When you teach, refuse quarrels
Some of the greatest quarrels among men stem from religious differences. Therefore we must be careful about how we handle difference of opinion in religious things.
2 Tm 2:23 But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels.
People love to speculate on things – things like:
- When will Jesus come again?
- Where does this event fit in the end times?
- Who will the anti-Christ be?
- What will the millennium be like?
- What will heaven be like?
And more things like that.
We are commanded to refuse to speculate on such things. They cause unnecessary division.
It is one thing to divide on necessary things, but it is quite another thing to divide on unnecessary things. There are many things that are not worth talking about. We should avoid talking about such things. Moreover, if we are in the midst of people who enjoy talking about such things we should warn them at most twice and then stop associating with them.
Tit 3:9-11 But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and strife and disputes about the Law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. Reject a factious man after a first and second warning, knowing that such a man is perverted and is sinning, being self-condemned.
The one who teaches God’s word must learn to avoid quarreling. It brings great peace. Let others think what they want. It is good to be humble and realize that we can’t change anyone’s opinion on anything. We can leave that in the hands of God.
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