Remind them of this and warn them before God that they are to avoid wrangling over words, which does no good but only ruins those who are listening.” vs. 14
2 Timothy 2:14-15
It’s true that words are important and that the meaning of an entire sentence can be changed by the omission or addition of just a word or two. And sometimes it’s fun to debate the precise meaning of sentences, and even wrangle over which words should be chosen to bring clarity. But it’s also that these arguments about minutiae can drive others to distraction and even bring division. This has been especially true in the Church. Through the centuries almost every schism and rebellion can be traced to debates involved in developing dogma or theological propositions. One side will triumph or be declared the winner, sometimes by voting in an assembly, and the other side, or sides, will pack up their bags and leave, often to form an alternative sect or denomination. Occasionally the differences have led to actual warfare, and thousands of people have died. Looking at from an historical perspective, the whole enterprise seems incredibly foolish, and yet we continue to do the same thing in our current congregations and denominations. It’s amazing sometimes that the Church has survived at all! Admittedly it’s hard to put aside differences of opinion for the sake of the gospel. But unity requires an end to wrangling, especially when we think we’re right!
Thought for the Day: What’s the best antidote for wrangling?
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