Topical Encyclopedia Strife, characterized by conflict, discord, and contention, is a condition that the Bible consistently warns against. For believers, strife is not merely a social inconvenience but a spiritual hindrance that can disrupt the unity and peace within the body of Christ. The Scriptures provide clear guidance on how saints should conduct themselves, emphasizing the importance of living without strife.Biblical Exhortations Against Strife The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Philippians, provides a direct admonition regarding strife. He writes, "Do everything without complaining or arguing" (Philippians 2:14). This instruction underscores the call for believers to maintain a spirit of harmony and cooperation, avoiding disputes that can lead to division. In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul addresses the issue of strife within the church, highlighting its destructive nature. He states, "For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not worldly and walking in a human way?" (1 Corinthians 3:3). Here, strife is associated with spiritual immaturity and a lack of growth in Christ. The Example of Christ Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example of living without strife. His life and ministry were marked by peace, humility, and a commitment to reconciliation. In the Beatitudes, Jesus blesses the peacemakers, saying, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). This beatitude highlights the value placed on those who actively seek to resolve conflict and promote peace. The Role of Love and Humility Love and humility are essential virtues in overcoming strife. The Apostle Peter exhorts believers to "love one another deeply, from a pure heart" (1 Peter 1:22). Love covers a multitude of sins and fosters an environment where strife cannot easily take root. Similarly, humility is crucial, as Paul advises in Philippians 2:3, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves" . By prioritizing others and setting aside personal agendas, believers can prevent strife from arising. The Fruit of the Spirit The presence of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life produces fruit that is antithetical to strife. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These attributes naturally counteract the tendencies that lead to strife, promoting a life that reflects the character of Christ. Practical Steps to Avoid Strife Believers are encouraged to actively pursue peace and unity. Romans 12:18 advises, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone" . This involves a proactive approach to resolving conflicts, seeking forgiveness, and extending grace. Additionally, James 1:19 offers practical wisdom: "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger" . By practicing these principles, saints can create an atmosphere where strife is minimized. In summary, the call for saints to do all things without strife is a recurring theme in Scripture. Through the example of Christ, the cultivation of love and humility, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, believers are equipped to live in harmony, reflecting the peace and unity that God desires for His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Philippians 2:14Do all things without murmurings and disputings: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Of Divers Gifts of God's Chosen: and How Saints Come to Love in ... We Shall not be Curious in the Ranking of the Duties in which ... Sermon for the Second Sunday in Lent The Fifty-Eighth Chapter: High Matters and the Hidden Judgments of ... Wherefore, that Thou May'st be Rightly Disposed Both for Thy Soul ... Some Scriptures for Daily Practise. On the Exaltation of the Holy Cross The Adornment of the Spritual Marriage Modern Examples of Prayer Letter xvii. --Remorse and Rebellion. 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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