Greetings and Welcome!

Today’s topic is both critical and challenging: How Should Christians Disagree and Debate? In our journey as followers of Christ, we are often faced with situations where disagreements arise, and debates become inevitable. As Christians, it’s not just about what we argue but how we argue that reflects our faith. Let’s delve into what the Bible teaches us about engaging in disagreements in a Christ-like manner.

Understanding Disagreement Among Christians

Romans 15:1–7 lays the groundwork for our discussion. It urges us when Christians disagree and debate to be considerate, not to please ourselves but to build others up in the Lord. This Scripture resonates with the heart of our topic today—the essence of maintaining harmony and glorifying God even amidst disagreement:

Romans 1 “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. 3 For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” 4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. 5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” (NIV)

The Biblical Rules for Engagement

1. Be Gracious: Remember, grace is at the core of our Christian faith. Our debates should be laced with the grace we’ve received from Christ. Ephesians 4:29 reminds us to use words that build up, not tear down. “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” (NIV)
2. Be Courteous and Respectful: It’s essential to listen actively and respectfully. James 1:19 advises us to be quick to listen, slow to speak. “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” (NIV) Courteous disagreement involves acknowledging the other person’s viewpoint, even if you don’t agree.
3. Seek Understanding, Not Victory: Our goal is not to win arguments but to seek mutual understanding and growth. Philippians 2:4 instructs us to look not only to our interests but also to the interests of others. “Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” (NIV)
4. Maintain Unity and Peace: The unity of the Spirit is vital. Ephesians 4:3 encourages us to maintain the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (NIV) Our disagreementsshould not lead to division but rather to a deeper understanding of one another and of God’s word.

Four Things to Avoid in Christian Debates

1. Avoid Personal Attacks: Our disagreement is with the idea, not the person. Attacking someone personally is contrary to the love and respect we are called to show.
2. Refrain from Harsh Judgments: Matthew 7:1 warns us not to judge, lest we be “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” (NIV) Our role is to share in love, not to pass judgment on others’ spiritual journeys.
3. Do Not Compromise Truth for Peace: While maintaining peace is crucial, it should not be at the cost of compromising biblical truth. Ephesians 4:15 urges us to speak the truth in love. “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” (NIV)
4. Avoid Being Argumentative for the Sake of Argument: 2 Timothy 2:23–24 teaches us to avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. “23Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. 24 And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.” (NIV) We are to be gentle to all, able to teach, and patient.

Engaging in Health Christian Debates

In a healthy debate, both parties can grow in understanding and faith. It’s about sharpening each other when Christians disagree and debate, as Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

Personal Reflections and Application

In my journey, I’ve learned that disagreements are inevitable, but how we handle them is where our Christian character is tested. Let’s reflect on our attitude in disagreements. Are we quick to listen and slow to anger (James 1:19)? “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” (NIV) Do we seek to understand before being understood?

Conclusion: Christians Disagree and Debate

As we conclude, I encourage you to reflect on these biblical principles and apply them in your daily interactions, especially when Christians disagree and debate. Let’s pray for wisdom, patience, and grace as we engage with our brothers and sisters in Christ, especially in times of disagreement.

May our debates and disagreements be channels for growth, understanding, and ultimately, for glorifying God. Amen.

 

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