Topical Encyclopedia Strife, characterized by conflict, discord, and contention, is a condition that the Bible consistently warns against. The Scriptures provide clear guidance on how to handle individuals who promote strife within the community of believers. The promotion of strife is seen as a destructive force that undermines unity and peace, which are central to the Christian faith.Biblical Warnings Against Strife The Bible frequently addresses the dangers of strife and the behaviors that lead to it. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists things that the Lord hates, including "a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community." This passage highlights the severity with which God views those who incite discord. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul provides further instruction on dealing with strife. In his letter to the Romans, he advises, "If possible on your part, live at peace with everyone" (Romans 12:18). This exhortation underscores the importance of peace and the believer's responsibility to pursue it actively. Expulsion of Strife Promoters The New Testament provides specific instructions regarding the treatment of those who cause division and strife within the church. In Titus 3:10-11, Paul instructs, "Reject a divisive man after a first and second admonition, knowing that such a man is corrupt and sinful; he is self-condemned" . This directive emphasizes the necessity of addressing divisive behavior promptly and, if unrepentant, removing the individual from the community to preserve the church's unity and purity. Similarly, in 1 Corinthians 5:11-13, Paul advises the Corinthian church to expel the immoral brother, extending the principle to those who disrupt the fellowship through strife. The goal of such expulsion is not only to protect the church but also to encourage repentance and restoration of the individual. The Role of Church Leadership Church leaders bear the responsibility of maintaining order and unity within the congregation. They are called to be vigilant against those who sow discord. Hebrews 13:17 instructs believers to "obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who must give an account" . Leaders must exercise discernment and authority to address and, if necessary, expel those who promote strife. The Call to Unity and Peace The overarching biblical mandate is for believers to strive for unity and peace. Ephesians 4:3 urges Christians to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" . This pursuit of harmony is foundational to the Christian witness and reflects the character of Christ, who is the Prince of Peace. In summary, the Bible provides clear guidance on the treatment of those who promote strife within the church. Through admonition and, if necessary, expulsion, the community of believers is called to protect its unity and reflect the peace of Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 22:10Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out; yes, strife and reproach shall cease. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Robert Nelson, his Friends, and Church Principles. 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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