Topical Bible: Strife: Strength and Violence of--Illustrated

◄ Strife: Strength and Violence of--Illustrated ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Strife, as depicted in the Bible, often embodies the destructive power and intensity that can arise from human conflict and discord. It is frequently associated with violence, division, and the breakdown of relationships, both among individuals and within communities. The Bible provides numerous illustrations of strife, highlighting its strength and the havoc it can wreak when left unchecked.

Cain and Abel

One of the earliest and most poignant examples of strife is found in the account of Cain and Abel. In Genesis 4:8 , "Cain said to his brother Abel, 'Let us go out to the field.' And while they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel and killed him." This act of violence, born out of jealousy and anger, illustrates the destructive power of strife within a family. The strength of Cain's emotions led to the first murder, setting a precedent for the devastating consequences of unchecked conflict.

The Tower of Babel

The account of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11:1-9 demonstrates strife on a communal level. The people, unified in their purpose to build a tower reaching the heavens, were scattered by God due to their pride and ambition. In Genesis 11:7-8 , God says, "Come, let Us go down and confuse their language, so that they will not understand one another’s speech." The resulting confusion and division illustrate how strife can disrupt unity and lead to the fragmentation of society.

Saul and David

The relationship between King Saul and David is another vivid example of strife's strength and violence. Saul's jealousy and fear of David's rising popularity and God's favor led to numerous attempts on David's life. In 1 Samuel 18:10-11 , "The next day a spirit of distress sent from God came upon Saul, and he prophesied inside the house. While David was playing the harp as usual, Saul hurled the spear, thinking, 'I will pin David to the wall.' But David eluded him twice." This ongoing conflict showcases how strife can consume an individual, leading to irrational and violent actions.

Absalom's Rebellion

The rebellion of Absalom against his father, King David, is a powerful illustration of strife within a nation. Absalom's ambition and desire for power led to a civil war in Israel. In 2 Samuel 15:10-12 , Absalom sent secret messengers throughout the tribes of Israel, saying, "As soon as you hear the sound of the horn, you are to say, ‘Absalom reigns in Hebron!’" This act of rebellion and the ensuing conflict highlight the strength of strife to incite violence and division on a national scale.

The Early Church

Strife also threatened the unity of the early Christian church. In Acts 15:1-2 , a dispute arose over the necessity of circumcision for Gentile believers: "Some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, 'Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.' And after much dissension and debate, Paul and Barnabas were appointed to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and elders about this question." This conflict illustrates how strife can challenge doctrinal unity and necessitate resolution through dialogue and discernment.

Proverbs on Strife

The Book of Proverbs offers wisdom on the nature and consequences of strife. Proverbs 17:14 warns, "To start a quarrel is to release a flood; so abandon the dispute before it breaks out." This imagery underscores the potential for strife to escalate rapidly and cause widespread damage, much like a flood breaking through a dam.

Conclusion

The Bible's portrayal of strife as a force of strength and violence serves as a cautionary tale about the potential for human conflict to lead to destruction and division. Through these illustrations, Scripture calls for the pursuit of peace, reconciliation, and unity, urging believers to seek resolution and harmony in their relationships and communities.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 17:14
The beginning of strife is as when one lets out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 18:19
A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.
Torrey's Topical Textbook