribes: The Gospels frequently highlight the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and scribes, who are depicted as using their religious status to exert control and influence, rather than to genuinely serve God. Jesus rebukes them for their outward displays of piety that conceal their inner corruption. In Matthew 23:27-28 , Jesus declares, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of impurity. In the same way, on the outside you appear to be righteous, but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness." 2. Isaiah's Prophecy: The prophet Isaiah also addresses the issue of religious pretense. In Isaiah 29:13 , the Lord says, "These people draw near to Me with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me; their worship of Me is but rules taught by men." This passage underscores the emptiness of worship that is not rooted in genuine devotion. 3. Paul's Warnings: The Apostle Paul warns against those who use religion for personal gain and to sow discord among believers. In 1 Timothy 6:3-5 , Paul writes, "If anyone teaches another doctrine and disagrees with the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and with godly teaching, he is conceited and understands nothing. Instead, he has an unhealthy interest in controversies and semantics, out of which come envy, strife, abusive talk, evil suspicions, and constant friction between men of depraved mind who are devoid of the truth. These men regard godliness as a means of gain." 4. James on Wisdom and Strife: The Epistle of James contrasts earthly wisdom, which leads to strife, with heavenly wisdom, which fosters peace. James 3:14-16 states, "But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice." Moral and Spiritual Implications The Bible consistently teaches that true religion is characterized by humility, sincerity, and a heart aligned with God's will. Hypocrites who use religion as a pretense for strife are warned of the spiritual dangers they face. Their actions not only harm their own souls but also disrupt the unity and witness of the faith community. Believers are called to examine their motives and to pursue a faith that is genuine and reflective of Christ's teachings. Practical Application Christians are encouraged to cultivate a personal relationship with God that is marked by authenticity and integrity. This involves regular self-examination, repentance, and a commitment to living out one's faith in love and truth. By doing so, believers can avoid the pitfalls of hypocrisy and contribute to a community that reflects the peace and righteousness of God's kingdom. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 58:4Behold, you fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: you shall not fast as you do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Concerning Salutations and Recreations, &C. The Third Commandment The Great Schism The Second Sermon, in the Afternoon. A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to ... I Will Pray with the Spirit and with the Understanding Also- The Beginning of Justification. In what Sense Progressive. Exposition of the Moral Law. Hindrances to Revivals. 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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