Topical Encyclopedia Strife, characterized by conflict, discord, and contention, is a condition that ministers of the Gospel are admonished to avoid. The Bible provides clear guidance on the importance of maintaining peace and unity within the body of Christ, emphasizing that strife is contrary to the spirit of love and harmony that should define Christian ministry.Biblical Exhortations Against Strife The Apostle Paul, in his pastoral epistles, frequently warns against the dangers of strife. In 2 Timothy 2:24, Paul instructs, "And a servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome, but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and forbearing." This verse highlights the necessity for ministers to embody patience and gentleness, avoiding quarrels that can lead to division and hinder the work of the Gospel. Similarly, in Titus 3:9, Paul advises, "But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, arguments, and quarrels about the Law, because these are unprofitable and useless." Here, the emphasis is on steering clear of disputes that do not edify the church or contribute to spiritual growth. Ministers are called to focus on sound doctrine and the edification of the body rather than engaging in fruitless debates. The Example of Christ Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example for ministers in avoiding strife. Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus demonstrated a commitment to peace and reconciliation. In Matthew 5:9, He declares, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." This beatitude underscores the value placed on peacemaking, a quality that ministers are encouraged to cultivate in their interactions with others. The Role of Wisdom James 3:17-18 provides insight into the role of wisdom in avoiding strife: "But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness." Ministers are urged to seek divine wisdom, which fosters peace and righteousness, rather than succumbing to earthly wisdom that often leads to envy and strife. Consequences of Strife The presence of strife within a ministry can have detrimental effects, leading to division and weakening the testimony of the church. In Galatians 5:19-21, strife is listed among the works of the flesh, which are in opposition to the fruit of the Spirit. Paul warns that those who practice such things "will not inherit the kingdom of God." This serves as a sobering reminder of the spiritual consequences of allowing strife to take root. Practical Steps for Ministers To avoid strife, ministers are encouraged to pursue humility, as outlined in Philippians 2:3: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." By prioritizing the needs and perspectives of others, ministers can foster an environment of mutual respect and understanding. Additionally, Ephesians 4:2-3 calls for ministers to "walk with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." This passage emphasizes the active role ministers must take in maintaining unity and peace within the church. In summary, the avoidance of strife is a critical aspect of effective ministry. By adhering to biblical principles and following the example of Christ, ministers can cultivate a spirit of peace and unity that reflects the transformative power of the Gospel. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Timothy 3:3Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Timothy 2:24 Library A Period of Transition Hindrances to Revivals. Of Evil-Speaking in General. An Account of the Several Annual Conferences, and of the General ... Tome or Synodal Letter to the People of Antioch. Church and State in New England The Epistles of Clement God's Family. The First Epistle of Clement to the Corinthians The Stromata, or Miscellanies. Book v. Cchap. I. --On Faith. 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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