Compiled By: Lisa K Gonzales
From: The Life Application Study Bible
9 “Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees or in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These kinds of things are useless and a waste of time. 10 If anyone is causing divisions among you, give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with that person.” ~ Titus 3:9-10
Paul warned Titus, just as he warned Timothy, not to get involved in foolish and unprofitable arguments. – “Remind everyone of these things, and command them in GOD’s Name to stop fighting over words. Such arguments are useless and they can ruin those who hear them.” – 2 Timothy 2:14 – This does not mean we should refuse to study, discuss, and examine different interpretations of difficult Bible passages. Paul is warning against petty quarrels, not honest discussion that leads to wisdom. As foolish arguments develop, it is best to turn the discussion back to a helpful direction or politely excuse yourself.
The false teachers were basing their heresies on genealogies and speculations about the law. – 3 “When I left for Macedonia, I urged you to stay there in Ephesus and stop those who are teaching wrong doctrine. 4 Do not let people waste time in endless speculation over myths and spiritual pedigrees. For these things only cause arguments they do not help people live a life of faith in GOD.” – 1 Timothy 1:3-4 – Similar to the methods used by false teachers in Ephesus and Colosse, they were building their case on genealogies of angels. We should avoid false teachers, not even bothering to get involved in their foolish discussions. Our overreaction can sometimes give more attention to their points of view.
“For people like that have turned away from the truth. They are sinning, and they condemn themselves.” – Titus 3:11 – A person must be warned when he or she is causing division that threatens the unity of the church. This should not be a heavy-handed action, but a warning to correct the individual’s divisive nature and restore him or her to fellowship. A person who refuses to be corrected should be put outside the fellowship. As Paul said, that person is self-condemned – he or she is sinning – and knows it!
Father keep us from getting involved in foolish discussions, quarrels and fights over spiritual pedigrees. These types of arguments cause division and are a waste of time. Help us instead LORD, to study, discuss and examine different interpretations of difficult Bible passages that will lead us to wisdom.
Photo: Port Lavaca (Texas)
Photo By: Lisa K Gonzales
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