I don’t like to argue over doctrinal variances.
We are in such a battle right now and the last thing we need to be doing is arguing over age-old doctrinal variations. I’m not talking about heresy, I’m talking about areas of theological differences in the Body: matters that are NOT Heaven or hell, salvation issues. We do call out false teachings and things that don’t align with scripture as we are called to do.
Some people believe in women preachers, some don’t.
Some people believe in a pre-trib rapture, some don’t.
Some people believe that Christians can have demons, and some don’t.
We need to take these matters to the Lord. We need to seek His heart on these matters.
There are some things that will always be debated until we go home with the Lord. I am not your enemy if you don’t see completely eye to eye with me in one of these areas. I respect your view.
Dr. Hayford used to say, “Let’s focus on the 98% we agree on rather than the 2% we don’t”.
Right now, we are in a war. We need to stand together. We need to know who the real enemy is. It’s not other believers. We need to stop attacking each other. We can agree to disagree on some of these doctrinal variations. Don’t get distracted. That’s what they want!
While the Bible does not explicitly say, “Do not argue over scripture,” it does provide guidance on how believers should approach disagreements and disputes within the body of Christ.
Here are a few relevant passages:
1. 2 Timothy 2:23-24
“Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.”
2. Titus 3:9
“But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless.”
3. James 1:19-20
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”
4. Romans 14:1
“Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters.”
These passages emphasize the importance of avoiding pointless arguments and quarrels over non-essential matters of faith. Instead, believers are encouraged to be kind, patient, and quick to listen, seeking unity and understanding within the body of Christ.
While healthy discussions and debates about scripture can be beneficial for learning and growth, it is crucial to maintain a spirit of humility, love, teachability, and respect towards one another, recognizing that unity in Christ is paramount. People are always trying to pull me into these different arguments. I’m not going to do it. I am too focused on soul-winning and the real battle at hand. If they want to have a kind discussion, I would love to speak with them. This is not the world, we are the Body of Christ and we need to act like Christ!
